To perform this repair, we will first remove the "top stop" of the zipper. This is piece of plastic at the top of the zipper, which is slightly larger than the other zipper teeth.

Important: This procedure will permanently remove this part of the zipper and we will replace it with a thick knot instead. Do not perform this repair if you do not wish to cause this type of damage/repair.

Use sturdy scissors, or preferably pliers, to remove the top stop. Take care not to damage the surrounding material or zipper teeth; and take care with your fingers!

Note: For this guide, we have demonstrated on a plastic top-stop. Some zippers may have a metal top-stop, which can be carefully removed by un-bending, and re-attached at the end.

Once the top stop is removed, keep it to one side, for referring to later when making the replacement knot.