Hi Everyone! Let's talk about - Separating Zippers! If you want to add a higher level of authenticity to a doll garment, then this is the added detail that will make that difference. Tiny separating zippers really make the garment look like a miniature version of the real thing. There are two basic types of separating zippers - nylon coil teeth and metal teeth/pull. The plastic (nylon) style is easier to find and comes in a variety of colors and lengths. It's fairly easy to shorten as well. The metal teeth version will usually need to be bought from a seller that has them specifically for doll scale items. The version you can find at a regular retail shop usually has a pull that is too large (doll scale is size 3 or smaller). In the past we sold these types of zippers through Pixie Faire, but now we've created resource list (posted below) of a few different places you can find them online. Home Sew is carrying the same color and style selection that was formerly available on Pixie Faire, as well as a variety of other notions that recommend. Zipper that Doll carries both plastic and metal, but in a different selection of colors. They also carry a tiny closed end zipper which is great for the smaller dolls (just be sure to purchase the zipper stops!). Zip it (on easy) carries a great selection of colors for both separating and invisible zippers.
In the video posted below, I share with you a method for installing a separating zipper into a lined jacket as well as an example of shortening a metal teeth zipper. I hope this will encourage and inspire you to try something new!
Pattern Overview (designs with invisible zippers):
Zip It (Etsy shop) Invisible and Separating - (note - their metal teeth zippers are too large for doll items)
Week One task:
Watch the videos and practice on one of the suggested patterns or a pattern that you already have :)
Next Tuesday - Week 3: Adding a zipper closure...
4 Comments
Colleen
December 29, 2017
Did you mean Wawak.com ?
PamelaW
November 25, 2017
I’d love tips on keep the stitching consistently close at the top and bottom of the zipper. A lot of the zippers have a plastic coating these days on the zipper tape fabric. (especially at the bottom of separating zippers). When I get to this point on a zipper, I often meet considerable increase in resistance with the sewing needle or the feed-dogs or presser foot push the zipper tape further away so stitches are not even with those above it.
Bettie
November 15, 2017
I was finally able to download the videos. I followed directions, after I typed the password it disappeared. What to do! So I retyped the password using the caps lock and low and behold the videos appeared. Oh the things these computers want you to do
Margaret(Peggy)
November 14, 2017
Nice awak.com another company You can request a catalogue zipper Lots of good sewing items ,reasonable prices
Colleen
December 29, 2017
Did you mean Wawak.com ?