How to Install a #5 Zipper Pull on Your Bag
By Sallie Tomato | Published: 2026-10-17
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to install or replace a #5 zipper pull on your bag. This step-by-step guide covers the tools you need, common mistakes, and tips for a smooth fix.
Quick answer
To install a #5 zipper pull, you need a #5 nylon coil zipper and the pull itself. Simply slide the pull onto the open end of the zipper tape, then add a zipper stop or sew the ends closed. The whole process takes under a minute once you have the right parts.
What You Need to Get Started
Before you begin, make sure you have a #5 nylon coil zipper and a compatible zipper pull. Sallie Tomato offers #5 zipper pulls in several styles, including the Four #5 Donut Zipper Pulls and the Four Four-leaf Clover Zipper Pulls. Both work with any size #5 nylon coil zipper, which is ideal for handbags, backpacks, totes, and laptop carriers. You will also need a pair of pliers if your zipper does not come with a stop, or you can simply sew across the ends of the tape to keep the pull from sliding off.
Step-by-Step Installation
- Step 1: Open the zipper tape end: If your zipper tape is sewn closed at one end, use a seam ripper to open a small gap. You only need enough space to slide the pull onto the coil. For Sallie Tomato Zippers by the Yard, you cut the tape to your desired length, so the end is already open. Common mistake: opening too much of the tape, which can weaken the zipper. Just a 1/4 inch gap is enough.
- Step 2: Slide the pull onto the coil: Hold the zipper pull at a slight angle so the coil fits through the slot. Push the pull onto the tape until it clicks into place. You should hear or feel a small snap when the pull is seated correctly. Checkpoint: If the pull slides off easily, you may have forced it on the wrong side. The pull has a top and bottom; the wider opening faces the zipper teeth.
- Step 3: Secure the end of the zipper: To keep the pull from sliding off, either sew a few stitches across the end of the zipper tape or attach a zipper stop with pliers. For a cleaner look, fold the tape end under before sewing. Common mistake: forgetting to secure the end before using the zipper. The pull can come off completely, and you will have to start over.
Product facts
- Four #5 Donut Zipper Pulls: Use these zipper pulls with Sallie Tomato Zippers by the Yard, or any size #5 nylon coil zipper. This size zipper is best used on the top of handbags, backpacks, totes, laptop carriers, and more. Make single or double slide zippers with these pulls. Double slide zippers open from the middle out, which is ideal for luggage style bags, bowler bags, handbags, and more. If you want a zipper that opens from the center, like on a duffel bag or bowling bag, these pulls let you create a double-slide zipper easily.
- Four Four-leaf Clover Zipper Pulls: Use these zipper pulls with Sallie Tomato Zippers by the Yard, or any size #5 nylon coil zipper. This size zipper is best used on the top of handbags, backpacks, totes, laptop carriers, and more. Make single or double slide zippers with these pulls. Double slide zippers open from the middle out, which is ideal for luggage style bags, bowler bags, handbags, and more. The clover shape gives you a larger grip, which is helpful if you have trouble grasping smaller pulls or want a decorative touch.
