A Zipper Tale

This was my first zipper. I found great support over at Margene's, and also in Nancy Wiseman's The Knitter's Book of Finishing Techniques - a book I refer to often. Click on each photo for detail:

Prior to blocking, single crochet a stabilizing row up the front. Then block sweater front to zipper length.

Margene's suggestion to place pins or some sort of marker at even increments on both sides. Then, when you pin zipper you are sure sides are lining up.

I placed zipper pins parallel to zipper, getting fabric close but not too close to zipper.

As per Nancy Wiseman, baste (shown here), then back stitch on wrong side and stitch down on right side. There are excellent illustrations in her book.

Margene's suggestion to sew ribbon to the back really gives a finished look. I found a great selection of ribbons at JoAnn!

Not surprisingly, the biggest challenge for this novice seamstress was the zipper placement, pinning and basting. Once the zipper is stabilized, the stitching was tedious, but not difficult. At first I thought "Well, I'll never do this again!". But in the end it all came together. I can see all the imperfections that I would like to improve upon for my next one. I wish I had chosen a darker color for my first effort because I think it would hide the mistakes a little better.

Oh, and don't waste your time hunting down a zipper in the shops! Go right to the Zipper Stop!

Comments

[annie]

Thanks for the lesson. I love the close-up pictures of the jacket because they show off the beautiful color. Great work.

[Bliss]

Ooooh, perfect timing - wish me luck! I have Nancy Wiseman's book and was reading it this afternoon in preparation. I had wondered about the edge since there was no facing. I had considered attaching I-cord, but think I will just go with the crocheted edge. Yours looks really terrific. Thanks for sharing such wonderful up close pics of your zipper journey. I think I can...I think I can...

[margene]

Great explaination on how to do the zipper. Your pictures are great and really show that it isn't that hard to do and can be done with a little effort. You're a great teacher!

[Kim]

Great pictures and tips---thank you!

Thank you also for your cheerful posts and words of encouragement on the Everyday Cardi blog---you've helped make this project a real joy!

[sandy]

NIce job! You should be a teacher! :) I never have put in a zipper yet. But when I do, I'll be back here with bated breath!

[Chris]

Just Gorgeous! Great job. Looks great on you.

[monica]

Thanks for the zipper lesson. I'm feeling more confident about sewing one in now.

[Lorette]

This looks great! Thanks for posting this...I've avoided patterns with zippers, but maybe I'll get the nerve to tackle it after this. Love your blog!

[Term Paper]

I had considered attaching I-cord, but think I will just go with the crocheted edge.

[Account Deleted]

oooh Great explaination nice www.hangsangaccessories.com