There are different types of zip tapes and zip pulls you can choose according to your projects needs. Here I will go into the different ones and what they are used for!
The three main types are Nylon Coil or Spiral, Vislon (also known as Molded Chunky Tooth) and Metal zippers. There are different size zip tapes that are measured not by the length but the width of the track i.e 3mm, 5mm, 8mm, 10mm wide. You simply match zip pull size available in :3# 5# 8# 10# to the zip tape!
COIL ZIP
Coil zip or chain are more FLEXIBLE and smoother running than 'chunky' zip. They function very well around corners on both curve planes. These plastic zips are available in version of the non separating or open ended zips . They are available in many different sizes :3# 5# 8# 10#
MOULDED TOOTH ZIP
Chunky (moulded tooth) zip are often colled 'Tooth' zip or chain. Consists of INDIVIDUAL teeth that are moulded onto the zip tape. Chunky zip features a large, clear tooth, making it more powerful than an ordinary plastic zip. They are available in many different sizes :3# 5# 8#
METAL ZIP TAPE
Metal zip is a strong and highly aesthetic zip or chain. They are available in nickel, antiqe brass, brass, gold, aluminum. They are available in many different sizes :3# 5# 8#
OPEN OR CLOSED ZIPS
There are different types of zips that are used depending on your latex design needs. Open ended zips are often used in jackets where your need to fully open a garment. They are also useful if you want to open the bottom of a skirt but not all the way. A closed end zip is used in bags, hoods and often catsuits or dresses.
CONTINUOUS OR PRE CUT LENGTH ZIPS
The most common zips used in latex catsuits and more are continuous zips that come in a continuous length that can be cut to suit your latex project. This is very convenient when you need a long 1-2 meter length. You apply zip top stopper and bottom stopper to finish your zip so the zip slider doesn't come off when pulled. You can also use a needle and thread to wrap around the end of a zip, apply some liquid latex, then apply a thin piece of latex around the top of the zip to seal.
ZIP STOPPER
When using a continuous zip or if you are repairing a garment, you will be using metal pieces called Zip Stop, Zip bottom, Zip Topper and Zip pins. A "zip stop topper" is used at the top of the zip so the pull doesn't come flying off when it gets to the end of the zip tape. A "zip stop bottom" is used to create a "closed end" zip that prevents the zip pull from coming off the bottom of the tape. A "zip pin" is used to create an "open end zip" seen on jackets, that allow a garment to fully open and close. The zip bottom, zip top and zip chains come in various metal colours to suit your project and sizes for your 3# 5# 8# 10#. You will need needle nose pliers and super glue to secure the zip stopper in place on your zip tape.
ZIP PULL
When purchasing a zip for your latex project, you MUST buy a zip pull that is for the type of zip chain i.e. Coil, Moulded Tooth, Metal, Continuous. You can buy various zip pull styles including decorative styles to add a unique look to your latex project such as a latex bag. The most used zips for a Catsuit is a "Auto locking zip" which as a mechanism the locks the zip in the place it stops. This is particularly useful in tight latex such as latex boots or catsuits that will have a considerable strain on the latex making it more likely to pull. I prefer to use a good brand such as "YKK" auto locking zips for their reliability when making latex catsuits.
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