zipper and Basic types of zipper

Zippers:

These fasteners are available in a wide variety of colors, lengths and types. Several type of speciality zippers are available. Three basic types of zipper are conventional, separating and invisible zippers. All zippers consist of either a chain of metal or plastic teeth or a synthetic coil joined to fabric tapes. Chains and coils are made in many weights and sizes, spirals of polyester or nylon. Coil zippers are lighter in weight, and usually more flexible, than chain zippers. Unlike metal, they will not rust, and they are available in more colors. Metal zippers are less affected by heat.

Zipper tapes are woven, generally of cotton or a blend of cotton and polyester.

Some tapes for coil zippers are stabilized nylon or polyester knit. Zippers are opened and closed by means of a slider or runner with a handle like tab that moves it up and down the coil or chain. Top and bottom stops keep the slider from running off the zipper with metal teeth.

a. Conventional zipper:

These zippers, whether made with exposed teeth (chain) or coil, open at the top and are held together at the bottom. They come in more different styles than any other zipper type. Depending upon ;the garment design, application may be by the centered, lapped, exposed, or fly method.

b. Separating zipper:

 Separating zippers are made to open at both top and bottom, permitting the zipper opening to separate completely. Although used mainly on jackets, they can really be applied to any garment with a completely opened front. Also, dual reversible and two-way zippers that zip from the top and from the bottom are aailable for jumpsuits and similar garments. A centered application is the method generally used.

c. Invisible zipper:

These zippers are the newest type of zipper. As the name implies, they are structured differently from other zippers and are in a special way so that they disappear into a seam. When properly applied, neither the stitching nor the zipper teeth or coil is visible on the outside of the garment. Invisible zippers are used principally in skirts and dresses but they can go, in general, wherever a conventional zipper might be used, except in a trousers.

Other types of zipper include two way zipper, trouser zipper and decorative zipper with large teeth and a pull ring.