How to Put a Zipper in an English Boot

Tall leather boots can be difficult to pull on and off.

English boots are tall leather boots used for riding. They fit snugly, and sometimes they are difficult to put on, which makes a zipper a useful addition to the boot. Boots used for riding are subject to hard wear, though, and zippers can break. If you use your boots for riding and are not experienced with sewing leather, take the boots to a cobbler to have the zipper professionally installed. Boots worn for fashion don't face the same harsh conditions, so you can safely put in your own zipper and it will wear well over time.

Things You'll Need

• Leather cutter
• Awl or leather needles
• Heavyweight thread
• Chalk or white pencil
• Measuring tape

Instructions

1. Measure the boot where you intend to place the zipper. The zipper should end above the ankle. Purchase a heavy duty zipper in the color and length you need.

2. Place the zipper on the boot where you will install it. Draw a line on the boot with a white pencil. Use a leather cutter to cut the boot on the line to the same length as the zipper. Trim about 1/8 inch around the cut. The space should be the width of the zipper teeth.

3. Place the zipper on the inside of the boot. Glue or tape the zipper in place on the right side of the cut so it won't slide while you are sewing. Start at the bottom of the cut and use the leather needle or awl to stitch up the side of the boot to the top. Once you have finished the first side, repeat the procedure on the other side of the zipper. It will be easier to sew if the zipper is open.

4. Repeat the steps for the other boot.

References

• Kitchen Costuming; Zip It Ghostbusters!; March 1, 2009
• God Save the Queen Fashions: Non-Stretch Boot Covers