I had the wonderful opportunity to visit the Riri zipper factories in Switzerland and Italy.

Swiss precision was shown at it's best as the metal zippers were produced. While touring the factory in Lugano, Switzerland, it was fascinating to see all of the steps in the zipper's construction. I lost count at 20 while I was trying to make note of the number of human hands that touched each zipper from beginning to end! Each tooth is polished, which makes the zipper slide very smoothly. You will also notice that the teeth are smooth to the touch and there is no bite to the metal teeth. The zipper tapes are manufactured in Italy, in a small town called Tirano. This is also where Riri makes the plastic teeth zippers and has their high tech department.

Leftover zipper tape makes a great piping in a garment.

I applied the multi-colored aluminum teeth zipper to the Latté Jacket from my A La Mode pattern line.  You'll notice the zipper is functional to the point where the lapel on the jacket folds back.  At that point, the teeth create a decorative piping on the lapel.

I hope you have fun designing with these wonderful, high quality zippers. Designers from Dooney & Bourke, Gucci, and many other names you will find on the runways of the fashion world, use Riri zippers to create that “perfect” garment, bag, or accessory. Consider adding zippers to jacket sleeves, pockets, etc. to channel your creativity and zip it up!

Watch for more project ideas and zipper designs! Sign up on the e mail list to be notified of “what's new.” We will be adding pictures of the factory and the actual zipper construction which I think you will find very interesting.

Care of your Riri aluminum teeth zippers:

The factory doesn't recommend washing these zippers, because there are so many chemicals that people wash their clothing in. To be safe, they say do not wash.

We have been very successful in washing the zippers, using a mild detergent for fine washables and placing the garment in a laundry bag, if possible. Use gentle cycle and air dry. Always turn the zipper to the inside before washing the garment. Prevent the enameled pullers from being agitated against metal, as the enamel could chip if not properly cared for.