How to Replace a Coldwave Zipper

Match zipper color to garment when possible.

Having a jacket with a broken zipper can make it almost worthless, especially if it's on the Coldwave ski jacket you want to use in the near future. Purchasing a new jacket may not be in your budget at the time. Replacing that zipper might be the most economical approach to solving the problem. It doesn't have to be difficult. With the right tools and some patience, you can have that jacket up and functional again in practically no time.

Things You'll Need

• Pins
• Seam Ripper
• Scissors
• Needle
• Thimble
• Thread
• Sewing machine
• New zipper

Instructions

1. Start by ripping out the old zipper. Use the seam ripper to remove the old zipper by inserting the sharp end between the zipper and the thread attaching it to the garment. Slowly slide the ripper along the seam, cutting carefully. Continue until you have completely freed the zipper from the garment.

2. Lay the new zipper over the garment where it will go. Ensure that the closed zipper is positioned properly. Pin it in place with the flaps at the top of the zipper folded under.

3. Using the zipper foot on your sewing machine, stitch down the left side of the zipper to attach it to the garment. Allow that stitch to continue past the zipper stop at the bottom. Secure the under-folded flap at the top on this side with needle and thread, making sure the stitches do not show on the front of the garment.

4. You may need to hand secure the other side of the zipper using hand-stitching if visible stitching from the front of the garment is not acceptable. If so, carefully hand-stitch to attach the remaining side of the zipper. Do this by creating small linear, in-line stitches along the right side. You may need to do a few rows of this stitching to make sure it is attached securely.

5. If visible stitching is acceptable on your garment, insert the other side under the zipper foot and stitch to attach right side of zipper. Using hand-stitching, secure the under folded flap at the top so that the stitches are not visible from the front of the garment.

6. With the zipper zipped shut, add the final tacking stitch at the bottom of the zipper. Insert the garment into the sewing machine and top stitch over the very bottom of the zipper flaps, through all layers to strengthen and secure the zip stop. Do not try to sew over the metal part of the zipper, as this will break your needle.

References

• Queen of DIY: Replacing a Zipper