Is your favorite jacket's zipper broken? Replacing a zipper is within everyone's reach, provided you have a sewing machine and a little patience. Here is how to do it.
What you need
- a new separable zipper of the same length (separable zippers are used for jackets);
- a seam ripper, pins or clips, and a sewing machine with a zipper foot;
- thread that matches the color of the jacket.
Steps
- Measure the old zipper from the top stop to the bottom stop – this is the length you need.
- Rip out the old zipper. Carefully remove the stitches on both sides. Take a picture of how it was inserted – it will help you when sewing it back in.
- Clean up any remaining thread.
- Position the new zipper in place of the old one, securing it with pins or clips. Start from the bottom – both halves must be at the same height.
- Zip it up and check if the pockets and seams on both sides align.
- Sew using the zipper foot, 2–3 mm away from the teeth, following the old stitch holes.
- Secure the top end by folding the tape inward.
Tips
- For down jackets, use clips instead of pins so you don't puncture the fabric unnecessarily.
- If you cannot find the exact length, choose a longer zipper – the top can be shortened.
- The color of the metal teeth (gold, silver) should match other metal hardware.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size zipper is for a jacket?
Usually #5 – metal or plastic. For heavy winter jackets – #8.
How long does it take?
About 1–2 hours for a first-timer.
