Exploring Magnetic Snaps: Prong vs. Invisible Sew-in Snaps for Bag Mak

Creating your own bags is an incredibly satisfying hobby, giving you the power to customize every aspect of your design. One crucial element, which often gets overlooked, is the closure. Today, we're diving into two fantastic options for bag closures: prong magnetic snaps and invisible sew-in magnetic snaps. Both are functional, stylish, and easy to use, but they each bring their unique flair to your projects.

Prong Magnetic Snaps

Prong magnetic snaps are a popular choice for bag makers due to their simplicity and durability. They consist of two main parts: a male and a female piece, each with prongs that pierce through the fabric and are secured with a washer on the inside.

Why Choose Prong Magnetic Snaps?

Ease of Installation: Prong snaps are incredibly easy to install. You don't need any special tools—just a small pair of scissors or a seam ripper to make tiny slits in the fabric for the prongs, and a pair of pliers to bend the prongs back and secure them with the washer.
Strong Hold: These snaps offer a strong magnetic hold, ensuring that your bag stays securely closed.
Versatility: Available in various sizes and finishes including gold, antique brass, nickel, gunmetal, rose gold, and Tula Pink. Prong snaps can complement any bag design, from casual totes to chic clutches.

How to Install Prong Magnetic Snaps:

Mark the placement: Decide where you want your snap and mark the spots for the prongs on the fabric.
Cut small slits: Use scissors or a seam ripper to make tiny slits at the marked spots.
Insert the prongs: Push the prongs of the snap through the slits from the front of the fabric.
Secure with washer: Place the washer over the prongs on the inside of the fabric and bend the prongs outward to secure it.
Protect with interfacing: Fuse a scrap of interfacing over the wrong side of the hardware over the washer to prevent the hardware from rubbing against your lining fabric.

Patterns for Prong Magnetic Snaps

Invisible Sew-in Magnetic Snaps

Invisible sew-in magnetic snaps are a fantastic alternative if you prefer a clean, seamless look. These snaps are sewn into the lining of your bag, hidden from view, giving your bag a sleek and polished finish.

Why Choose Invisible Sew-in Magnetic Snaps?

Seamless Aesthetic: As these snaps are hidden within the fabric, they provide a smooth and uninterrupted exterior surface, enhancing the overall look of your bag.
Easy to Sew: Invisible snaps come in a lightweight, flat design with small flaps that can be easily sewn onto the fabric. You can use a regular sewing machine or hand stitch them in place.
Professional Finish: These snaps add a touch of professionalism to your projects, making them look store-bought.

How to Install Invisible Sew-in Magnetic Snaps:

Mark the placement: Decide where you want your snap to be and mark the spots on the lining fabric.
Position the snap: Place the snap on the marked spot, ensuring the plastic edges are aligned with the edges of the fabric.
Sew in place: Use a sewing machine to sew the plastic edges to the fabric securely. A zipper foot or narrow foot will help stitch close to the magnetic. Excess plastic can be trimmed away after sewing.

Patterns for Invisible Sew-in Snaps

Choosing the Right Snap for Your Project

When deciding between prong magnetic snaps and invisible sew-in magnetic snaps, consider the following:

Aesthetic: Do you want a visible snap that adds to the design, or do you prefer a hidden closure for a cleaner look?
Installation: Are you comfortable making small cuts in your fabric, or would you rather sew the snap in place?
Bag Type: Think about the type of bag you're making. A casual tote might look great with a bold, visible snap, while a sleek evening clutch might benefit from the invisibility of sew-in snaps.

Both prong magnetic snaps and invisible sew-in magnetic snaps offer unique advantages, allowing you to tailor your bag projects to your personal style and preferences. Happy bag making!

Jess from Sallie Tomato