Abstract: This invention relates to a method and apparatus for handling tape, such as knit or woven tape employed in the manufacture of zippers, and is more particularly directed to an improved apparatus and method for reeling and dereeling tape.

Abstract: A multiple-needle sewing machine has a presser foot and first and second feed dogs for an upper and a lower layer of the carrier material into a slit of which this slide fastener is to be sewn. An arm is mounted on the sewing machine and can pivot in a horizontal plane between a position in which the material and the slide fastener are placed onto the arm and maintained in a predetermined relationship relative to one another, and a second position in which the material and the slide fastener are supplied, while still being maintained in this predetermined relative position, to the feed dogs which engage the material and advance it as the sewing machine sews the slide fastener to the material.

Abstract: A work guide apparatus for a sewing machine providing a plate moveable in guided engagement with guide means attached to a base surface of the sewing machine. The plate carries a work piece along a path of motion relative to the sewing machine needle, with plate movement being limited by adjustable stop means to correspondingly limit the stitching length. Gauge means extending across the plate accommodates positioning portions of the work piece in a selected spatial relation to a reference line on the plate to control the location of the stitching as required in tacking, pleating, measuring and sizing of draperies.

Abstract: A device for inserting a ribbon beneath the presser foot of a sewing machine for application to a workpiece and for cutting off said ribbon to predetermined length cyclically by automatic or semiautomatic means. The ribbon is fed continuously to the sewing machine during the stitching operation.