I used zippers once (when I rented time on a machine at a store). I don't find them helpful - it's too tricky to get the backing completely square and pinned to the two zippers so that it is straight when loaded onto the frame. I prefer to pin my quilts directly to my leaders - although if I could get leader grips or red snappers here in Canada for a reasonable price, I'd probably jump at the chance. Hmm... anyone know a quilt shop near Grand Rapids, Michigan that might carry them?