Zips are not only an essential item when dressmaking, but can be used in furnishings, costumes and much more. As you can guess i'm going to talk about zips in todays blog :-) Firstly I'm going to break down the different types of zips, there uses and what different options are available in them. Dress Zips: As the title says, these closed ended zips are for use in dresses or cushions and are fairly lightweight. They come in sizes from 4'' through to 22''. They are also available in over 20 colours. Tent Zips: These long open end zips are for use when you need a strong heavier weight zips. These zips only come in black and beige. Concealed Zips: A zip that cannot be seen when it has been fitted to a garment. These zips are mainly for use in dresses or skirts. They come in sizes from 9'' up to 22''. Metal Open End Zips: These YKK zips are an excellent quality zips that can be used in jackets, coats and even dresses. It's very fashionable at the moment to see a metal zips on the back of dresses, and these are the zips to use :-) Plastic Open End Zips: A high quality zip that is ideal for use in jackets and/or coats. Available in a variety of colours and i sizes from 10'' up to 36''. As you can see there is a vast choice of zips available here at Calico Laine. If you have purchased Zips from us and used then then why not share any tips you have with us and other customers on our Facebook and Twitter pages? I hope you have enjoyed today's blog and as always if you have any thoughts or suggestions please do leave a comment in the box below, Until next time, Calico Laine :-)