So one of my projects for this year is to learn how to perfectly insert an invisible zipper. I stayed away from the evil things for years but everytime I see one in someone else's garment, I promise I'm going to learn to do this myself. After a few false starts with either getting the zipper twisted or having it not really be invisible at all, I finally did it.
A proud moment indeed -- that is until this happened.
This is what happens when I sit, bend or otherwise move in the skirt. I think part of it has to do with the fabric being a stretch suiting but do you have any other ideas about why this is happening?
Yay for invisible zippers! Yours looks very nice. The first couple I inserted gaped like that. I think that it is just that the stitching wasn't quite close enough to the zipper feet. I used to use that plastic zipper foot that C&C makes, but since I invested (a whole 10 bucks) in the foot made for my machine, I don't have this problem anymore. Totally worth it! That looks like it's going to be a very pretty skirt. Can't wait to see!
ReplyDeleteTerrific job on the zipper. I use Sandra Betzina method for making mine.
ReplyDeleteHappy you've taken the plunge into invisible zippers--they're one of my favorite things to sew. I second Kid's response. You did everything right but you just didn't sew close enough to the zipper coil. I have a zipper foot that helps with this but I still have flatten the zipper as I sew to make sure I get in the "groove" next to the coil. It's tricky because you want to get close to the coils but if you get too close you end up sewing over them or if not enough, you get the gaping you're experiencing. I used to have the same problem. Keep at it you're almost there. BTW--love your suiting fabric!
ReplyDeleteDon't quit! I ditto the above comments. Find a food that fits your machine and try, try again.
ReplyDeleteAlso remember to add a little fusible interfacing to the seams before inserting the zipper. It will stabilize the fabric and help with any stretching of the fabric.
ReplyDeletemy two cents worth...press open the zipper as flat as you can and sew as close to the teeth as you can. If you can move your needle over, it helps. You really did do a great job though.
ReplyDeleteI'm sorry it's being tempermental. :(
ReplyDeleteBtw, I have that fabric. I'm excited to see your finished skirt. :)
Hey there .. I am SO glad you posted this problem with your usual great pix close ups. I have returned to sewing after a mere 20 years gap last year. I have had the same problem with the invisible zipper that you had. Now, after reading the comments, I can figure out what I've done wrong. SO THERE! even if that energy zapping ms is dragging you a bit -- your posts and pix help all of us. THANK you and big hugs too!
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