Zips are an important part of our clothing and accessories. They occasionally break and we have this Facebook post for Simple zip fixes. If the zip is totally broken like the zipper has fallen off or the zip teeth are damaged the best is to add a new zip, which is easy if you use a piggyback technique.
Zip damaged: Try a piggyback zip
We have used the piggyback technique on bags and coats. We also have used it to fit a new zip to jeans or trousers. Your zipper is broken or the teeth on the zip are damaged that they are no longer working then try doing a piggyback zip repair. This is simple and easier project than to unpicking the old zip and attaching a new one.
So instead of un-stitching the original zip, leave in the broken zip in place and sew another zip to the original. The old zip becomes a decorative feature and an anchor for the new zip.
Get a similar length replacement zip to the old one. If you want a hard wearing zip, get a metal zip as they are built to last. See our article on Local Ealing Fabric and Sewing supplies for places locally that sell zips and other sewing accessories.
We have put together instructions for:
- Coats
- Jeans or trousers
- Bags
Coat Piggyback zip repair
Measure the original coat zip and get a zip that’s a similar length to the old zip. If it’s a coat zip, make sure it’s a detachable style of zip, so that you can get in and out of the coat.
When you have the new zip, line up the new zip with the original zip and pin or clip on place in both sides. You also could tack in place temporarily with a contrasting thread.
For sewing it in place you can either do it with a sewing machine with a zip foot or hand sewn with back stitch. The sewing machine is faster but hand sewn will be as effective, it just takes longer. Sew both sides in place. For the top of the zip, fold over the edge and hide behind. Hand sew this in place hidden behind the zip.
The zip should be usable and make the coat usable for many years to come.
Jeans or trousers piggyback zip repair
Measure the zip in the trousers and get another one of a similar length. Get a zip that’s joined at one end. For jeans it worth investing in a metal zip as they are hard wearing.
Turn the jeans inside out and undo the inside of the bottom of the zip so you have a better view of the zip, as shown below. For unpicking, either use an un-picker or a sharp blade to cut these threads. Once released it will be easier to line up the zip so it goes the whole length of the old zip. Doesn’t matter if it’s a little longer as this can be hidden inside.
The project is best hand sewn using back stitch as it’s a strong stitch and will mean the zip in place. If in doubt sew it and down over the same zip area to make sure it’s strong fix. For the top of the zip, we suggest using an un-picker for a small amount of the waistline at the top so you can pop the new zip ends in the seam and sew back the waistband. This means the zip is secure and hidden.
Bag piggyback zip repair
Measure the zip in the trousers and get another one of a similar length. Get a zip that’s joined at one end.
Replacing a zip on a bag is fiddly as usually they curve. So take your time and line the new zip with the old zip.
Pin or tack in place. Then hand-sew using back stitch or you could use a sewing machine with a zip attachment. Depends on how fiddly and accessible the zip is. Then sew both sides in a place and that’s it!
Bag is all good to go.
Want an expert to replace the zip?
If this seems too much then bring in the experts, many local tailors and dry cleaners offer repairs. If its a very technical replacement of a zip, reach out to the Zip Experts who we have had lots of recommendations for www.zipexperts.co.uk
This cargo bike cover had a broken zip. Rather than replace the whole thing, it was taken to the Zip Experts and is now fixed again and on the road.
Ealing Repair Cafe 