Types of Zippers

Zippers are used to join two pieces of fabric. They are used to open and close bags, to adjust the waist on pants or skirts or for purely decorative purposes. The basic zipper design is two strips of fabric tape, each connected to a row of teeth or a coil, with a slider joining the teeth. There are several varieties of zippers, each of which has a different use.

Coil Zippers

Coil zippers are the most commonly used today. They feature two sets of coils, either in a spiral or ladder shape, attached to polyester tape. They slide open more easily than zippers with teeth.

Jeans Zippers

Zippers on jeans are made of metal, usually brass, and have interlocking teeth instead of coils. Their metal construction and teeth make them more durable than coil zippers and therefore more suitable for the wear and tear jeans receive.

Invisible Zippers

Invisible zippers are coil zippers. However, instead of facing out, the coils are behind the fabric tape so that when closed, the zipper is not visible. Invisible zippers are typically found on skirts and dresses as well as on side-zip pants.

Separating Zippers

Separating zippers (also known as open zippers) do not have a box at either end, so they can be completely split apart. They are most often found on jackets or cardigans that completely open in the front.

Double-Slider Zippers

As the name suggests, double-slider zippers have two sliders. This type of zipper is most often found on backpacks and luggage, easing opening and closing.

References

• The ABC of Zip Fasteners
• Zipper