Introduction: How to Add a Magnetic Snap to Your Sewing Project

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About: Pretty much all of my interests focus on applying everything that I learn to create usable crafts... usable things... plus learning from others is quite high on my to-do list.

Magnetic snaps are great closures for wallets, bags, pockets and much more. Here is a quick way (one of the many ways) to affix a magnetic snap to a sewing project.

Step 1: Tools and Supplies

These are the basic tools and supplies that you will need:

-  a pair of small needle nose pliers
-  a harp knife
-  small pieces of "sew on" interfacing
-  a piece of heavy fabric (depending on the project, you could use a piece of plastic or cardboard)
-  a magnetic snap (the set comes with four pieces: two circles to help hold the magnets in place and two magnets)
-  your sewing project

Step 2: Measure, Mark and Cut

Use one of the setting circles to mark where you will be putting the magnetic snap. For this specific project, I marked the fabric one inch from the top edge, then intersected that line right at the middle (measuring from both the left and right edge towards the middle). Once you have your centering mark, use the same marking chalk to mark the spaces through which the legs of the magnet will go. Now cut along those two markings.

Note: Use a cutting mat or something else while cutting to protect your work table.

While you are at it, also mark and cut similar slits on the pieces of interfacing and heavy fabric which you will be layering later on to affix the snap.

REMEMBER: Always be very careful when using knives!!

Step 3: Insert and Layer

Depending on which brand and type of magnetic snap you buy, you will see that some times they have edges/surfaces that are a bit sharp and that with time, may damage your project's fabric. In this case, I cut a small piece of interfacing to fit it right against the back surface of the snap.

Now that you cut the small slits for the legs of the snap, go ahead and put the magnet through. Turn the fabric around and you will see the legs of the magnet on the other side.

Tip: If you are using the magnetic snap for a lined sewing project (e.g. a bag, a pocket), apply the snap to the lining before attaching the outside layer of fabric.

Once you have turned the fabric around, insert the piece of interfacing, then the piece of heavy fabric. Remember that those two pieces must be longer than the snap. The purpose of adding those two layers is to protect the lining from getting worn and/or cut by the metal legs of the snap and also to add support to the lining.

Step 4: Bend, Tighten and You Are Done!

Now add the setting circle to the stack and with a pair of needle nose pliers bend the legs of the magnetic snap.

Note: Make sure that you hold the snap, the lining, and the rest tight so the final result is well affixed. Otherwise, your snap will be loose which could damage your lining.

Once you have tighten the legs of the snap, you are done! Well, actually, you are done with one side. Now do the same on the other side of your project to affix the second half of the magnetic snap.

Now you are totally done! Have fun with magnetic snaps.