How do I repair the zip on my backpack?

Backpacks are indispensable accessories for many people. They're part of our daily lives, whether we're out and about, commuting or even travelling. However, one of the most common problems affecting the durability of backpacks is zip failure. When a zip jams, loses teeth or breaks, the bag can quickly become unusable.
At TILLI, our specialist Makers know how frustrating it is to have to part with a bag that's still in good condition because of a faulty zip. That's why we offer a zip repair service for backpacks, with techniques adapted to each type of problem.

Why do backpack zips break?

Zips are used several times a day, and each time they are used, they come under stress that can lead to wear and tear. Here are some of the most common reasons why zips break:

1. Zipper under tension: When the bag is too full, the zip comes under a lot of pressure. The teeth can pull apart and eventually deform or break.
2. Dust and dirt build-up: Over time, dirt can build up in the zipper rails, making it difficult to open and close.
3. Poor quality of zips: Some zips are made of less resistant materials, such as plastic, which deteriorate more quickly than metal models.
4. Pulling too hard: Pulling the zip too hard or excessively can also cause the slider or teeth to break.

These problems, although common, can all be resolved with proper repairs by qualified artisans.

TILLI artisans repair the zip on your rucksack
Source:TILLI

Repairing Trapped Closures : A Quick and Easy Solution

One of the most common problems is a zip that gets stuck. This can happen when pieces of fabric or lining get stuck in the teeth, or when debris prevents the slider from sliding properly.

At TILLI, our Makers start with a precise diagnosis of the zip to identify the cause of the blockage. Here's how we do it:
- Rail cleaning: We clean the teeth and rails of the lock with specific products to remove accumulated dust, fibres or other debris. This often allows the lock to be unlocked without the need for replacement.
- Lubrication: Once cleaned, we apply a special zip lubricant, which improves slider glide while protecting the zipper from future jams.
- Repairing stuck fabric: If a piece of fabric gets stuck in the zip, our Makers gently remove it without damaging either the zip or the bag. In some cases, we have to reinforce the edges of the fabric to prevent it from getting stuck again.

These simple operations can often bring a stuck zip back to life, prolonging the use of your backpack.

Replacing the broken slider

The slider, which is the moving part of the zip, can also break over time, especially if the zip is frequently used or subjected to heavy stress. A broken slider makes the zip unusable, even if the teeth are still in good condition.
Our Makers are able to replace a faulty slider with a new one that fits your backpack. Here's how we do it:
- Selecting a suitable slider: We choose a quality metal or sturdy plastic slider, depending on the type of zip on the bag. This choice is essential to ensure the durability of the repair.
- Professional installation: The slider is then precisely installed by our Makers. We make sure that the new slider slides perfectly along the tracks and that the zip works smoothly.
- Strength testing: Once the slider has been replaced, we test the zip several times to ensure it is strong and works properly.

Replacing the slider is a quick and cost-effective solution that significantly extends the life of your backpack without requiring a complete zip replacement.

Complete Zipper Replacement: A New Life for Your Bag

When the zip is too badly damaged to be repaired, for example if several teeth are missing or the rails are deformed, it is sometimes necessary to carry out a complete zip replacement.

Our Makers have the expertise to replace a zip while respecting the integrity of your backpack. Here are the steps in the process:

- Removing the damaged zip: We carefully remove the faulty zip by unstitching the seams that hold it in place. We take care not to damage the leather, fabric or linings of the bag.
- Selecting a new zipper: We offer a wide choice of high-quality metal or reinforced plastic zips, depending on your needs and the appearance of your bag. We make sure the new zip is compatible with the style and strength of the bag.
- Professional stitching: The new closure is then sewn securely into the bag by our artisans. We use strong threads to ensure that the closure is perfectly integrated into the backpack, while maintaining an aesthetic appearance.
- Quality control: Before returning the bag to you, we carry out several tests to ensure that the new fastener is strong, resilient and works without a hitch.

Complete zip replacement is an ideal solution when the backpack is still in good condition but the zipper is irreparably damaged. Our Makers guarantee you a quality job, so that you get back a perfectly functional and durable bag.

TILLI artisans repair the zip on your rucksack
Source:TILLI

Why use Tilli to repair your backpack zips?

Entrusting your rucksack repair to the expert artisans at TILLI ensures you get a professional quality job. Here are just a few reasons why choosing Tilli is the best option for your zip repair:

Craftmanship:
Our Makers are trained in leatherwork and textile repair techniques. Each repair is carried out with precision and attention to detail, to ensure that your backpack regains all its original functionality and aesthetics.
Tailor-made repairs:
Every bag is unique, and at TILLI we take into account the specifics of your backpack, whether it's canvas, leather or technical fabric. We tailor our repair techniques to the material and style of the bag to ensure the new closure integrates seamlessly.
Ecological commitment:
By choosing repair rather than replacement, you are helping to reduce textile waste and actively participating in an eco-responsible approach. Repairing a backpack instead of buying a new one is a simple but important gesture to limit the ecological footprint.
Satisfaction guaranteed:
At Tilli, we make sure that every repair meets your expectations. If you're not completely satisfied with the result, we do our utmost to adjust the repairs until you're satisfied.

The zip of a backpack is a crucial element that guarantees its functionality. Whether your zip is stuck, broken or needs a complete replacement, TILLI has expert artisans on hand to repair it with care and precision.
Don't let a faulty closure deprive you of your favourite backpack. Contact our Makers today and bring your accessories back to life with our expert craftsmanship. Extend the life of your bags and help the planet at the same time!

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