Yesterday we looked at plenty of zip options for your Darlow Bag. But what to do if your favourite zip is too long?
The good news is that shortening zips is a fairly straight-forward process.
Shortening Plastic Zips
Let's start with plastic zips, which are easier to shorten than metal zips. At the bottom of the zip, mark in your required length with tailor's chalk or a disappearing fabric marker pen.
[Image Credit: Craftsy]
Next, you'll need to stitch over the teeth to create a new bottom stopper. This can be done by hand or by machine - your machine should be able to sew directly over the plastic teeth without a problem. And don't worry, this new stopper will be hidden inside your bag once it's been inserted.
Trim away excess zip 1" / 2.5cm below the stitchline.
And you're done! That was easy wasn't it?
Shortening Metal Zips
Now, metal zips require a bit more elbow grease but it is still absolutely possible to shorten them.
For metal zips, remove the excess length from the top.
Starting from the bottom stop, measure the new desired length and mark with a pin. Add another pin 1" / 2.5cm up from that.
Using pliers remove the metal teeth one by one between the two pins. Trim away excess length at the top pin.
[Images Credit: Oliver + S]
Using pliers, remove the zip top stoppers carefully and add them back in at the new zip top.
[Image Credit: Sew This Pattern]
Remember to add fray check to the new zip ends to prevent fraying.
Have you ever shortened a zip before? Share your tips in the comments below!
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