Paracord Zipper Pull / Charm

This zipper pull print can add a custom decorative flair to an otherwise boring bag, backpack, or jacket. However, it's use is not limited to just zipper pulls. It can also be used as a:

• Keychain
• Pull chain finial
• Luggage charm
• Low-effort friendship bracelet
• Medal for dolls and action figures
• Fidget toy
• Wrist strap
• And more!

The zipper pull prints very quickly and can be customized with different colors. The entire print takes about 15 minutes and uses about 1.5 grams of plastic. There are two styles available: a round shape and an angled shape. The length of the paracord loop can also be customized to your particular application.

Paracord Preparation

This pull is designed to use 1/8 in. or 3 mm diameter paracord. You don't need to use high strength rope; just make sure it looks good! A roll about 160 feet long costs around $10, so you'll be able to make many, many zipper pulls.

The formula for determining the correct length of the paracord in inches is Y = X* 2 + 2.5 where X is the desired loop length when stretched out and Y is the necessary length of the paracord.

For example: if I want a zipper pull with a loop of 3 inches, I would need to cut a length of paracord that is 8.5 inches.

PROTIP: Don't make the loop smaller than 2 inches. It's really hard to knot effectively.

After cutting the paracord, make sure to run the cut ends QUICKLY through a flame to prevent the cord from unraveling. I removed the core strands of the rope as well. It makes the cord much more flexible and easier to work with.

Tie the knot close to the ends of the rope, and be sure to pull it tight.

If the knot looks good, you can run it QUICKLY through a flame to set the knot permanently.

If the knot is too large, it can be flattened out with a hammer, pliers, or even a calibration cube. Simply apply pressure and roll the cube back and forth until the knot is flatter.

Printing

• Nozzle: 0.4 mm
• Layer Height: 0.2 mm
• Infill: 25%
• Vertical Shells: 3
• Top/Bottom Layers: 5
• Supports: No

You'll need one bead and two caps.

For the caps, try the TightCap style first. If it's too big, then try the LooseCap.

There are two styles of beads: RoundBead and AngleBead. RoundBead is a more organic, smooth shape, while AngleBead is a more mechanical, structured shape.

Make sure you have calibrated your e-steps and have excellent bed adhesion. If your e-steps are too high, then the caps won't fit the bead. Because the beads have a very small footprint, you need to have good bed adhesion or use some adhesive (glue stick, hair spray, MagiGoo, Bed Weld, etc.).

Assembly

1. Push the loop of rope from the center to the outside of the bead. It can be difficult to fit the rope through the small hole, so a wire or paperclip can be used to "fish" the cord through.
2. Snap the caps on either side of the bead. These do take some force, so be careful. I suggest putting a cap on the table, placing the bead on top, and then applying force from above. The cap will make an audible snap when it's fully inserted.
3. Check out the last two photos for installation instructions.