Zipper Foot

A zipper foot is a narrow presser foot that lets you stitch close to the zipper teeth without the foot riding over them. Unlike a standard presser foot, it has a single toe on one side instead of two balanced toes.

The foot positions the needle right next to the zipper coil so you get a straight, tight seam without catching the teeth. Most zipper feet are adjustable, letting you move the foot left or right depending on which side of the zipper you're sewing.

A regular zipper foot has a narrow profile that lets you stitch close to zipper teeth. It works with standard zippers, exposed zippers, and most zipper applications where the stitching shows on the outside.

An invisible zipper foot has two grooves on the bottom that hold the zipper coils upright while you sew. This lets you stitch directly behind the teeth so the zipper hides in the seam. The result is a nearly invisible closure.

Use a regular zipper foot for jeans, bags, cushions, and visible zippers. Use an invisible zipper foot for dress backs, skirt sides, and anywhere you want the zipper hidden.

Technically, no. You can sew a zipper with a standard presser foot, but the results will be inconsistent. The wide foot can't get close enough to the zipper teeth, leaving a gap between your stitching and the zipper.

A zipper foot gives you control and precision. It lets you:

• Stitch closer: Get right next to the teeth for a professional finish.
• Sew both sides evenly: Adjust the foot position for left or right stitching.
• Avoid catching teeth: The narrow profile clears the coil without snagging.

For occasional repairs, you might manage without one. For garment sewing or projects with multiple zippers, a zipper foot saves time and frustration. Most sewing machines include a basic zipper foot, but dedicated invisible zipper feet are usually sold separately.

You can try, but results are usually disappointing. A regular zipper foot doesn't hold the coils in the right position, so your stitching ends up too far from the teeth. The zipper shows instead of hiding in the seam.

An invisible zipper foot has grooves that lift and separate the coils while you sew. This lets the needle stitch right behind the teeth, which is what makes the zipper disappear into the fabric.

If you sew garments with invisible zippers, the dedicated foot is worth the investment. It turns a tricky technique into a straightforward process. Check our presser feet collection for invisible zipper feet compatible with your machine.

To use a zipper foot:

• Attach the foot: Remove your standard presser foot and snap or screw on the zipper foot. Check your machine's manual for the attachment method.
• Position the foot: Adjust the foot so the needle falls on the side closest to the zipper teeth. Most feet snap to either the left or right position.
• Align the zipper: Place the zipper face down on the right side of your fabric, raw edges aligned. Pin or use sewing clips to hold it in place.
• Sew the first side: Stitch from top to bottom, keeping the foot edge against the zipper teeth.
• Reposition and sew the second side: Move the foot to the opposite position. Stitch the other side from top to bottom.

Always sew in the same direction on both sides to prevent puckering. Lower your stitch length slightly (around 2.0 to 2.5mm) for a secure seam.