Hi Everyone! Let's talk about - Sewing with zippers! Let's be honest, Zippers can be pretty terrifying! But rest assured, practice makes perfect! Early on, hook and loop tape was my go to closure, I let my fear of sewing with zippers influence my decision for the best way to finish my garment. But after a bit of practice, I can now say a zipper closure is definitely the way to go (when appropriate, of course!) There are still many times when snaps or buttons may be best, or a thin piece of hook and loop tape is the most practical (especially for little hands). My hope is that after this course, you will no longer fear zippers and have the confidence to sew one into your doll garment when desired!
So let's dive into this topic and take a look at the different types and installation methods!
In the videos posted below, I share with you an overview of the month long topic, a quick look at the zipper foot, and then a hands on tutorial for inserting and sewing an invisible zipper into your garment. I hope this will encourage and inspire you to try something new!
Pattern Overview (designs with invisible zippers):
- Liberty Jane Hello Oscar
- Liberty Jane Opening Night
- Liberty Jane Abbey Road A-Line Dress
- Liberty Jane Cosplay Day Dress
- Liberty Jane Blossom Dress
- Liberty Jane Sheath Dress
Resources:
Invisible zippers can be found just about anywhere, and there's usually a large variety of colors available! You can buy any length, and shorten them to the desired length very easily. If you like to shop online, check out these sources for invisible zippers:
- Homesew.com
- Amazon.com
- JoAnn Fabrics (in store and online)
- Hobby Lobby (in store and online)
- Fabric.com
- Etsy
Week One task:
- Watch the videos and practice on one of the suggested patterns or a pattern that you already have :)
Next Tuesday - Week 2: Separating Zippers...
12 Comments
Great information. I may try invisible zippers in doll clothes. Thanks.
@Terri There are a few jackets and hoodies that use separating zippers, pjs and the half zip hoodie that use closed end zippers, but I don’t think there are any dresses. This will be a good one to show how to change a hook and loop tape closure to use a zipper instead!
@Joni @ Leticia – The code looks to be working fine. Just a reminder that it is valid for Liberty jane Brand patterns only :)
@Leticia, thank you – was thinking I was doing it wrong :)
@Joni Jones, Yes I’m also having an issue with the discount code at check out. Code is not being accepted for pattern check out. I’ll try contacting their customer service.