There are so many different types of zippers out there it can make your head spin! Here a little guide to help you understand the different coil types and sizes in zippers.
The first thing you will need to know is there are 3 different types of teeth/coils- nylon coil, plastic molded, and metal.
Nylon Coil zippers consist of a continuous coil chain made from nylon. They are very flexible and most commonly used in fashion (skirts, dresses, etc.), pouches and bags. If the coil is located on the back of the zipper instead of the front it is an Invisible Zipper.
Metal zippers consist of individual metal teeth. They are typically made from nickel, brass, aluminum and manganese. They are available in several finishes such as gold, antique gold, black oxidized, brass, nickel aluminum and specialty finishes such as the Excella Rainbow Teeth Zippers. They are often used in jeans, leather items, jackets, sweatshirts,and bags.
Plastic Molded (or Sports) zippers have individual plastic teeth that fit together like puzzle pieces.They are very durable and commonly used in outerwear, sports clothes and equipment (gym bags, etc.), and outdoor goods.
Each tooth size/coil is available in different widths. The widths are measured in millimeters. The higher the number, the wider your teeth will be.
Here is an example of the plastic molded zippers and their different size teeth.
And another example, this time with nylon coil zippers:
The higher the number, the wider the coil. It's that simple!
I hope this helps you determine the right zipper for your project. Please feel free to ask any questions!
Hi,
ReplyDeleteCould anyone let me know the definition of Fastner Class of Zipper?
Thank you for the great information! I make a lot of pillows and have started putting more zippers in them.
ReplyDeleteThis is a great resource. Maybe you can help me with a problem. I purchased bulk nylon zipper that came with 12 sliders but I need more. There are no markings on zipper material or sliders. I see some sliders available for sale but I don't know what size to get. Can you help? Thanks!!
ReplyDeleteIm having the exact same issue as "Cinth"
ReplyDeleteRE: This is a great resource. Maybe you can help me with a problem. I purchased bulk nylon zipper that came with 12 sliders but I need more. There are no markings on zipper material or sliders. I see some sliders available for sale but I don't know what size to get. Can you help? Thanks!!
Measure the width of the closed zipper without the zipper tape.
Delete#3 coil = .165 in≈ 5/32 in
#5 coil = .275 in≈ 17/64 in
#5 tooth = .225 in≈ 7/32 in
#7 tooth = .25 in≈ 1/4 in
#8 coil = .284 in≈ 9/32 in
#8 tooth = .3125 in≈ 5/16 in
#10 coil = .417 in≈ 27/64 in
#10 tooth = .335 in≈ 11/32 in
Manufacturers produce zippers by the billions each year, however the gadget wasn't constantly such a success. In the early stages of development, zippers went through design modifications, unsuccessful marketing efforts and a couple of name modifications. Zippers are abundant today due to the tremendous perseverance of financiers, an engineer who offered the product its essential final touches and World War I, when the zipper was standardized for the very first time.
ReplyDeleteMr. Zipper
I have a nice winter jacket with a broken zipper slide. It says "8d" on it. I bought a replacement zip that is a #8, but it's too snug. What did I do wrong?
ReplyDeleteFabulous Resource! Thanks for posting :)
ReplyDeleteCan one use the slider of one type of zipper (eg plastic) to replace a slider of a nylon zipper?
ReplyDeleteVery interesting your work.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for easy to understand guide, helped immensely.
ReplyDeleteWhat is the practical significance of the wider coil? Are wider coils/bigger teeth stronger?
ReplyDelete