Zips

Popular Types of Zips

Zips come in many different forms, each with its own zipper mechanism and finish. Choosing the right one makes all the difference to how your garment or project looks and functions.

Metal Zippers 

A classic choice for heavy-duty clothing like jeans and jackets, metal zippers are known for their strength and durability. Featuring visible metal teeth and a sturdy zip slider, they add both function and edge to garments.

Best for: denim, leather jackets, workwear, and outerwear.

Plastic Zippers

Lightweight yet durable, plastic zippers (often with moulded teeth) offer flexibility and ease of use. They come in a variety of colours, making them suitable for everyday clothing or children’s wear where fun and practicality matter.

Best for: raincoats, sportswear, children’s clothing, bags.

Nylon Zippers

One of the most versatile zipper types, nylon coil zips are smooth and flexible, making them a favourite for everything from dresses to bags. Their fine zipper teeth allow them to curve easily, so they’re popular in accessories and home textiles.

Best for: dresses, skirts, cushions, handbags.

Invisible Zippers

Invisible zips are designed to blend into seams, making them almost unnoticeable once sewn in. With their slim zip tape and hidden zipper teeth, they provide a professional finish for formalwear and fitted garments.

Best for: dresses, skirts, evening gowns, cushions.

Exposed Zippers

In contrast to invisible zips, exposed zippers make a design statement. With bold metal teeth and decorative zip pull tabs, they’re chosen deliberately as a feature.

Best for: jackets, handbags, fashion-forward garments.

Two-Way & Separating Zips

Practical for outerwear and sportswear, two-way zippers feature a double-slider mechanism that allows adjustable openings from top or bottom. Separating zips fully detach, making them ideal for coats and hoodies.

Best for: coats, gilets, hoodies, outdoor clothing, sleeping bags.

 

Inspiration & Project Ideas with Zips

Zips can change how a garment fits and moves. Here are some ways our customers use them across sewing projects.

Dressmaking & Everyday Clothing

From trousers to skirts, zips are essential clothing fasteners. An invisible zipper gives skirts or dresses a polished look, while a sturdy metal zip adds toughness to jeans. For tailored blouses or workwear, nylon coil zips keep seams neat and subtle.
Popular uses:

• Invisible zips for fitted dresses and skirts.
  

• Metal zippers for jeans and trousers.
  

• Nylon zips for lightweight jackets and tops.

Outerwear & Performance Wear

Durability matters in outdoor gear like coats and jackets. Heavy-duty plastic zippers resist rain and frequent use, while two-way zips on parkas allow flexibility when sitting or cycling. Exposed zippers are a fashion statement in biker jackets and leatherwear.

Bags & Accessories

Zips are a must for bag closures, whether it’s a cosmetic pouch or a backpack. Nylon zips curve smoothly around seams, while chunky exposed zippers make a bold design choice for totes or purses. For wallets and clutches, opt for lightweight coil zippers for flexibility without bulk.

Home & Craft Projects

Zips can be a clever addition to soft furnishings and crafts. Add a zip fastener to cushion covers for easy removal, use a zip slider for storage pouches, or experiment with decorative zippers on craft organisers. They’re equally useful for costume-making or kids’ dress-up outfits, where ease of use is key.

 

Why Shop Zips at Cheap Fabrics?

• Wide variety of zips for sewing, from invisible zippers to two-way zips and exposed metal styles.
  

• Affordable pricing makes it easy to stock up on sewing accessories and fasteners.
  

• Fast, reliable UK delivery so your garment fastening arrives when you need it.
  

• Trusted supplier with decades of textile experience and thousands of satisfied customers.

Shop online with confidence and find the perfect zip for your next garment, bag, or craft project.

FAQs

Can I use zips for both clothing and crafts?

Yes! Zips are versatile fasteners, perfect for everything from dresses and trousers to bags, cushions, and organisers.

What is the difference between invisible and exposed zips?

Invisible zippers blend into seams for a discreet finish, while exposed zips are designed to be seen, often with decorative metal teeth.

Do you sell separating zips for jackets?

Yes, we stock separating and two-way zips, ideal for coats, hoodies, and outerwear.

Which zips are best for children’s clothing?

Lightweight nylon or plastic zippers are available in fun colours while being easy to use and durable.

Do you deliver zips UK-wide?

Absolutely! We provide fast and reliable UK delivery on all sewing accessories, including zippers.

Explore More from Cheap Fabrics

If you’re shopping for zips and fasteners, you may also like:

• Haberdashery - sewing essentials and accessories for every project.
  

• Trimmings - lace trims, piping, and decorative borders to complement your closures.
  

• Dressmaking Fabrics - from cotton cloth to satin and lace, perfect partners for sewing zippers into garments.