Different Types of Zippers: Coil, Plastic, Metal & Invisible Zippers

In lesson #2, let’s overcome your fear of sewing with zippers by learning about the different types of zippers.

So, we’ve talked about the two styles of zippers and identified the parts of a zipper. Now let’s look at the different kinds or types of zippers.

Different Types of Zippers

For the purpose of this tutorial, we’re gonna look at four different types of zippers:

1. Coil Zippers
2. Plastic Zippers
3. Metal Zippers
4. Invisible Zippers

Let’s take a look at each type and the purpose of each, so you’ll know when to use what type of zipper in your next sewing project!

Coil Zippers

Coil zippers are lightweight and flexible. The teeth are made from thin pieces of plastic that have a coil like appearance. These teeth are actually stitched to the zipper tape with thread.

They are perfect for sewing into curved seams. They are also very resistant to being pulled apart while closed. This makes coil zippers great for applications such as bags or luggage.

However, coil zippers teeth are thin and are prone to getting bent or damaged over time.

Plastic Zippers

Plastic zippers have teeth that are made from molded plastic. The teeth are wide and actually look like interlocking pieces of a puzzle. The teeth are molded onto the zipper tape instead of being sewing onto the tape.

Molded plastic zippers are strong and not subject to damage like the coil zippers. They are great for outerwear. And since they’re made from molded plastic, they are best used in projects with straight seams only.

Although they are strong, they do have a tendency to pull apart and separate while closed. Thus, they are not a good choice for bags or luggage.

Metal Zippers

The Metal Zippers, as their name implies, have teeth that are made of metal. The metal teeth are actually clamped onto the zipper tape. Metal zippers and the strongest and most durable zippers.

They also come in a large assortment of colors and even different types of metals. These metal zippers are perfect for bags, outerwear, pants and for projects that might get a lot of wear and tear.

Just remember that these zippers are heavier than plastic zippers and there are some applications where they just aren’t practical. They also don’t hold up well to outdoor conditions, such as rain.

Invisible Zippers

Invisible Zippers are sometimes called Concealed Zippers. With Invisible Zippers, the teeth are actually curled underneath the tape which hides them from view. The slider on an Invisible Zipper is usually very narrow also, which allows it to lay or hide within a seam.

When sewn into your project, an Invisible Zipper will literally disappear into the seam. This makes it perfect for garments.

Learn More About Zippers

Like I said, this is lesson #2 in the zipper series from Hooked on Sewing. First, we learned all about the different parts of a zipper in this post about the Anatomy of Zippers.

Then today we learned about the different types of zippers. Next we’ll learn how to sew a zipper.

But, don’t let that scare you because sewing zippers is really simple once you know how and learn a few tips!

Sewing with Zippers

1

Anatomy of a Zipper

Read More

2

How to Shorten a Zipper

Learn how to shorten a zipper that is too long. Shortening zippers is something you will do time and again.

Read the Guide

3

How to Sew Zipper Tabs

Read More

Sewing Projects with Zippers

Stay tuned for some sewing tutorials that include using zippers. By the time we get through with this zipper series, you’ll be a pro and wonder why on earth you were ever intimidated or afraid to sew a zipper.

Here are a couple of sewing projects with zippers you can get started on now:

• Learn to Sew a Small Lined Zipper Pouch
• Sew a Fabric and Clear Vinyl Zipper Pouch