This project was submitted by one of our readers, just like you.
How To Shorten A Zipper

"Learn how to shorten a zipper before sewing it into a project. This is great for plastic zippers, coiled zippers, and invisible zippers. I have a good stash of zippers, but I rarely have the exact size I need for my project or pattern. The zippers are almost always too long. When I’m buying zippers without a specific project in mind, I buy them too long on purpose. You can always shorten a zipper, but you cannot make a zipper longer. Let me show you how to quickly and easily shorten a zipper! "
Project TypeLearn a Technique
Time to CompleteUnder an hour
Sewn byMachine
Read NextHow to Add Purse Snaps in 5 Minutes
Free projects, giveaways, exclusive partner offers, and more straight to your inbox!
Your Recently Viewed Projects
Project of the Day
Triangle Fabric Weights
Make your own fabric weights with this 10 minutes tutorial! These sewing weights are perfect for skipping pins when tracing your… Continue reading: "Triangle Fabric Weights"
What's Hot
- How to Add Purse Snaps in 5 Minutes
- How to Make an Applique in Five Minutes
- How to Do Basic Clothing Alterations
- How to End a Sewing Stitch
-
How to Read a Sewing Pattern
- Sewing Machine Paper Practice Sheets
- What is Topstitching?
-
How to Use Sewing Patterns
-
10 Best Sewing YouTube Channels
- Sewing Room Organization: Your Complete Guide

Something worth saving?
- SAVE all your favorite patterns
- ADD personal notes
- QUICKLY reference your patterns
Our Newest Projects & Articles
- Why is My Thread Wrapping Around the Bobbin?
- Charleston Beginner Pinwheel Quilt Pattern
- Make A Ruffle Dress From Men's Button Down Shirts
- Free Tie-Hem Shorts Sewing Pattern for Girls
- Easy Girl's Sundress Sewing Pattern
- A Line Dress Pattern For Girls
- Turn Your Old Jeans Into Versatile Denim Belts With Pockets
- 30+ Shirt Dress Patterns Free
- Diy Jane Austen Costume
- Easy Gathered Skirt With Rounded Patch Pockets
Free eBooks
- 11 Free Vintage Patterns: How to Sew Retro-Inspired Clothing for Ladies
- 11 Sewing Room Ideas: How To Organize Your Room
- 15 Sewing Patterns for Women's Dresses & Other Pretty Projects
- 25 Sewing Crafts from Bloggers
- 9 Insanely Awesome Sewing Ideas: How to Sew a Pillow, DIY Home Decor, and More
- Designer Inspired Sewing: 9 Beautiful Designer Inspired Knock Off Patterns
- Fabulous Fabric Flower Tutorials: 7 Ways to Learn How to Make Fabric Flowers
- Sewing for Baby: 11 Small Sewing Projects for Your Little One
- Sewing For Beginners
- Simple Sewing Projects: 16 Easy Sewing Projects for Beginners