Chloe Zhang
Plastic snaps are a great alternative to metal snaps as they are just as strong and won't rust or corrode. They are ideal for fabrics that will be laundered often. Plastic snaps are also perfect for thin or lightweight fabrics, such as baby clothing, as they are smaller and lighter. They can be attached using a snap press, pliers, or even a hammer, and are a simple and user-friendly method to add a stylish touch to your fabric projects.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Types | Prong, heavy-duty, plastic, sew-in |
| Plastic snap types | Kam Snaps, Babyville, Kamsnaps |
| Plastic snap use case | Best for kids and baby nappies and clothing |
| Plastic snap advantages | Just as strong as metal snaps, won't rust or corrode |
| Plastic snap advantages | Come in a range of colors, shapes, and styles |
| Plastic snap advantages | Smaller and lighter, ideal for light- to mid-weight fabrics like shirts |
| Plastic snap advantages | Can be hand-sewn, perfect for invisible closure |
| Plastic snap advantages | Can be used on thin fabric with the addition of a stabilizer |
| Plastic snap installation tools | Awl, pliers, snap press, hammer, hole punch, sharp scissors, marking tool |
| Plastic snap installation steps | Mark snap location, create a hole, place the cap, place the receptacle over the post, use snap press |
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What You'll Learn
Choosing the right plastic snap type
When choosing the right plastic snap type, there are several factors to consider, including the thickness of the fabric, the weight of the fabric, and the intended use of the garment or project. Here are some tips to help you select the most suitable plastic snap type for your needs:
Fabric Thickness:
Fabric thickness plays a crucial role in determining the appropriate plastic snap type. If you are working with thin or lightweight fabric, opt for smaller snap sizes, such as size 16 or size 20 snaps. These smaller snaps require less pressure to open, reducing the risk of tearing or damaging delicate fabrics. Additionally, consider using plastic snaps designed for lightweight fabrics, like Babyville plastic snaps, which are suitable for thin materials.
For thicker fabrics, longer prong snaps are recommended. Longer prongs ensure that the snap securely penetrates the fabric and provide a stronger hold. In some cases, you may need to create a pilot hole in very thick fabrics before inserting the snap to facilitate the process.
Fabric Weight:
The weight of the fabric is another important consideration. Plastic snaps are typically designed for light to medium-weight fabrics. If your fabric is too heavy, it may require a different type of snap, such as metal snaps, which are available in larger sizes and can accommodate heavier materials.
Intended Use:
Think about how the garment or project will be used. If it will be laundered frequently, plastic snaps are an excellent choice as they are strong, durable, and resistant to rust and corrosion, unlike metal snaps. Additionally, consider the desired visibility of the snap. Plastic snaps come in various colors and styles, allowing you to match or contrast them with the fabric for a decorative touch.
Project Complexity:
If you are a beginner, opt for plastic snap types that are user-friendly and simple to install. Plastic snaps are generally easier to work with than metal snaps, and you can find kits that include all the necessary tools for installation, such as awls and setting pliers.
By considering these factors, you can choose the right plastic snap type for your project, ensuring a secure and aesthetically pleasing result.
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Selecting the correct tools
Plastic snaps are a great option for fastening fabric, especially if it will be laundered often, as they are strong and will not rust or corrode. They are also ideal for thin, lightweight fabrics, such as those used for baby clothing.
When selecting the correct tools for attaching plastic snaps to fabric, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind. Firstly, you will need to choose the appropriate size of snaps for your fabric. Plastic snaps come in various sizes, with size 16 being easier to open and more suitable for items like onesies, while size 20 is recommended for most other projects.
Secondly, you will need to decide on the type of tool you will use to attach the snaps. For one-off applications, a simple pair of pliers designed for use with snaps can be effective. These often come included with snap sets. If you plan on using multiple snaps, investing in a snap press is advisable. Snap presses can be handheld or tabletop, and they make snap application easier and more secure. However, if you opt for a snap press, you will also need to purchase the correct dies for your snap's size and type, which can increase the cost.
Additionally, you will require a marking tool, such as tailor's chalk, a fabric pen, or a marker, to indicate the snap locations on your fabric. It is important to mark all the spots where the snaps will be visible on the outside of the garment.
For creating holes in the fabric, an awl is a useful tool. An awl can be used to poke a small hole in the fabric, allowing the snap's post to pass through. Awls come in various shank diameters, so choose one suitable for the size of the hole you need. If you are working with thicker fabric, you may need to use a hole punch or sharp scissors to create a larger hole before inserting the snap.
