Portsmith Black Zipper Closure Kit: When and How to Use It
By Klum House: Bag making kits, bag sewing patterns, waxed | Published: 2026-11-03
Category: Guias Práticos
Add a secure zipper to your Portsmith Tote with the Black Zipper Closure Kit. Learn when to choose it and follow step-by-step installation tips for a clean finish.
Quick answer
Use the Portsmith Black Zipper Closure Kit when you want to add a secure, polished zipper to your Portsmith Tote. Install it after the main bag body is assembled, and follow the steps below to avoid common mistakes.
When the zipper closure expansion makes sense
The Portsmith Tote is designed as an open-top bag, so the zipper closure expansion is for makers who want added security or a more finished look. It is not a required part of the pattern, so you can skip it if you prefer quick access or a simpler build.
Because the kit includes specific hardware and leather pieces, it is best to decide before you cut into your main fabric. Adding a zipper later can be done, but it requires more careful seam ripping and realignment.
What to check before you start
The kit assumes you already have the Portsmith pattern and the main bag materials. The pattern is sold separately unless you add it to your kit order. Make sure you have the pattern on hand and have read the zipper installation section before you begin.
The kit includes a 14-inch brass zipper, leather zipper pull and end tab, and two double-cap rivets. You will also need basic sewing tools, including a zipper foot, and a way to set rivets, such as a rivet setter and hammer.
Step-by-step zipper installation
- Prepare the zipper opening: Finish the top edges of your bag body and mark the zipper placement according to the pattern. Common mistake: skipping the marking step and guessing the center, which leads to an off-center zipper. Always mark both ends and the center before sewing.
- Attach the zipper to the bag: Pin or baste the zipper in place, then sew along both sides using a zipper foot. Checkpoint: open and close the zipper a few times before final stitching to ensure it lies flat and does not pucker. Basting first saves time if you need to adjust.
- Add the leather end tab: Fold the leather end tab over the zipper end and secure it with the provided double-cap rivets. Common mistake: setting the rivet too close to the zipper teeth, which can interfere with the slider. Leave a small gap between the rivet and the zipper teeth.
- Install the leather zipper pull: Thread the leather pull through the zipper slider and secure it according to the kit instructions. Checkpoint: tug gently to confirm the pull is secure and the slider moves smoothly. Test the pull before using the bag.
- Final check and finish: Open and close the zipper fully, check that the rivets are flush, and trim any loose threads. Common mistake: forgetting to backstitch at the zipper ends, which can cause the stitching to unravel with use. Backstitch at both ends for durability.
Product facts
- Portsmith - Black Zipper Closure Kit: Includes a 14-inch brass zipper, leather zipper pull and end tab, and two double-cap rivets. All the closure-specific hardware comes in one kit, so you do not have to source matching pieces separately.
Portsmith - Black Zipper Closure Kit
