Finding the right colour zip

How frustrating is it when you have to replace a zip and you can’t find the same colour?  This has happened to me a few times, and in garments that are quite expensive.  So here is the solution.  Get a white zipper in the same style and length and dye it.  You can buy the little tins of dye from most chemist shops (in Australia - not sure where in your country but ring around) and if you can’t find the right dye try dying it with things you have around the house.  For example - I needed a zip in a very soft tan colour.  Not brown and not creme, so I dipped the zip in coffee for about 10 minutes, and when it dried it was perfect.  Tea is another good one, or bark from a tree boiled in some water.  You don’t need much water just enough to cover the zip.  The list is endless and it is all down to your imagination.  If you aren’t sure, use an old broken zip in white to practice with.

Happy sewing

Judith aka genie