Finally, if you are working with thin fabric, you may need to use a stabilizer or an additional piece of fabric to ensure the snap functions correctly and does not tear the fabric.
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Marking snap locations
First, identify the desired location of the visible part of the snap on the outside of the fabric. This will typically be the side of the fabric that faces outward when the garment is worn. For example, if you are adding snaps to a shirt, you might choose to place the snaps on the right-hand side.
Next, use a marking tool to indicate the exact position of each snap. Common marking tools include tailor's chalk, fabric pens, or markers. Mark all the spots where the snaps will be visible on the outside of the garment. This step ensures that your snaps are placed consistently and symmetrically.
If your fabric is thin or delicate, consider adding a layer of interfacing to the wrong side of the fabric before marking the snap locations. This will provide additional support and help prevent tearing or fraying around the snaps. It is also recommended to use Fray Check or a similar product on the holes before installing the snaps.
When marking the snap locations, keep in mind the size and spacing of the snaps. For smaller snaps, such as plastic snaps, the holes and markings can be closer together. If you are using larger snaps, ensure that you allow for adequate spacing to avoid overcrowding.
Finally, once you have marked the snap locations, use an awl or a hole punch to create small holes at each marked spot. These holes will be used to insert the prongs or posts of the snaps. The awl or hole punch should be chosen based on the size of the snaps and the thickness of the fabric. For thicker fabrics, a hole punch or small scissors may be necessary to create the initial hole.
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Making holes in the fabric
When adding plastic snaps to fabric, you will need to create a hole in the fabric for the snap to go through. This is usually done with an awl, a tool similar to a small chisel, which can be bought as part of a kit with the snaps. If you do not have an awl, there are other tools you can use to make a hole in the fabric.
Firstly, you could use a hammer and a screwdriver to puncture the fabric. However, this method may damage the screwdriver. Alternatively, you could use a sharp wire coat hanger, or a leather punch if you have one. If you have a sewing machine that can make buttonholes, you could also use this to make a small hole.
When using an awl, place it where you want the snap to go and push through the fabric. Then, take the white circle or yellow star backing piece with a prong and push it through the hole. Place the purple female snap, with the purple cup facing up, on top of the prong. The snap should now be sandwiched between the fabric and the snap, with the prong sticking up.
If you are using a different tool to make the hole, follow the same method as above, but be careful not to make the hole too big.
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Attaching the snaps
The first step is to create a hole in your fabric at the marked location. You can use a simple awl to create the hole, which doesn't need to be very large. Place the cap through the hole, ensuring it is on the outside of the fabric. From the other side, you should see the post protruding. Place the receptacle over the post. You can then use a snap press or pliers to attach the snap. If using a snap press, place the fabric over the cap so that the post passes through the hole, and then use the press. If using pliers, place the backing prong through the hole, followed by the fabric, and then the purple female snap, creating a 'sandwich'. Place the backing prong into the snap setting tool and push down, then squeeze the handles of the pliers together.
If your fabric is too thin, you may need to add a stabiliser or an extra piece of fabric to make the snap work. You can use nail clippers to snip the top of the post so that the snap is closer to the fabric. If your fabric is too thick, you may need to use a hole punch to make a pilot hole first, and then insert the prongs of the snaps into the holes. This will help the snap pliers to grip the fabric.
Test the snap function once you have attached it. If you have made a mistake, use a flathead screwdriver and sharp scissors to remove the snap, but be aware that this may damage the fabric.
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Frequently asked questions
Plastic snaps are fasteners that can be added to fabric. They are ideal for thin to medium-weight fabrics and are commonly used for baby clothing and nappies. They are also suitable for shirts and blouses.
Plastic snaps are just as strong as metal snaps but they won't rust or corrode. They are also ideal for items that will be laundered often.
You will need a marking tool such as tailor's chalk to mark the snap locations. You will also need an awl to create a hole in the fabric for the snap, and pliers or a snap press to set the snap in place.
First, mark the location of the snap on the fabric. Then, use an awl to create a hole in the fabric at the marked location. Next, place one cap through the hole so that it is on the outside of the garment, and place the receptacle over the post. Finally, use pliers or a snap press to secure the snap in place.
If your fabric is too thin, you may need to add a stabiliser or a small piece of fabric to make the snap work. You can also use nail clippers to snip the top of the post so that the middle can be pushed down closer to the fabric.
