Jean zips

Most metal jean zippers have a lock at the top.  If you lift the slider up the zip will come down, and if you push the slider down against the zip then the zip will lock into place.  Sometimes the slider can flip up, and then of course the zip will unzip which can be very embarrassing for the person wearing the jeans.

I have had people bring in jeans with this type of zip and ask for it to be replaced, not realizing that the slider locks.  Once I show them how it works, they take the jeans away and make sure it is always locked.

People with a tummy can run into trouble here if the lock opening becomes a bit loose.  Any stress on the zip could cause it to undo.

If you do replace a jean zip, use two thread colours to match the colour on the jeans.  An orange and a kharki colour will work beautifully to create that orange/kharki colour.

Also always use a 90/14 Jean needle when replacing a jean zip.

If you have my book Genie Clothing Alteration Secrets Revealed there is a full section on replacing trouser zips and jean zips with illustrations.  For those of you who don't have the book, I have an eBook which has great illustrations.  Most alteration shops charge around AUD$25 to replace a zip.  My ebook is AUD$12.95 and once you get the hang of it, you will always do your own zip replacements.

Happy altering
Judith aka genie