When it comes to any sewing project, there is always a need for at least one haberdashery product to help you with what you are creating. Fasteners are always a popular choice for our customers and one of the most frequent reasons for people to visit us both online and in our two stores is to Buy Zips from us here at Calico Laine. With so much choice, though, it can be a little confusing in working out what kind of zip you need for your project - fortunately, our friendly sales team is on hand to help! There are a few things that we recommend already having in mind before you come to Buy Zips from us. Arguably, the most important thing is to know what length of zip you require for your sewing project. Zips are not measured by the length of tape, but actually by the length of teeth, and our zips are available in increments of even numbers - this ranges from the very time 4" dress zip all the way up to our 120" tent zips! If you know what size zip you are after, this can help to make purchasing a zip a lot easier and faster for you. Another thing to know is that if you are buying a zip to replace a broken or worn down one in something you already own or have made, you must replace the entire zip instead of only the zip pull or one side of the teeth. This is because every zip manufactured is ever so minutely different, which means that parts from two or more different zips will not mesh together properly and the finished result will not work correctly. This is incredibly important to remember if you are replacing the zip in a much loved garment, so you do not damage it. If you just cannot find a zip in the correct length or type for your project, it is worth knowing that you can buy a zip in a longer length and cut it down to the required size after securing the ends together (this can be done by either sewing or gluing across the teeth). The last thing that we think is worth knowing is whether your project requires an open end zip or a closed end zip. As the name suggests, open end zips split into two separate halves and are used in garments such as jackets and coats. Closed end zips are used for dresses, skirts and accessories such as bags, where it is not needed for the item or garment to separate into two pieces. If you are not sure of which kind you require, though, simply ask our sales team and they will be able to assist you in deciding which kind would be best for your project. Do you have any tips or hints for using Zips in a sewing project? Leave a comment on our Facebook page - we love to hear back from our customers!