Replies

1. 
   joanfitzu | Aug 30, 2006 08:56pm | #1

   Put the zipper in by hand, using a prickstitch (tiny backstitch). The zipper will look better and lay flat. I have found putting zippers in by hand sometimes doesn't take as long as by machine. I like the way they look especially on dressy fabrics, the stitches blend into the fabric better than machine stitches because they are small.

1. 
   Anja | Aug 30, 2006 10:46pm | #2

   Thanks for the response, do you sew your zippers just into the seam allowance or do you topstitch through all layers or both?

1. 
   joanfitzu | Aug 31, 2006 03:16am | #3

   I sew it by hand the same way I would with the machine, I go through the outer layer, the seam allowance and the zipper tape. I think once you put a zipper in by hand you will be happy with the results, and they don't take much time.

2. 
   SAAM | Aug 31, 2006 07:02am | #4

   You may want to also put strips of light weight interfacing onto both sides your seam allowance to stabilize the fabric.

3. 
   mygaley | Aug 31, 2006 08:42am | #5

   Thinking about hand-picked zippers reminded me of a Threads photo of a zipper that used tiny color-matched beads to emphasize the back seamline. They were included in the seam that held the zipper and were about 1 bead-width apart on both sides of the zipper. A very smart detail. Galey

1. 
   MaryinColorado | Sep 04, 2006 07:47am | #7

   I love that idea.  The beadwork sounds subtle but classy.  You always sound so experienced and helpful with your answers.  Thank You!  Mary

2. 
   mem | Aug 31, 2006 08:55am | #6

   try putting a light fusable interfacing on that part of the seam..

3. 
   mrsdwight | Sep 04, 2006 01:20pm | #8

   I just used invisible zippers in crepe back satin for my daughter and her little girl. Except for the pulls, they disappeared completely into their seams.