At Pop-UP Studio in Nashville, TN, Let’s Talk About Zips, Baby! is a focused, hands-on workshop that turns the humble zipper into a practical skill set. In two hours, a small cohort (up to eight guests) moves beyond fumbling repairs to confidently choose, insert, and replace zippers across fabrics and garment types. The class covers invisible, coil, plastic teeth, and metal zippers and teaches lapped, centered, invisible, and exposed insertion techniques through demonstration and practice. What makes this session stand out for Nashville visitors is its machine-driven learning model: participants bring their own home sewing machine—complete with the foot pedal and power cord—so troubleshooting happens on the exact equipment you use at home. The instructor supplies prepared, interfaced fabric and two zippers per student for guided practice, while students are expected to arrive with essentials: the sewing machine plus foot pedal with cord, power cord, instruction manual (or online link), 1–2 loaded bobbins, all the little metal feet included (especially the main one & a zipper foot), sewing machine needles (universal style fit most home machines and I’ll bring some extra), 1–2 spools of thread, and Make sure you have a zipper foot to fit YOUR machine. If you don’t, look into ordering a universal zipper foot that will work with your machine in time for the class. If you have an invisible zipper foot also, please bring it. A universal zipper foot is suggested if your model requires one. This is a pragmatic, project-first environment. You’ll learn when to pick a coil over a metal tooth, how to adapt techniques for outerwear or lightweight lining, and how to replace a failing zipper without sacrificing a hem or seam. The small group size creates time for individualized troubleshooting—alignment issues, zipper length adjustments, and foot compatibility questions are encouraged. Beyond the immediate payoff—functional repairs and neater finishes—the class plugs visitors into Nashville’s growing maker culture. It’s a practical complement to exploring local fabric shops, costume studios, and DIY meetups. Whether you’re a traveler who wants to mend a favorite jacket between concerts or a resident building a home-sewing skillset, this course reduces waste and keeps garments in play. Expect a fast pace: bring a machine you know how to power on, and arrive with bobbins loaded and thread in hand. The teacher will demo two insertion methods in class; leave ready to continue practice at home. Meeting point: Pop-UP Studio, Nashville, TN. Age minimum: 10. Group size: up to 8 guests. Duration: 2 hours. This tight, useful class is ideal for anyone ready to trade zipper anxiety for reliable technique. Students often leave with a small mending plan tailored to their wardrobe and notes on which local shops stock specialty zippers and replacement parts. The instructor addresses common machine quirks and will show how to modify zipper length, add stops, and sew around bulky seams. No previous advanced skills required—beginners who can operate a basic sewing machine will thrive. Bring curiosity and an accurate machine manual and spare bobbins.