Tutorial: How to unzip a zipper when the pull is on the wrong side

How many times have you sewn up a lined zippered pouch, only to realize that you forgot to leave the zipper unzipped as the turning hole?  Now your purse is inside out without a way to turn it to the right side.

Before you grab your seam ripper, check out this tip offered by Tonya from The Crafty Mummy.  She posts on her blog showing a way you can get that zipper open without having to rip and resew a seam.  Get the tip at Crafty Mummy.

[photo from The Crafty Mummy]

It can be frustrating when the zipper pull is on the wrong side, but with a little bit of knowledge and a few simple tools, it is a problem that can easily be solved.

By following the steps outlined in the above article or our instructions below, you will be able to unzip a zipper even if the pull is on the wrong side. Whether you are working on a piece of clothing, a piece of luggage, or any other item with a zipper, these techniques will come in handy.

So the next time you encounter a zipper with the pull on the wrong side, don’t panic! Just follow these steps and you will be able to unzip it with ease.

If you are new to sewing, or if you have struggled with zippers in the past, this article is for you. Zippers can be intimidating for some sewers, but with a little bit of practice and the right techniques, they are actually quite easy to work with.

Let’s get started!

Step 1: Assess the Situation
Take a moment to examine the zipper and determine which side the pull is currently on. Normally, the pull should be on the opposite side from where it is currently positioned.

Step 2: Grab a Safety Pin or Paperclip
To help us maneuver the zipper, we’ll need a small tool like a safety pin or a paperclip. Choose one that you have on hand and can easily manipulate.

Step 3: Insert the Safety Pin or Paperclip
Take the safety pin or paperclip and insert it into the small hole at the base of the zipper pull. Make sure it is securely attached to the pull.

Step 4: Align the Zipper Teeth
With the safety pin or paperclip attached to the pull, gently pull the zipper teeth together, aligning them in the correct position. This will ensure that the pull can smoothly slide along the teeth.

Step 5: Zip Up the Zipper
Using the safety pin or paperclip as a makeshift pull, slowly and carefully slide it along the zipper teeth in the direction of the closed position. As you do this, the zipper should start to zip up and close.

Step 6: Remove the Safety Pin or Paperclip
Once you have successfully zipped up the zipper, carefully remove the safety pin or paperclip from the pull. Take care not to catch any fabric or accidentally unzip the zipper in the process.

And voila! You have successfully unzipped a zipper when the pull was on the wrong side. Now you can easily zip and unzip the garment without any hassle. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t worry if it takes a few tries to get the hang of it. Happy zipping!

Before you go, here are some tips for sewing with zippers!

Whether you are working on a piece of clothing, a piece of luggage, or any other item with a zipper, these tips will help you achieve success.

1. Always use a zipper foot when sewing with zippers. This specialized foot makes it easier to sew close to the zipper teeth, ensuring a neat and accurate stitch.
2. When sewing a zipper into a seam, it is a good idea to baste the zipper in place first. This will hold it steady and prevent it from shifting while you sew.
3. Don’t forget to backstitch at the beginning and end of your zipper seam. This will help to secure the zipper and prevent it from coming undone.
4. If you are having trouble getting your zipper to lay flat and look neat, try using a pressing cloth and a hot iron to press out any wrinkles or creases.
5. If you are working with a particularly bulky or thick fabric, you may need to use a longer zipper. This will give you more room to maneuver and will make it easier to zip and unzip the zipper.