YKK Zips NZ | Invisible, Dress, Trouser & Jacket Zips
Shop by zip type
Find the right YKK zip for your project
The zip type controls how it is installed and how it looks when finished. Use the guide below to narrow down the best starting point before you choose colour and length.
Invisible zips
The coil sits behind the tape so the closed zip almost disappears into the seam. A refined choice for dresses, skirts, blouses and fitted garments.
Dress zips
A practical closed-end option for dresses, skirts, cushions and everyday sewing. Match the length to the opening in your pattern and keep the seam line straight.
Trouser zips
Designed for fly fronts and tailored waistbands. The nickel-tooth finish gives trousers, shorts and utility garments a crisp, professional detail.
A quick fit check
Closed-end or open-end?
Look at the bottom of the opening in your pattern. If the two sides must separate completely, you need an open-end zip. If the zip stays joined at the bottom, choose a closed-end style.
Choose by project
A professional zip for every make
Start with the garment or project, then confirm the opening length and the zip style shown in your pattern instructions.
Dresses & skirts
Choose an invisible zip for a low-profile seam, or a dress zip when the zip is part of the design.
Trousers & shorts
Use a 15, 18 or 20cm trouser zip to suit the fly-front opening and waistband construction.
Jackets & coats
Select a Vislon open-end zip in 50–75cm, matching the finished centre-front length.
Bags & repairs
Use Vislon for a sturdy open-front look, or a closed-end dress zip for pockets, pouches and replacement work.
Cushions & home sewing
A closed-end 25 or 50cm dress zip can keep a cushion cover neat while making it easy to remove.
Alterations
Measure the existing opening before ordering and choose the same zip type, length and colour where possible.
Zip installation tips for a polished finish
YKK zip FAQs
How do I choose the correct zip length?
Measure the finished opening shown on your pattern. For a replacement, measure from the top stop to the bottom stop of the existing zip. A slightly longer zip can often be shortened only when the construction allows it, so matching the stated length is the safest choice.
What is the difference between an invisible zip and a dress zip?
An invisible zip is designed so the coil rolls behind the tape and blends into the seam when closed. A standard dress zip has a more visible tape and tooth line, making it useful when the zip may be seen or needs a straightforward closed-end finish.
When should I use a Vislon open-end zip?
Use a Vislon open-end zip when both sides of the garment must separate completely, such as a centre-front jacket, coat or vest. Confirm the finished opening length before selecting 50, 60, 65 or 75cm.
Which zip is best for trousers?
Choose a YKK trouser zip in 15, 18 or 20cm according to your fly-front pattern. The nickel-tooth style gives a neat, tailored look; always check the opening measurement and waistband construction.
Can I use these YKK zips for alterations and repairs?
Yes. For the closest result, match the original zip type, length, tape colour and tooth appearance. Remove the old zip carefully, press the seam and test the replacement before final stitching.
How do I sew an invisible zip neatly?
Press the seam allowance flat, stabilise delicate fabric, use an invisible-zip foot if available and stitch close to the coil without sewing over it. Close the zip before checking the seam from the right side.
Do YKK zips come in different colours?
Colour availability varies by style and length. Select the closest match to your fabric for a discreet finish, or choose a contrast when you want the zip to become a deliberate design detail.
Shop YKK zips in New Zealand
From invisible dress zips to Vislon jacket zips, Direct Sewing has practical YKK lengths ready for dressmaking, tailoring, repairs and creative sewing across NZ.
Compare zip types
