We’ve already talked about sewing zippers in a regular seam and sewing invisible zippers so today let’s talk about exposed zippers! These are really easy and can add a fun decorative (and functional) element to any garment!
Exposed zippers are zippers that sit right on top of your garment, for a deconstructed look. An exposed zipper can add an element of interest to an otherwise plain garment. Sometimes I use them to add a pop of unexpected color. If you are going for an industrial look, this is your zipper! They can be really fun!
I recently used an exposed zipper on the Neapolitan dress. The brown zipper in the back is the biggest zipper I could find, and extends all the way to the bottom of the dress. This dress didn’t have a seam before I put the zipper in. I thought it would be a fun way to give the back of the dress a little extra character.
This is what the back looked like before the zipper was added:
To sew an exposed zipper when you already have a seam, there are a few minor adjustments. First, pin the zipper smack dab in the center of the seam. Then, sew it on the same way and use your seam ripper to unpick the seam and open the zipper. The inside of your zipper will have a nice clean finish because of the folded seam allowance.
I added this little exposed zipper to my bias tape neckline blouse. The blouse didn’t really need a closure, but it’s nice to have one just in case. Plus, I just had to compliment the cream and brown with one more neutral, black.
There you have it! Two ways to add an exposed zipper to your projects! Where do you think you’ll put one?
I love how this looks! and I just adore your neapolitan dress! This also seems easy. Thanks for the tutorial! : )
this looks like the zipper for me! BUT i still have no zipper foot. that’s always been my hang up in trying to put in any kind of zipper. i really need to get one.
seriously I hate zippers that get stuck, fun way to make sure that doesn’t happen
That is so creative and cute!!! I would never had thought of that! :]
Hi Kate! I LOVE exposed zippers. I was pretty excited to see this tutorial. Pinned. And also I featured it on my blog today. Come check it out and grab a button if you want! :) http://missloviecreations.blogspot.com/2012/02/my-favorite-things-thursday_23.html
Love this! That dress is so sweet!
Hi Kate! I love, love this neapolitan dress! Are you going to do a tutorial? I’d love to make one of each of my girls. Love you blog!
I am so jealous you have a little girl to sew for. The Neapolitan dress is brilliant!
My little girl is 25 now and I no longer have absolute creative control over what she wears :)
just darling!
Thanks for the tutorial! Not to try this! Saw a link to you tutorial on Pinterest!!
Thank you thank you THANK you for this. For some reason I was not happy about having to insert an exposed zipper on a dress I made but this tutorial made it super clear! Good karma for you!
I love DUH moments.
Thank you!! I am working on some purses to sell and the zipper is driving me crazy. This is THE perfect option.