Zippers come in all shapes and sizes. Using our Zipper Size Chart, it's easy to find the one that fits your project! Learn all about zipper sizing and compare zipper sizes for yourself with our printable Zipper Size Chart. Looking for zippers for your next sewing venture? WAWAK is your one-stop shop for all the pro-line zippers a sewer could need.
ZIPPER SIZES
If you've worked with zippers before, you've probably noticed that each zipper has a numeric label: #3, #5, #8, or another similar designation. This number represents the zipper's size. But how is it determined, and what exactly does it mean? It's actually pretty simple—zipper sizing is based on the width of the zipper teeth in millimeters. The digit representing the zipper size is simply the closest standard size to the actual width, meaning the zipper size tells you approximately how wide the zipper teeth are in millimeters. Lower numbers denote thinner (lighter) zippers, and higher numbers identify thicker (heavier) zippers.
In general, the zipper size you choose for a project should correspond to the weight of your fabric and the project's scale. However, you can always experiment with different zipper sizes to meet specific design or functionality requirements. Let's take a closer look at the range of zipper sizes and some of the things you can do with them!
Lightweight Zippers
On the smaller end of the scale are #2 and #3 zippers. These are some of the lightest zippers available, often used for smaller or lighter projects. Some of the most popular zippers in these sizes are Invisible Zippers, which have hidden teeth when zipped and often serve as a closure for dresses, formal wear, and home decor due to their subtle appearance. Lightweight Non-Separating Zippers have similar uses in formal wear as a closure for dresses and skirts as well as smaller bags like purses, clutches, or small handbags. For projects that require a small zipper that separates, like robes, children's jackets, or sports clothing, try Lightweight Jacket Zippers.
Medium-Weight Zippers
For projects using medium-weight fabrics, #4.5 and #5 zippers are your best bet. Medium-Weight Non-Separating Zippers are the standard choice for most pants and jeans and are applicable for heavier skirts or dresses. Medium-Weight Bag Zippers are perfect for handbags, backpacks, totes, luggage, and other bag styles. For garments that open completely such as jackets, parkas, zip-up sweatshirts, or vests, Medium-Weight Jacket Zippers are a common choice.
Heavy-Weight Zippers
Up next are the heavy-hitters, #7-#10 zippers. These zippers are typically chosen for larger projects, outdoor gear, and heavy clothing. Heavy-Weight Non-Separating Zippers are applicable for things like boots, outdoor textiles, large bags, and upholstery. For heavy jackets, workwear, and outdoor wear, a Heavy-Weight Jacket Zipper can zip it up. Or, try Sleeping Bag & Tent Zippers for outdoor applications like camping gear and Upholstery Zippers for indoor or outdoor furniture.
HOW TO MEASURE ZIPPER SIZE
If you already have a zipper but aren't sure of its size, it's easy to figure it out! Let's start with a quick tip that might save you from needing to take any measurements: take a look at the zipper slider. You can frequently find a zipper's size marked on the bottom of the zipper slider (the flat side). Look for a number or number-letter combination to determine the zipper's size. For example, on a #5 Nylon Coil Zipper, the slider might say "5" or "5C."
But maybe your zipper is missing a slider, or the size isn't marked on the slider—no problem! Since zipper size is based on millimeters, it's easy to measure it yourself. Measure straight across the width of the zipper teeth in millimeters; your zipper's size is the closest standard zipper size to that measurement. That's all there is to it!
ZIPPER SIZE CHART
Check out our Zipper Size Chart below for a quick reference sheet of all the things we've covered in this post, and to help you visualize the actual size of different zipper gauges. Download or print this chart to save it for future reference, and head to WAWAK to find the perfect zipper for your next creation!
Use this handy graphical size chart to compare zipper sizes.
