Cut Your Own Path:
The Best Zippers by the Yard
Unlock custom zippers! Learn to <br>
choose & assemble the best zipper by the yard for any project. Save money, reduce waste.
Best Zippers by the Yard
Zipper by the yard – also called continuous zipper chain or zipper tape – is unfinished zipper material sold in custom lengths that you cut and assemble yourself with separate sliders and stops.
Quick Answer for Buyers:
- What it is: Raw zipper tape without sliders or stops
- Best for: Custom lengths, bulk projects, cost savings
- You’ll need: Zipper tape + sliders + stops (sold separately)
- Cannot make: Separating zippers (jackets) – closed-end only
- Typical savings: Up to 75% vs. pre-made zippers
After a frustrating and costly trip to a retail store, many professionals ask themselves: “there has to be a better way!” There is. Manufacturing pros have finded that buying zipper by the yard offers best flexibility and significant cost savings.
Whether you’re creating upholstery for outdoor cushions, designing custom bags, or working on marine applications, continuous zipper tape lets you create exactly the length you need. No more settling for standard sizes or paying premium prices for specialty lengths.
The process is straightforward: specify your yardage, attach a slider, and create stopping points by sewing over the ends or using zipper stops. Bulk discounts start at just 10 yards, making this approach perfect for manufacturers who need consistent, reliable zipper solutions.
The Big Advantages:
Why Choose Continuous Zipper Tape?
When you find zipper by the yard, it’s like finding the perfect tool you never knew existed. After 80 years in the business, we’ve watched countless professionals make this switch – and they never look back.
The biggest game-changer? Custom lengths that fit your vision perfectly. Need a 47-inch zipper for that unique tote bag design? Or maybe a 120-inch zipper for oversized outdoor cushions? With continuous zipper chain, you simply measure and cut exactly what you need. No more settling for “close enough” standard sizes or paying premium prices for special orders.
This precision means zero waste – every inch you buy gets used. Compare that to buying pre-made zippers that are often too long, leaving you with expensive scraps you’ll probably never use.
The cost savings are remarkable, especially if you work on multiple projects. A single retail zipper might cost $8, but when you buy zipper by the yard, that same zipper could cost around $2. For busy workrooms and manufacturers, those savings add up fast. Our bulk discounts start at just 10 yards, with even better pricing at 100+ yards.
Here’s something most people don’t realize: continuous zipper tape gives you the creative freedom to make double-pull zippers. Since you add the sliders yourself, you can easily install pulls that work from both directions. This is perfect for luggage, sleeping bags, or any application where you need access from either end.
For projects with long or unusual sizes – think marine covers, upholstery, or industrial applications – zipper by the yard is often your only practical option. Standard zippers rarely come in the lengths these projects demand.
The beauty of this approach is the complete control it gives you over every aspect of your zipper. You choose the length, the slider style, and exactly where the stops go. It’s customization at its finest.
With Lenzip’s commitment to unparalleled quality and reliable on-time delivery, you get all these advantages backed by decades of American manufacturing expertise. Learn more about our company and find why professionals nationwide trust us for their continuous zipper solutions.
A Closer Look at Zipper Materials and Types
When you’re shopping for zipper by the yard, the type of teeth or coil you choose can make or break your project. It’s like picking the right tool for the job – each material has its own personality and strengths that shine in different situations.
Think of it this way: you wouldn’t use a delicate silk thread to repair work boots, right? The same logic applies to zippers. Understanding the durability, flexibility, and best applications for each type helps you make smart choices that’ll keep your projects looking great and working smoothly for years to come.
Coil Zippers
Coil zippers are the friendly workhorses of the zipper world. They’re made from a continuous spiral of nylon or polyester filament that’s stitched right onto the tape. This design makes them incredibly forgiving – they bend, curve, and bounce back without breaking a sweat.
Nylon coil zippers are particularly popular because they’re so easy to work with. The smooth coil glides effortlessly under your sewing machine needle, and they operate like butter. Many people love their shiny appearance that gives you the look of metal without the weight or stiffness.
Polyester coil zippers offer similar benefits with their own subtle differences in texture and durability. Both types are flexible champions that adapt beautifully to curved seams and unusual shapes.
These versatile zippers excel in bags and purses where you need smooth curves around corners. They’re perfect for cushions and upholstery projects, especially when you want a softer feel. For general apparel, they provide reliable closure without adding bulk or weight.
Here’s where it gets really interesting: we offer water-resistant coil options with vinyl coating that can actually eliminate the need for storm flaps. This makes your designs cleaner while keeping moisture out – a win-win for outdoor gear and marine applications.
If you’re curious about zipper terminology and want to dive deeper into the technical aspects, check out our Zipper Terminology guide.
Molded Plastic Zippers
Molded plastic zippers are the tough cookies of the bunch. Each tooth is individually molded and injected directly onto the zipper tape, creating perfectly symmetrical, durable teeth that can handle serious abuse.
What makes these zippers special is their lightweight yet incredibly strong construction. They laugh in the face of weather – rain, salt spray, UV rays – none of it fazes them. Unlike metal zippers, they won’t corrode or rust, making them ideal for harsh environments.
You’ll find molded plastic zippers thriving in outdoor gear like backpacks, tents, and sleeping bags where reliability is non-negotiable. Marine applications love them too – boat covers, bimini tops, and deck cushions benefit from their weather-resistant nature. Sportswear and activewear designers appreciate how they handle frequent use and washing cycles.
For specialized applications, we even offer Nomex® Fire Retardant options in molded plastic, perfect when safety requirements demand extra protection.
Metal Zippers
When you absolutely, positively need a zipper that can handle anything you throw at it, metal zippers step up to the plate. These heavy-duty champions feature teeth made from brass, aluminum, nickel, or antique brass that are crimped onto the tape with serious staying power.
Metal zippers don’t just provide ultimate strength and durability – they make a statement. That distinctive metallic look and substantial feel often becomes part of a product’s identity. There’s something satisfying about the solid “zip” sound they make.
These powerhouses dominate in jeans and workwear where pockets and plackets face constant stress. Rugged bags like tool bags, heavy-duty backpacks, and quality luggage rely on their dependability. Boots and heavy outerwear need closures that won’t fail when it matters most.
We also offer Nomex® Fire Retardant options in brass for critical applications where fire resistance is essential.
We understand that every project is unique, which is why we offer the flexibility you need. Our B2B focus means we can support your business with options that work for you, including minimums as low as 25 units. We are not just a supplier; we are your partner, committed to helping you find the right solution to fit your specific requirements.
Let’s Find the Right Solution for You
Ready to upgrade to the Lenzip standard? We’re here to help.
Talk to a representative today. We’ll help you find the right solution for your project
Call us at (847) 368-9000 or request a quote today.