How to Use Plastic Snap Buttons for Kids' Craft Projects

Quick answer

To attach plastic snap buttons for kids' crafts, use a snap fastener tool or a hammer and snap setter. Mark your fabric, punch a small hole, insert the snap parts, and press or hammer them together. For no-sew projects, choose snap buttons with prongs that fold over the fabric, or use adhesive-backed snaps for paper crafts.

Choosing the right plastic snaps for your project

Plastic snap buttons come in two main types: prong snaps and sew-on snaps. Prong snaps have small teeth that pierce the fabric and fold over, making them ideal for no-sew projects like felt animals, doll clothes, and costumes. Sew-on snaps have holes for stitching and work well on woven fabrics that will be washed frequently. For kids' crafts, prong snaps are usually the better choice because they are quick to attach and secure.

Size matters: standard size 20 snaps (about 12mm) are the most common and work for most kids' projects. Smaller size 16 snaps suit delicate doll clothes, while larger size 24 snaps can handle thicker fabrics like fleece or denim. If you're unsure, start with a variety pack that includes multiple colors and sizes.

Tools you need (and what to use if you don't have them)

A snap fastener tool or snap pliers make the job fast and consistent, but you can also use a hammer and snap setter. For prong snaps, you only need a small awl or hole punch to make a starter hole, plus a hard surface. If you're using a hammer, place a scrap of wood or a cutting mat underneath to protect your table and to get a clean set.

No-sew snap buttons with adhesive backing are available for paper crafts and temporary projects, but they won't hold up to repeated opening and closing. For durable kids' items, stick with prong snaps and a setting tool.

Step-by-step: attaching plastic snaps

1. Mark the placement: Use a fabric marker or chalk to mark where the snap halves will go. For a shirt or bag, close the item and mark the center of the overlap. 2. Make a hole: Use an awl or hole punch to create a small hole just big enough for the snap's post. 3. Insert the snap: Push the male half (the stud) through the hole from the front, and the female half (the socket) from the back. 4. Set the snap: Use your snap tool or hammer and setter to press the parts together until they click. Test the snap before moving on.

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

The most common mistake is making the hole too large, which causes the snap to pull through. Always start with a hole smaller than the snap post and enlarge only if needed. Another mistake is using the wrong snap half on the wrong side—double-check that the stud and socket align before setting. Finally, don't hammer too hard; excessive force can crack plastic snaps. A firm, even press is enough.

Project ideas for colorful snap buttons

Plastic snap buttons come in a rainbow of colors, so you can match them to your project or use them as a design feature. Try them on felt play food, dress-up capes, quiet books, and doll diapers. For a no-sew project, use snaps to close a felt pencil case or a fabric book cover. You can also use snaps to attach interchangeable embellishments like bows or badges.

Step-by-step snap attachment

1. Mark the snap placement: Close the fabric overlap and use a fabric marker to mark where the snap halves will sit. Check that the marks align when the item is closed. Mistake to avoid: marking on the wrong side of the fabric, which puts the snap on the inside.
2. Punch a starter hole: Use an awl or small hole punch to make a hole just big enough for the snap post. Start smaller than you think you need. Checkpoint: the hole should be snug; if the post wiggles, the hole is too big.
3. Insert the snap halves: Push the male half (stud) through from the front and the female half (socket) from the back. Make sure they are on the correct sides. Mistake to avoid: swapping the halves, which makes the snap unusable.
4. Set the snap: Use a snap tool or hammer and setter to press the parts together until they click. Apply firm, even pressure. Checkpoint: test the snap by opening and closing it a few times before moving on.

Product facts

• Plastic Snap Buttons - 360 Snaps/24 Colors For Making Fun Projects!: This organizing box contains 360 plastic snap buttons in 24 colors, with 15 snaps of each color, all standard size 20. You get a wide color selection for multiple kids' projects without running out of a single color, and the box keeps everything sorted.