Using Snap Buttons

By Author: Ador Talukdar
Total Articles: 30
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Snap buttons are simple and effective in their function. The snap buttons usually consist of two or four pieces that are attached to each other and each item is attached to the material that should be affixed to each other. These buttons are identified as any fasteners that attached to each with a snapping sound. The snap indicates that the attachment is secure. When the items area separated, you will also hear a clicking sound.

Snap buttons have been around since the 18th century when they were originally used in lingerie and costumes. They have changed a lot since then, as they now consist of 4 parts and can be accommodated by working with sewing machines, and other automated processes.

Currently, many of the sewing process have options to allow for the attaching of snap buttons. Even precision based instrument that include tool and die operations, include the facility to these buttons with a high level of precision.

Two common styles of snap buttons that are currently available are the post and prong style snaps. The post-style snap includes a shaft that for penetrating the fabric. The prong-style snap ...
... includes teeth-like prongs. The choice will depend on personal preference and the type of fabric that is to be attached.

Generally prong-style snap buttons work well with knit or loosely woven fabrics, such as polar fleece garments, cardigans, uniforms, children's wear, lightweight jackets, and sleepwear. The post style snaps are better for thicker and synthetic fabrics. Because these fabrics may be more resistant, you can use them on leather and denim clothing or even on bag and purses.

When using snap buttons, it is best to avoid intermixing buttons from different manufacturers, because each manufacturer has its own specifications which may not be fully compatible with others.

Perhaps the most important step in preparing the fabric is to ensure that the fabric includes an interface to which the snap can be attached. The interface should be non-fusible and made of tightly woven fabric, such as cotton, or muslin, and best results are obtained when the material has been pre-shrunk.

Replacing regular buttons with snap can be an interesting project and may also enhance the appearance of many items such as blouses, shirts or jackets. It is easy to replace buttons on a shirt or blouse with prong-style snap by attaching studs in the original button position. The buttonhole can be partially covered.

You can also use a series of snap in place of zippers, but the interface must be added for reinforcement, before the snaps are attached.

One of the best combinations is the use of polar fleece fabric and prong-style snap buttons. The design should be completed before the garment is completely manufactured, and the best interface can be made of lightweight fabric that can be coordinated with the design pattern. However, for proper reinforcement of the snaps, it may require multiple layers of the fabric. Because the fabric is lightweight, the bulk will be reduced, while the reinforcement properties are maintained.

Snap buttons are an effective and attractive method to attach fabric. Different types of snap buttons can be used in different combination, and they should be chosen carefully.