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Time: 15 mins

How to shorten a metal zipper
If you want to add some interesting details to a design one of the easiest ways is to add an interesting zip. I love metal zippers, they just instantly change your garment from dull to fabulous!
Metal zippers can be shortened by removing the metal teeth so that you can cut the extra length before sewing into your garment. Once you get the length right you don’t have to worry about breaking needles when sewing across the zipper. All you really need to do this is a set of pliers and some patience, but totally worth it to get that funky look.

Posted by Annie M. • Published 11th March 2016 • See Annie M.'s 7 projects »

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Linda of Nice dress! Thanks, I made it!! favorited How To Shorten A Metal Zipper 03 Jul 14:04
AlterEgo Designs favorited How To Shorten A Metal Zipper 31 Mar 00:42
lin d. favorited How To Shorten A Metal Zipper 12 Mar 05:30
Annie M. published her project How To Shorten A Metal Zipper 11 Mar 09:00

Step 1
Measure the zipper to the length you require and mark the zipper tape. It is tempting to cut the zipper to this point so you don’t have to remove so many teeth but believe me it will be a lot more work. I tried it once and ended up with the tape fraying and a compete mess!
Step 2
Remove the zipper stops with your pliers. Be very careful not to cut through them completely as you will be putting these back on. You just want to slightly open the stops and then gently remove from the zipper.
Step 3
Now remove the zipper teeth one tooth at a time. Don’t be too rough otherwise you’ll end up with a frayed zipper tape. Remove right down to one or two teeth just below your marked line.
Step 4
Using your pliers, put your stops back on just above the teeth. If you are having difficulty putting the stops back on you may have to pry them apart a little bit more. Just be careful here you don’t want to cut through them completely otherwise you’ll be off to the shops to buys some stops.
Step 5
You will squeeze gently to crimp them back on.
Step 6
There you go! Pretty easy really and you can make the length exactly as short or long as you want and be much more flexible with your design.