(Image: Clare V – Cartable Tote)
When you Google, “choosing the perfect handbag” you’ll find that the perfect handbag will depend on body type, day or night time, the type of handbag, etc. In choosing the perfect handbag zipper, there are no biases toward body types, however there are a slew of options available. We’re going to show you a few different things to keep in mind when you’re choosing zippers for your next handbag collection.
1. Type of Zipper – Depending on the final price point of your product will drive the decision of what type of zipper you will be using. I’ve seen everything from nylon coil, plastic molded, classic metal zippers and G2 zippers. If you’re planning on going high end, then luxury zippers would be your best choice. The type of zipper will then lead to what type of slider you will be using.
2. Type of Slider – When talking about the types of sliders, we’re referring to locking and non-locking sliders. A locking slider has a mechanism inside the slider body that keeps the slider from moving on the zipper chain. This is most used on vertical applications, such as jackets. In the image below you’ll see a small pin inside the slider body.
A non locking slider is just that – it doesn’t lock at all and freely moves along the chain without having to pull the slider pull. On handbags, the slider most often used is a non locking slider.
3. Number of Sliders – In some handbag designs, there is one slider used to close the zipper. In others, there are two sliders used. With two sliders, the sliders come together to close the zipper and in opposite directions to open the bag. This is called a two way closed zipper. With two sliders, it’s a good idea to find a zipper that uses symmetrical teeth. This ensures that the slider will function in either direction without any hiccups. Nylon coil, plastic molded, and some metal zippers will work in both directions. Pay special attention to metal zippers because by default, they are not meant to run in a two way fashion.
At the end of the day, you want a great quality zipper that will compliment your design. After all, you’ve spent so much time and effort designing a wonderful piece, don’t let the zipper ruin the total experience.
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