Metal gripper-style snap fasteners can come in nickel or black finishes.
Small mechanical closures known as snap fasteners or snaps can substitute for buttons on garments and other fabric items, such as pillow covers and slip covers. The post-style snap fastener includes two parts: the ball and the socket. Sewing the ball half to the overlap section and the socket half to the underlap section will make a smooth transition on the fabric's right side with no visible stitching.
Instructions
Stitching
1. Mark the placement of the snap fasteners on the garment with tailor's chalk. For a row of fasteners, marking the fabric with the help of a straight edge will help keep the fasteners in line.
2. Cut approximately 12 inches of thread. Knot one end of the thread. Insert the thread through the needle eye.
3. Hold one part of the snap, the ball half, to the underside of the garment's overlap. Position the snap so it remains invisible from the right side of the garment.
4. Insert the threaded needle into one of the fastener's holes or slots. You may need to angle the needle to keep it between the two layers of fabric. Carefully draw the thread through one layer of fabric without penetrating the exterior layer. Try to keep the stitches inconspicuous.
5. Whipstitch with five or six stitches over the fastener's rim. Repeat this stitching for every hole. This fastener style usually has four holes. Knot the thread, and hide the trimmed thread under the fastener for a neat look.
6. Place the socket half on the right side of the garment's underlap. This socket half should align with the ball half.
7. Insert the threaded needle into the fastener's holes or slots. Repeat Steps 4 and 5.
8. Test the snap by pushing the two halves of the fastener together. If the fabric or garment section hangs crookedly, try repositioning one of the fastener halves for a smoother finish.
Tags: ball half, right side, snap fasteners, socket half, fastener holes