Zip Fastener

 A Zip is a commonly used device for binding the edges of an opening of fabric, bag, shoe and so on. The device was patented in 1893 by Witcomb B Judson, and he called it a 'clasp locker'. This design was improved by Gideon Sundback and applied it for sleeping bags, gloves, corsets, money belts, tobacco pouches etc. Goodrich used it in Zipper boots. By the 1930's "zipper" became a generic term applied to any toothed, slide fastener. Whatever the zip is, its weight (determined by its tape and structure weather coil or chain) should be compatible with that of the garment fabric.

A coil zip is a continuous synthetic strand made up of polyester or nylon twisted into a spiral and attached to a woven or knit synthetic tape. The coil zip is lightweight and more flexible and hence it is suitable for lightweight to medium fabrics.

A chain zip consists of individual teeth, generally metal attached to a cotton-blend or cotton tape. Chains are slightly more rigid and are suitable for medium to heavy fabrics as they can cause buckling on light weight fabrics.

Zips are of three basic types:

Conventional Zips are either chain or coil, are open at the top and are held together at the bottom. They are available in many different styles then any zip types. Used for necklines, dresses, skirts, trousers, jeans etc.

Concealed Zips are built differently from other zippers and are inserted in a special way so that they disappear into a seam (neither the zip coil nor the stitching is visible on the outside). These types of zippers are mainly used in dresses and skirts.

Open-End Zips open at both top and bottom, allowing the zip opening to separate completely. These are ideal for completely front opened apparels like jackets and cardigans.

Balloon Silhouette

The balloon silhouette describes the apparel that has the inflated shape of a balloon. The balloon shape can be either from the bust or from the waistline. The bubble skirt (sometimes called tulip or puffball) has a gathered small waistline, then ballooning out and tapered in the hem. This silhouette was popular in 1950's and recurring again and again due to its unique and eye catchy appearance.

Stitches on Pattern Selection Dial

The pattern selection Dial can be turned in either direction to choose a desired stitch.

 

1=Automatic Buttonhole.  

2, 3, 4 = Zig Zag Stitch.

5 = Zig Zag Satin Stitch.

6, 7, 8, 9, 10 = Straight Stitch (Center Needle Position).

11 = Straight Stitch (Left Needle Position).

12 = Blind Hem Stitch.

13 = Elastic Stitch.

14 = Stretch Blind Hem Stitch.

15 = Overedge Stitch.

16 = Double Action Stitch.

17 = Bridging Stitch.

(16 & 17 are only available on certain models).

Bow

A Bow is a knot generally having two loops and two loose ends, often a narrow fabric, ribbon or string used for neckties, sashes, hair clips or as a decorative trim. It is also called as a bow knot. The bow knots are timeless accessories that gives a stylish impression and unique identity ideal for multiple occasions such as formal events, weddings or special celebrations.

Mermaid Silhouette

The Mermaid is a slim fitted silhouette that hugs the body from the chest down to the knees and then the skirt flares out at the end in the shape of a fishtail and hence also called as fishtail dress. The mermaid gown was introduced in late 1960's by designer Norman Norell, completely covered with sequins to give a dazzling effect. The mermaid silhouette best fits the body with an hourglass figure, showcasing the curves.

Bosnian Stitch

The Bosnian stitch looks similar to Zig-Zag Stitch, but the difference is that it is worked in two passes. It is also called by the names Barrier Stitch or Fence Stitch. It can be used as a row or border stitch or to fill the space.

On the first pass create a row of parallel whipstitches and then work back in the opposite direction filling in with a row of slanted parallel whipstitches. Different color threads can be used for each pass to create a variation of the stitch.

 Bosnian Stitch Back

Zig-Zag Stitch

The Zig-Zag Stitch is an easy stitch which is sewn in single pass. It is used on outlines and in closed rows as filling.

Bring the needle up at 'a' and go down at 'b', then again come back up at 'a'.

Go down at 'c' to create a diagonal stitch and come up at 'd'.

Go back down at 'c' and come up at 'd', then go down at 'e' to create a diagonal stitch.

Continue this pattern till the end of the row.

Zig-Zag Stitch Back