How to Put a Zipper Onto a Purse Top Using a Casing
Whether buffing up a favorite old handbag or going the extra mile with a newly handmade purse, sewing a zipper onto a purse's top while using a casing can be a simple project that calls for a few steps and a little patience. The modern zipper, which can be found on a variety of garments, shoes and accessories, is a practical solution for purses and clothing that was created in 1913 by Gideon Sundback, a Swedish electrical engineer. The design of two rows of small, straight metal pieces that interlock using a sliding guide is simple and has stayed relatively the same since its invention.
Things You'll Need
- Purse
- Tape measure
- Pen
- Paper
- Bias tape, 1/2 inch wide
- Scissors
- Sewing pins
- Zipper
- Needle
- Thread
Instructions
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1
Turn the purse inside out. Use the tape measure to measure the length of the side of the purse opening. Write down the measurement.
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2
Lay the 1/2-inch-wide bias tape in front of you. Measure the bias tape the necessary length of the purse's opening. Cut two pieces of bias tape equal to the length of the purse's opening using the scissors. Place each piece along the long edge of the purse opening, and pin down with the sewing pins.
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3
Sew the bias tape to each side of the purse opening approximately 1/2 inch from the opening, using the needle and thread. The stitches should be tight, medium stitches that will later support the weight of the zipper. This will serve as the casing for the zipper.
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4
Unzip the zipper to the bottom. It will form a V-shape. The length of the zipper should equal the length of the purse opening. Place the left edge of the zipper along the edge of the bias tape that is on the left side of the purse opening. Because the purse is turned inside out, the zipper should be upside down.
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5
Sew the left side of the zipper to the edge of the bias tape. Start the stitches from one side and work to the other. The stitches should be small and secure. Double-check for any loose stitches, and correct before tying and cutting the thread.
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6
Turn the purse right side out. Align the right side of the zipper with the right side of the purse's bias tape. Sew along the edge equal to the left side using the same kind of stitching. Double-check for loose stitches and correct.
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7
Cut any loose threads and check the strength of the stitching. Correct if necessary. Check the zipper for performance by zipping from side to side.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Measure the length of the purse opening before purchasing a zipper, to ensure the right size.
References
- Photo Credit Photos.com/Photos.com/Getty Images
