How to Replace a Zipper on My Jeans When the Zip Pull Has Separated From One Side of the Zipper

Jean zippers are usually thicker and stronger than regular clothing zippers, so be sure to buy a replacement that is strong enough for your project.

Few things are more unnerving than the zipper on your favorite jeans popping from the track. The good news is you don't have to say goodbye to your denim blues if you're savvy with a needle and thread. It is usually convenient to replace the entire zipper because when the zip pull comes free from the track, the zipper teeth are either damaged or there is a tear in the seam at the bottom.

Things You'll Need

• Scissors
• Seam ripper (stitch ripper)
• Sewing machine or needle and thread
• Zipper

Instructions

Replacing the Zipper

1. 

   Denim is typically stitched twice to ensure a strong hold, so consider reinforcing your zipper as it will be subject to a lot of tugging.

   Use a seam ripper to gently remove the seam that holds the zipper in place. To avoid misshaping or permanently damaging your jeans, don't remove the waistband stitches. When you reach the bottom of the fly, carefully cut the remaining part of the zipper out. It's best not to remove the bottom stitches if you are inexperienced because they are difficult to restitch.

2. Use the original zipper as a guide to make a mark with a sewing pen on the new zipper where the bottom stop is on the original. Replacement zippers are generally sold at longer lengths than you need.

3. Use the zigzag stitch function on a sewing machine to sew across the zipper a few times, until the stitch is thick enough to serve as a stop for the zip pull. This works best if the stitch width is wide and the length is short. If you're using a needle and thread, you can tightly whip-stitch it instead, as long as you're sure to go over it a few times to strengthen it. Trim the zipper below the stitch.

4. Insert the zipper between the denim where you extracted the old zipper on the part that underlies the fly. Use straight pins or very loose stitches to hold it in place. If you are using a sewing machine, switch to a zipper foot and stitch the zipper. Close the jeans and pin the other side of the zipper.

5. Use a needle and thread to stitch the other side of the zipper in place, being careful to only penetrate the inner layer of fabric to prevent the stitches from showing on the outside. Use small, tight stitches to firmly hold the zipper in place. To finish, stitch the bottom of the zipper in place using tight, small stitches. It's important to reinforce this area securely to prevent it from coming loose from constant tugging.

Tips & Warnings

• If you're using a needle and thread, wear a thimble to help get the needle through the fabric. Because denim is so thick, you may need an extra-sharp needle.

References

• ThreadsMagazine.com; How to Replace a Broken Zipper; 2008
• Catalogs.com; How to Replace a Broken Zipper; Julie Henry