How to Replace a Zipper

You've worn that pair of jeans forever, and they're your favorite pair. But now the zipper is broken, and you can no longer wear them. You don't have to throw them out. You can replace the zipper and save your favorite jeans. These simple directions tell you how to replace a zipper.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Zipper
• Seam ripper
• Needle
• Thread
• Scissors
• Pins
• Sewing machine
• Zipper foot

1. Use a seam ripper to remove the old zipper. Be careful not to disturb the decorative stitching on the outside of the placket.

2. Measure the old zipper. It's going to be hard to find the exact size. Find one that's just slightly longer than the old zipper.

3. Make a bar tack at the end of the zipper you are using to replace the old one. With a needle and thread, sew back and forth across the zipper. Cut the zipper below the bar tack.

4. Working from the right side of the jeans, place the zipper in the jeans in its normal position. Fold the top fabric tab down. Pin or hand baste the zipper in place.

5. Replace the regular sewing foot with the zipper foot. Stitch close to the zipper. Remember to backstitch on both ends.

6. Turn the pants wrong side out. Pin or baste the other half of the zipper in place. Use a needle and thread to sew the zipper into position. Use tiny stitches to sew only through one layer of fabric. If done properly, you can't see your stitches on the outside.

7. Sew another bar tack. This time connect the bottom of the zipper with the top flap. This is where the zipper gets the most pull when you use it. The bar tack strengthens the stitching.