Goes in like any separating zipper.

If you can replace a jacket zipper, you can put in a MagZip. Six steps, about an hour. Or hand it to any tailor.

Show me the steps Get a MagZip

The bottom of a black MagZip: the slider on the left half and the magnetic base on the right half — The magnetic base stays at the bottom. You only ever cut the top.

What you need

A MagZip at least as long as the old zipper · shop
Seam ripper
Wire cutters and small pliers
Pins or clips
Sewing machine and matching thread
Top Stop Kit, only if you cut it shorter (2 come in the bag)

Six steps.

Step 1

Measure the old zipper

Measure the zipper you are replacing, from the bottom of the base to the top stop. Order a MagZip at least that long. Longer is fine: you'll trim it.

Round or square, #5 or #8? Most hoodies and light jackets are #5. Heavy coats are usually #8. The number is often printed on the back of the old slider.

Step 2

Take out the old zipper

Use a seam ripper to cut the stitches holding the old zipper, one side at a time. Go slowly so you don't nick the fabric.

Leave the fabric folds and facing as they are. The MagZip goes right back into the same spot.

Step 3

Trim it from the top

Zip the MagZip closed. Line its base up with the bottom of the jacket and mark the length you need at the top. Cut straight across both sides.

Never cut the bottom. The magnetic base is what makes it a MagZip. Buying pre-cut Round #5 Colors? They already have top stops, so skip steps 3 and 4.

Step 4

Add the top stops

Near each cut end, pull off one tooth with wire cutters. Put a top stop in its place and squeeze it tight with pliers. Two come in the bag.

They stop the slider from running off the top.

Top stops fit #5 MagZips. #8 zippers need #8 stops.

Step 5

Pin it in place

Unzip it into two halves. Pin each half where the old zipper sat, with the base flush with the hem. The slider half goes on the same side as before.

Leave a little room between the fabric edge and the teeth so the fabric can't catch.

Step 6

Sew both sides, then click it

Straight stitch down each side about ¼″ from the teeth. Backstitch at both ends and pull pins as you go. A zipper foot helps you get close.

The base is bulkier than a normal zipper end. If your presser foot can't get close to it, stop just above it and finish the last bit by hand.

Done? Bring the ends close, feel the click, and zip. If the fabric catches, move your stitch line a little farther from the teeth.

Want photos of every step?

Kerry's tutorial

Kerry, an occupational therapist at The DIY Therapist, sewed a MagZip into a jacket and photographed every step.

Read her tutorial →

Rather not sew?

Hand it to a tailor

Any local tailor can put in a MagZip the same way they'd replace a separating zipper. Bring this page. Or skip sewing with ZipperBuddy.

Stuck?

Ask us

Call (585) 542-8882 or email info@ankhgear.com. We'll help you pick the right size too.

Shop MagZip

← Back to Shop MagZip

Good to know: MagZip uses small magnets. Keep it away from pacemakers and other implanted medical devices. Don't iron directly on the magnetic base.