Many years ago when invisible zippers first appeared, I put them in several dresses. After a short time, they popped open at the waist. I was thin then and although the dresses were form fitting, they were NOT unreasonably tight. I replaced the zippers and never again used an invisible zipper where stress might occur.
I feel certain that I inserted them correctly.
Did they improve the design? Are they now more reliable? Did I miss something during a hot flash?
I haven’t wanted to take the risk and try them again. Am I the only one who had this problem?
Replies
I recently inserted a brand new invisible zipper. When I gently pulled on the seam to evaluate my work, the zipper popped open. I hated to redo all the work, but I didn't see any other choice than "unsewing" that zipper, purchasing another one and inserting it. I gave it a "pull test" before inserting it, and plan to do this from now on. I suspect the first zipper had some manufacturing flaw and was never going to be anything but a problem. In fact, on close inspection, the zipper teeth looked a little off at one point in the zipper, which happened to be where the zipper would split with the least bit of stress...
Outside of that experience, invisible zippers haven't given me trouble since I started using the technique for inserting them I found in Threads...
Marijke
I have never had a problem with an invisible zipper failing - even if I provided it reasonable stress. I have been getting my zippers from Solo Slide Fasteners, http://www.soloslide.com. I stopped buying zippers in fabric stores initially because they never had the right color/length. I think I found this vendor in one of the Thread's issues. Anyway, the have an excellent range of colors in all standard lengths, and they are very inexpensive (less than $1.00 for a dress length zipper). I must have used about 15 of their zippers without a problem. They have other sewing notions as well and in general everything is very reasonably priced.
From what I'm hearing, I guess I will try using an invisible zipper again. When I tried them before they were VERY new. Maybe there is some subtle change.
Thanks for responding.
I work in a bridal shop. Invisible zippers fail all the time. I have read recently though, that one brand of invisible zip is better than another. Solo Slide must sell the "good" one!
I have found invisible zippers to have improved 100% since introduction. I also test the zipper before inserting and put hooks and eyes inside, especially on a bridal or formal. I can't wait to try the Solo source. Galey
You're definitely not the only one. I've just recently gotten back into sewing and made a fitted sundress using an invisible zipper.
The first time I wore the dress the zipper split open! I had to remove it and put in a regular zipper. The dress fit perfectly and I have a lot of purchased clothes with them in that have never had a problem.
I am going to try the Solo zipper website and see if I have better luck with them. I sure do like the "invisible" look they produce.
I have noticed, the kind you buy to insert yourself, or the invisible zippers on ready to wear are not the quality of the other types. But I suppose that is what you deal with for the look. I have replaced invisible zippers in ready to wear that were not very old at all.
I don't like working with them, but I do, if it's something that really needs to be invisible. I am sure the best advise you got was to inspect the zipper before sewing.
I use invisible zippers in every pencil skirt I make in wool and in linen. I have never had a problem, and think it may be that the skirts fit perfectly to my body so really there is no strain. They give a fantastic finish and are easy, I don't even bother with any hook or button or any other closure at the top. And I have a bit of a tummy. So I sugggest look to the fitting of the garment, and the darts.. the invisibles are worth it!
I've been reading these posts with some surprise. I have been using invisible zippers almost exclusively (except for fly front pants) in my custom sewing business for the past seven years and have never had one fail. This includes garments of all types, including skirts, dresses, tops and even several form-fitting wedding gowns. I do test them before purchasing, but primarily to see that they open and close smoothly. Maybe its just that I've been fortunate in purchasing from a source that stocks a decent brand. I firmly believe the old adage that "you get what you pay for", particularly with notions that receive any stress.
I would use a awist stay in a close fitting dress with a waist line . The zip should be a closure and not take any stress.
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