In this article
Why does the finish matter?
The teeth, slider and stops of a metal zipper share the same finish. The finish defines the product's look, how it matches other metal trims such as buttons and rivets, and your brand's style.
Silver tones
- Nickel: Classic silver. Matches every tape colour and is one of the most popular finishes.
- Matte nickel: Non-reflective, understated silver for minimal collections.
- Bright silver: Mirror-bright and clean.
- Antique silver: Aged silver for vintage and casual products.
Yellow and warm tones
- Brass: Warm yellow metal, the classic denim finish.
- Antique brass: Aged brass, much loved in denim, leather and workwear.
- Gold: Bright gold for a premium look on bags and accessories.
- Rose gold: Pink gold for handbags and accessories.
- Copper and antique copper: Warm reddish tones for leather and special collections.
Dark tones
- Gunmetal: Dark grey with a modern, urban feel.
- Black oxide: Matte black, for when the zipper should almost disappear on dark products.
How to pair finish and tape colour
A practical rule: antique brass or brass for indigo and dark denim, gunmetal or black oxide for black products, nickel or bright silver for light colours. Try your own combination in our finishes and colours catalogue.
MAK Zipper produces all of these finishes. On-screen colours are always indicative, request a sample for the exact result.
Where finishes cause trouble
A finish name usually describes the surface treatment, not the alloy. The same brass tooth can look silver, antique or black depending on the finish. Manufacturer manuals ask for extra care in these cases:
| Situation | Risk | Precaution |
|---|---|---|
| Bleach, peroxide | Colour change on copper-alloy teeth | Attach the zipper after washing and dyeing if you can; otherwise pre-test |
| Stone washing | Abrasion, metal dust | Keep the zipper closed and covered by fabric |
| Leather goods | Tanning chemicals can yellow the metal | Avoid poorly ventilated packs and test with a sample |
| Painted teeth or pullers | Paint chipping at edges | Wash a sample first on garments that get washed |
Three things to check before you decide
- Will the product be washed? Always test dark and painted surfaces with a sample before heavy washing.
- What colour is the other hardware? Match buttons, rivets and buckles.
- What colour is the tape? Judge the finish together with the tape. See all options in the finish and colour catalogue.
