How To Fix A Broken Zipper

A broken zipper can be a frustrating and inconvenient problem, but it doesn't have to mean the end of your favorite clothing item or accessory. With a little patience and some basic tools, you can learn how to fix a broken zipper and save yourself the expense of replacing it. In this article, we will go over the steps to fix a broken zipper.

Determine the problem

Before you can fix a broken zipper, you need to determine what the problem is. Sometimes, the problem is simply that the zipper pull has come off the track, and other times, the teeth of the zipper may be misaligned or damaged. Identifying the problem will help you determine the best course of action.

Gather your supplies

To fix a broken zipper, you will need a few supplies. These include a pair of pliers, a needle and thread, and a zipper pull. If the zipper teeth are misaligned, you may also need a pair of pliers or a small screwdriver to realign them.

Realign the zipper teeth

If the zipper teeth are misaligned, use a pair of pliers or a small screwdriver to gently realign them. Start at the bottom of the zipper and work your way up, making sure that each tooth is aligned with the one next to it.

Replace the zipper pull

If the problem is simply that the zipper pull has come off the track, you can easily replace it. Take the new zipper pull and slide it onto the end of the zipper track. Use the pliers to crimp the sides of the zipper pull together, securing it in place.

Sew in a new zipper stop

If the problem is that the zipper has come off the track completely, you may need to sew in a new zipper stop. Cut a small piece of fabric or ribbon that is the same color as the zipper. Fold it in half and place it at the end of the zipper track, on the side where the zipper pull is missing. Use the needle and thread to sew the fabric or ribbon in place, creating a new stop for the zipper pull.

Replace the entire zipper

If the zipper is severely damaged, you may need to replace the entire zipper. To do this, carefully remove the old zipper using a seam ripper. Take the new zipper and place it on top of the opening where the old zipper was. Use pins to secure the new zipper in place, and then sew it in using a sewing machine or by hand.

Lubricate the zipper

Once the zipper is fixed, it's important to lubricate it to ensure that it moves smoothly. You can use a bar of soap, a wax candle, or a specialized zipper lubricant to do this. Simply rub the lubricant along the teeth of the zipper, and then zip and unzip the zipper a few times to distribute the lubricant evenly.

In conclusion, fixing a broken zipper is a simple process that can be done with a few basic tools and a little patience. By determining the problem, gathering your supplies, realigning the zipper teeth, replacing the zipper pull or sewing in a new zipper stop, replacing the entire zipper if necessary, and lubricating the zipper, you can fix a broken zipper and save yourself the expense of replacing it. Remember to be gentle when working with zippers, as they can be delicate, and take care of them by lubricating them regularly to ensure they continue to function properly. This is a great diy fix