As you gain sewing experience, you start thinking about more complex future projects, such as those that include closure systems like snaps, zippers...

Today, I invite you to discover snaps: this very simple and fun haberdashery supply to use!

What is a snap?

Snaps are part of the closure systems used in sewing, among which are buttons, zippers, velcro, laces, hooks...
The snap consists of two stamped pieces that are fixed together by pressure (hence their name).  

They are widely used in sewing because they have many advantages:

• easy to attach 
• give a nice result quickly (very satisfying)
• generally good value for money
• multi-purpose (can be used for making clothing, underwear, accessories...)

Types of snaps

There are many types of snaps and they can be classified in different ways, according to:

• their size (diameter)
• their shape (round, stars, hearts...)
• their composition (resin or metal)
• their method of placement (to be attached with the clip or sewn by hand)

We can distinguish two main dedicated categories: metal snaps and resin snaps.

Metal snaps are always round, while you will find more original shapes for resin snaps. Indeed, there are resin snaps in heart and star shapes; which can add a touch of originality to an accessory, a child's sewing project, and even for adults. In such cases, they are sometimes used purely for decorative purposes, much like a pretty button. 

Similarly, resin snaps are available in a wide range of colors from the brightest to the most classic. There are also silver and bronze shades that mimic metal. 

Resin snaps come in several sizes:

• T5 = 12mm, 
• T3 = 10mm, 
• T8 = 15mm, 
• T1 = 9.5mm.

Size T5 is the most commonly used because it most often meets the needs of sewists (especially to replace buttons in a creation). It is also the size of stars and hearts, which are only sold in 12mm size. 

Metal snaps are also available in several sizes. They offer larger sizes than resin ones, for example for making anoraks or outerwear.... 

They come in several metal colors; most often: silver or bronze, but black and gold are becoming available. Metal snaps can also be purchased in pearly and hollow (recessed) forms.

To attach snaps, there are two techniques: either with a clip (or hammer) or sewing them by hand (only valid for metal snaps designed for that). 

There are several types of clips: Kam clips for resin snaps and Prym vario clips for metal snaps. 

I chose to offer you Kam clips and resin snaps in the shop because they are:

• less expensive to buy the clip and also the snaps
• they offer a wide range of colors compared to metal snaps
• they are sturdy and last over time

How to attach snaps?

First of all, if you have never attached snaps before, practice first before placing your first snap on your project. Even though placing snaps is quite simple, nothing beats a test on a scrap of the same fabric as your project. 

Instructions:

1. Determine the snap placement on the two fabric pieces (in principle, you should be able to align the two markings on the fabric pieces perfectly)

2. Take out your snap clip and the 4 parts (2 caps, one male part, and one female part). Note, the cap is the visible part of your snap; it should be on the right side of your fabric for the visible part of the garment (for example, the front of a cardigan). 

3. make a small hole in your fabric where you will place your snap. You can use a punch (best option), an awl, or scissors. If your fabric is thin, it’s good to reinforce the area where the snap will be placed plus a few centimeters around it to strengthen the fabric and prevent it from tearing or wearing out over time due to the pressure from opening and closing the snaps. 

4. Position your pieces on either side of the hole you just made (a cap with a male or female part)

5. place your clip (make sure you have the correct tips) on the two parts facing each other and press  

6. repeat the steps with the other fabric piece by selecting the other cap and the remaining male or female part. Be careful to place both snap parts in the correct direction so that in the end the male and female sides face each other, not the caps!

7. Ta-da, your snap is in place! You can test it.