Here, we've got two zipper-sewing methods: one that's relatively easy and another that adds a touch of complexity.
A little easier:
Put the right sides of the fabric on top of each other. Place the zipper along the edge where you want to attach it. Ensure that the top edge of the zipper extends by ½ inch (1.2 cm) beyond the fabric.
Use a pin to mark the point where your stitching will commence. It's a lot easier if you mark this spot about 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) above the zipper slider.
Start sewing from that marked spot. Don't forget to give it a little backstitching at the beginning to lock things in place.
Fold the fabric along the seams and press them with an iron. This helps to create a neat and flat seam, making it easier to stitch the zipper in place.
5. Pin one side of the zipper to the fabric
seam, making sure the right side of the
zipper faces the right side of the fabric.
6. Use a zipper foot on your sewing
machine to secure the zipper in place. I
suggest gently opening the zipper
teeth with an iron. This makes it easier
to stitch closer to the zipper teeth
without impacting the outcome.
7. Sew all the way down, stopping about
1/4 inch (0.6 cm) above the zipper slider,
and remember to backstitch to secure
it.
8. The reverse side. Repeat the process
with the other side of the zipper.
9. After stitching the zipper on both sides,
the slider of the zipper will be
positioned below the bottom stitch
point.
10. Insert the pull tab through the opening
in the middle to pull it to the outside.
11. This will move the slider to the outside.
12. Your zipper is now complete.
Alternative:
This method allows you to stitch the zipper along its entire length. To prepare for attaching the zipper, mark the starting point where you'll sew the fabric together just above the bottom stop of the zipper.
As you sew and reach the zipper slider, pause and raise the zipper foot.
Carefully pull the slider upwards so that it passes beyond the needle and the foot. Note: if you stitch too close to the teeth of the zipper, it might be difficult to pull the slider up.
Lower the zipper foot and continue sewing until you reach the bottom stop of the zipper.
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