Quick answer
Slide the size 3 zipper pull onto the open end of your zipper tape, then snap the stopper back in place or sew a new one. The process works the same for donut and bar pulls, but the grip and look differ.
Donut vs. bar pulls – which to choose
Donut pulls offer a round, easy-to-grip shape that works well for larger bags or when you need more leverage. Bar pulls are slimmer and sit flatter, which can be preferable for smaller pouches or a more minimalist look.
Both attach the same way, so choosing comes down to how the bag will be used and the style you want. If you often struggle to grab a zipper tab, the donut shape may be more forgiving.
Step-by-step installation
- Remove the old pull or open the tape end: If replacing, slide the old pull off the open end of the zipper tape. If installing on new tape, make sure the stopper (the metal or plastic piece at the end) is removed so the pull can slide on. Many zipper tapes have a fixed stopper; if you can't slide it off, you may need to cut the tape end carefully and add a new stopper later.
- Slide the new size 3 pull onto the tape: Hold the pull with the opening facing the tape end. Push it onto the tape until it clicks onto the zipper chain. The pull should move freely along the tape. If the pull doesn't slide on easily, check that you have a size #3 pull and not #5. Forcing it can bend the tape or damage the pull.
- Secure the stopper: If you removed the original stopper, pinch a new metal or plastic stopper onto the tape end using pliers. If the stopper is sewn, use a needle and thread to stitch a few tight bars across the tape end. A weak stopper is the most common reason pulls come off. Double-check that your stopper is snug and won't slip past the zipper chain.
- Test the pull: Zip the pull up and down the full length of the tape. It should glide smoothly with no catching. If it sticks, check that the tape isn't twisted and that the stopper isn't pressing against the pull. A new pull that feels stiff may just need a few passes to seat the chain. If it still sticks, the pull may be misaligned — remove and reattach.
Product facts
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Donut Pulls - Size #3: Ultra shiny and durable with a peel-off protector to minimize scratches. Made in an eco-conscious factory. The peel-off film keeps the finish pristine during installation, so you don't have to polish or buff after attaching.
Donut Pulls - Size #3
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Bar Pulls - Size #3: Bar-shaped size #3 pull, non-locking. Also comes with a peel-off protector and is made in an eco-conscious factory. The flat profile sits closer to the fabric, making it less likely to snag on pocket edges or grab handles.
Bar Pulls - Size #3
