Zipper Pull

This is an updated version of a previously-published Instructable. I have included a bill of materials which may help you with ordering supplies.

Tools

1. Saw
2. Mallet
3. File (or sandpaper)

Materials

1. Cup Hook (7/8")
2. PVC Tee Fitting (Threaded 3/4" x 3/4" x 1/2" Reducing Tee)
3. Duct Tape
4. Wooden Dowel (3/4" diameter)

Bill of Materials

You can experiment with different lengths for different purposes. My "regular" size is five inches long, but I'm making them for kids. You may want a longer section of dowel depending on the user's needs. For example, if someone is going to use this for zipping up a dress then it will need to be much longer.

Use a file or sandpaper to remove rough edges from the dowel.

I used duct tape to make the dowel fit tightly in the PVC fitting. I marked off where the dowel entered the main part of the fitting. Then I wrapped duct tape around the dowel beneath the mark. I tore the duct tape in half lengthwise because that was more than enough for the entire PVC fitting.

Finding the right amount of tape to wrap around the dowel was a matter of trial and error. I would wrap some duct tape, try shoving the dowel into the fitting, and then add more until I got a snug fit.

If you use a threaded PVC fitting then the grooves in the fitting should bite into the duct tape and help hold it in place. If you use an unthreaded PVC fitting, then you may need to use a mallet to drive the dowel deeper into the fitting for a snug hold.

Screw a cup hook onto the end of the dowel to complete the zipper pull.