How to Change Broken Zippers?

Answer 1

Wear and tear is the most common reason why zippers break. The wear and tear process usually occurs when you wash the clothes using a washing machine or just repeatedly open and close the zipper during regular wear. Zippers being used in kids shorts are the most susceptible to damage, since kids are naturally playful and active, resulting in a very used zipper. Now, what if you could prevent that damage by repairing the zipper before it becomes impossible to fix? Here are some steps in order to fix your kid’s zipper.

Step 1: Inspect the zipper to see if it can still be repaired and is not badly broken. If the zipper is impossible to repair, it is much better to either take it to an alteration shop or just buy a new one.

Step 2: Use a seam ripper to carefully rip the threads that hold the zipper in place. Be careful not to rip the thread that holds the shorts together. The thread that holds the zipper is often of different color than the rest of the thread used in the short.

Step 3: Cut the broken zipper from the jeans where you cannot use the seam ripper. If possible, try to remain close to the seam to make cutting a lot easier. Once the zipper has been removed, inspect the area to make certain that the front of the shorts is still intact. In case you accidentally damage the thread holding the shorts, you may need to make certain repairs.

Step 4: Measure the new zipper against the old one in order to make sure that it is a perfect fit. After measuring, you need to put a bar tack in. This is just a few stitches at the bottom of the zipper to ensure that the zipper remains in place. You could accomplish this task either by hand-sewing or by using a sewing machine. Hand sewing is advisable, so that you can ensure that the sewing process will be right. The strongest applicable stitch is the zigzag stitch.

Step 5: Fold over the top flap of the zipper and ensure that it is in place on the shorts with pins. Use the sewing machine or your hand to stitch the side of the zipper in place. The next step would be to sew the bottom of the zipper in place via hand sewing. Repeat the same process on the other side of the zipper in order to complete the process.

Repairing a zipper is essential if you want to save money. Always exercise caution when repairing the zipper, because you are using pointed objects, and always be careful not to sew your hands when using the sewing machine.