If you want to turn a sweater into a zip necked jumper, this handy step-by-step is guide is going to become your new crafting BFF!

1

With RS facing and zipper closed, with the pull tab at the top, place one edge just touching the zipper teeth. Without stretching the knitting, place pins at right-angles to the edge.

2

With RS facing, using a sharp sewing needle and contrasting sewing thread, tack zipper in place along one edge. Tack top end of zipper out of the way. Repeat on other edge, ensuring any patterning or stripes match up.

3

With WS facing, whip stitch outer edges of zipper to WS of project using matching thread.

4

With WS facing, backstitch close to knitted edge along each edge - becareful not to take stitches through to RS. Once stitching is complete, check for any puckering before removing tacking threads.

5

Depending on the garment, tuck the fabric tags at the top of the zipper sideways, beneath the knitted edge or to the back at an angle.

6

For a closed-ended zipper, stitch across the bottom of the zip. Leave open if the zip is for a jacket or similar project that will need to be fully opened.

Top tips

• Choose a zipper to match the knitting. If you can’t find a match, a darker shade will usually look better than a lighter shade. Alternatively, a bold contrasting zip can give a striking effect.

• If needed, use a woven tape to help stabilize the knitted fabric when sewing the zipper in.

• For jackets and longer garments, you might like to choose a double-ended zipper so that the garment can be unzipped either from the top or bottom.

Looking for a new zipper project? Download Knit Now 156 to create the gorgeous Erietta sweater!