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[Blucher]

Hey, all,

I'm trying to make some backpacks/knapsacks, bike bags, gun cases, etc., out of heavy cordura fabric and Vislon zippers and I got some zippers on ebay, but I mistakenly bought open-ended zippers -- like you would use on a jacket -- instead of "closed end" zippers with a stop at the bottom.

Here's what I'm talking about:
https://cdn.w600.comps.canstockphoto.co ... 783273.jpg

Question: For use on bike bags, etc., can I "convert" the open-ended zipper to closed-end by simply stitching across the bottom of the zipper, just above the "box" where the zipper would be started at the bottom of a jacket? I get the feeling this is how people do it when they buy zipper tape in bulk, on a reel, as shown here (at 4:15):



I would be using real heavy thread -- T90 or heavier -- on my upholstery walking foot machine, and would stitch forward and back several times, so it should be good and strong.

Is this a workable "hack" to use the zippers I bought, or should I return them and get zippers with metallic "stops" at the end of the zipper?

TIA for any advice.

[WILD BILL]

Don't take this as gospel as I've not done it yet but that is what I would do.

Sailrite I believe has a video where they made a back pack that might be worth watching.

[WILD BILL]

Found it.

[Adam12]

You're on the right track, you can close up the ends of a separating zipper, going the other way however is a different story

[Blucher]

Thanks fellas, I appreciate your help. I'll let the forum know how it goes when I try it.

[WILD BILL]

Another back pack video....



I didn't watch it to see if it answered your question but I have found his vids to be well made and informative.

[MalcolmM]

This is a "Zipper repair kit" it has the pieces you need to have an open ended zipper, but may not last as long as a manufactured one. Best to save the zipper tape for closed ended pockets and buy the right ones for your needs.