Slide fastener method of manufacture

A method of forming a reinforcing and finishing strip on the ends of textile tapes of a slide fastener comprising the steps of

• superimposing reinforcing and finishing strip portions on at least one of the front and back sides of end portions of the tapes, the strip portions having an inner layer facing the textile tapes and an outer film laminated to the inner layer, the outer film consisting of a nylon 6 having a melting temperature substantially greater than 163.degree. C., and the inner layer consisting of a blend of a nylon 6 and nylon 6--6 having a melting temperature within the range from 148.degree. to 163.degree. C.,
• engaging the outer film of the strip portions with a heated tool having a temperature within the range from 148.degree. to 163.degree. to heat the strip portion to the melting temperature of the inner layer but below the melting temperature of the outer film, and
• pressing the strip portions by means of the tool onto the end portions of the tapes so that the inner layer is molded into interstices of the tape end portions and in intimate contact with substantial surface portions of the fibers of the tape end portions to securely bond the strip portions to the at least one side of the end portions of the tape with the outer film remaining coherent and generally uniform in thickness.