Why You Should Skip Snap Pliers and Press Tools
In my sewing career, it is surprising that I have not used metal snap buttons very often. When I finally tried to attach metal snap buttons using the pliers that came with the kit, the result was disappointing. The baby dungarees I made ended up with sharp metal prongs sticking through the snap caps, making the garment unsafe for a baby.
Then I figured out that was because the way the snap pliers work, There is a design fault that the two ends of the pliers come together on an angle rather than straight ahead. This means, no matter how many times you try, you just cannot avoid the metal snaps to be attached wrongly. This is why many home sewists look for safer alternatives to install metal snap fasteners without pliers or a press tool. This is a common problem when using snap pliers, especially with lightweight fabrics and baby sewing projects.
I am all about frugal habits and did not want to chuck the whole bunch of metal snap buttons in the bin or buy the more expensive metal snap die sets, so I had to devise a plan. I needed a reliable way to attach metal snap buttons without a tool, using simple household items that apply even pressure. This no-tool snap button method is ideal for occasional sewing and home DIY projects.
If you make or intend to make items with metal snaps in large quantities, then the best option is to invest in a proper hand press.
Types of Metal Snap Buttons This Method Works For
This method works with standard metal snap buttons that have spiky prong caps designed to lock into metal studs and sockets. These are the most common metal snap fasteners used in clothing, baby items, and reusable sewing projects. The method will not work with plastic snaps that require the cap prongs to be squashed down to secure.
Tools You Need (All Household Items)
To attach metal snap buttons at home without special tools, you will need:
- A flat, hard surface you do not mind scratching (wooden chopping board, ceramic coaster, or glass board)
- A hand-held tool with a flat end (flat-head screwdriver, small hammer, or flat-bottom mug)
Why Snap Pliers Often Damage Metal Snaps
If you observe mechanics of snap pliars that often come with the metal snap button sets, you will note one important thing. The two ends of the snap pliers do not meet head on. There is a gap at one end when the first edge meets.
This inevitably means that the spikes of the metal snap buttons on one side will be pushed to a side, resulting in a sharp metal bit sticking out and rendering the garment unsafe (it would be like carrying a cat with protracted claws at all times).
This uneven pressure is the main reason metal snap button prongs poke through the snap cap.
Step-by-Step: How to Attach Metal Snap Buttons Without a Tool
Step 1 – Mark and Prepare the Fabric
Following the sewing instructions for the garment that you are making, mark the locations of the snap button. If there are multiple buttons to be attached, make sure that the locations of the studs correlate with the locations of the sockets. It is easier if you attach either studs or sockets first and then mark the location for the matching socket or stud, by closing the previous stud and socket pair.
Accurate placement is essential when installing snap buttons without a press tool
Step 2 – Insert the Prongs Correctly
Then gently push the spiky metal cap through the fabric until the prongs are visible on the other side. It is important that you do it gently to not to bend the spikes prematurely.
You should see all metal prongs sticking out evenly before setting the snap.
Step 3 – Attach the Snap Socket or Stud
Next, place the garment on your chosen flat surface with the prongs facing up. Align the socket on top. You do not need to hold it in place, it just needs to be sitting on the prongs. You can breath at this stage, despite the looks, the socket will stay on top.
I am using the flat end of a screwdriver handle as a pressing tool to set the metal snap button evenly. This method mimics a snap press by applying flat, controlled pressure. So, I position the end of the screwdriver’s handle above the socket and then gently but firmly push it down. After the initial push, press down the household tool quite firm to secure the snap button in place.
The metal snap button has been set in place without the prongs sticking out in the middle.
Repeat with the metal studs. With the studs you need to be careful as the tool may slip off the stud if you are too firm.
If you want to and feel that you need to, you can use the pliers at this stage to press down the metal snaps further. I tried that but I found no difference in the outcome.
Best Surfaces to Use (And What to Avoid)
I am using the ceramic coaster as the surface as that was the closest surface that I had to hand and I was too lazy to go downstairs for a clean chopping board. However, a wooden chopping board is a lot safer as there is some friction to keep the metal snap cap in place, and therefore is the best surface for setting metal snap buttons at home without a press tool. Alternatively, you can use the self healing cutting mat.
You do want to avoid placing the caps directly on the table as the metal parts can easily scratch the surface or slip.
Tips for Perfect Results Every Time
You need to apply the pressure evenly and lightly at the start when setting the metal snap buttons. This will reduce any accidental bending of the prongs and will give you a good base to apply stronger and firmer pressure.
Once you have installed the snap buttons, test them by slightly lifting the cap away from the fabric. Properly installed metal snap buttons should feel secure and smooth on both sides. If it stays in place, then you are all set.
When You Might Still Need a Press Tool
If you are going to make many garments or projects with metal snap buttons, the press tool will become necessary to make the button attachment quicker. I am using the metal snap buttons only occasionally so I am not going to invest in the press tool dies as this method works perfectly fine.
However, if the projects require a lot thicker materials, such as leather or canvas with several layers, then the press tool will also be required to squash the metal prongs securely into the studs and sockets to reduce the risk of snap buttons coming undone over time.
Best Sewing Projects for No-Tool Snap Buttons
This metal snap button setting method works great on reusable items, baby accessories and home sewing and repair projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion: Safer, Cleaner Snap Buttons Without Special Tools
In the past, I avoided projects that required metal snap buttons, but this no-tool method has completely changed that. The metal snap buttons are inserted safely and securely without sharp metal prongs sticking out.
This method allows you to attach metal snap buttons safely and securely without pliers or a press tool, and without sharp metal prongs sticking out. If you enjoyed this tutorial, my post on how to sew an absorbent baby bib is a great next project that uses metal snaps.
