Jan 16, 20231 min
Updated: Feb 13, 2023
Is your zipper too long? Shorten it! It only take a couple of tools and a little bit of time to make it the perfect length for your project. Follow along with the steps below and you'll be a zipper-shortening pro in no time. Bookmark, save or print out the handy How To guide below.
Metal Zipper (the one you want to shorten)
End Nippers (also known as End Cutting Pliers)
Needle Nose Pliers
Measuring from the bottom of the zipper up, mark the new shorter length you'd like the zipper to be.
Using your end nippers or needle nose pliers, pull off the zipper teeth above your desired length.
Once you have reached your desired shortened zipper length, install a new zipper top stop using your end needle nose pliers. WAWAK has a large selection of Zipper Top & Bottom Stops available in a variety of sizes and finishes.
Repeat steps 2 and 3 on the other size of your zipper tape. TIP: Before you begin, count the number of zipper teeth you removed on the first side, then you'll know exactly how many to remove on this side.
Cut off excess zipper tape as desired.
Use this handy how to guide to learn how to shorten a metal zipper in just a few steps.