Abstract: A method and apparatus for applying a zipper to a length of material. The system involves the feeding of the material to a sewing machine while simultaneously locating separate zipper tape sections on the material whereby the tape sections are attached to the material. These sections are attached with the teeth supporting edges thereof facing outwardly and with the opposite edges thereof facing inwardly and being positioned adjacent each other. The material is then cut along a line adjacent these opposite edges whereby the material is formed into separate pieces. Thereafter, the teeth supporting edges are folded back toward each other whereby the material can be rejoined by the zipper. The apparatus preferably includes a spreading device to hold the opposite edges of the zipper in spaced relationship during the cutting operation whereby the cutter will not engage the tape. The zipper sections are preferably fed from a source which involves joined sections.