How to Replace Pearl Snaps

Pearl snaps are used in many different ways.

Pearl snaps refer to the pearl-like finish on the top of the snap.The term "pearl" is somewhat of a misnomer, since the snap is rarely made from pearls; instead, the "pearl" refers to the finish on the top of the snap. These snaps are made to be seen. They are very popular as the closures on fancier Western wear, either on the torso or on the cuff. They are also seen on hats, purses, bags, and sometimes as decorative additions to denim. It is possible for the pearl part of the snap to break or become worn. Replacing them takes very few tools and little knowledge of sewing.

Things You'll Need

• Flathead screwdriver
• Pearl snaps
• Snap tool repair kit
• Hammer
• Snap pliers

Instructions

1. Remove the broken snap from the fabric by using a flat head screwdriver. Carefully pry under the snap and use the screwdriver as a lever to pop off the snap. Be careful not to rip the cloth fabric. Remove the socket (the part that the snap snaps into) the same way.

2. Insert a snap into the snap tool, according to instructions upon the package. Snaps have teeth on the bottom. These teeth help hold the bottom of the snap to the fabric.

3. Layer the fabric so that the disc is on the bottom, the fabric is in the middle, and the plastic snap tool is on top. Hammer it into place. In effect, you are applying two snaps to the fabric; the top part with the metal stud and the socket with which the stud is inserted to causes the "snap" sound. Squeeze with the snap pliers so that the snap is pressed firmly into the fabric. Snap pliers look somewhat like a single hole punch, only instead of punching a hole, they serve to press the snap onto the fabric.

4. Repeat Step 4 with the pearl side of the snap. Insert the stump ring (included in the package) onto a groove of a snap button. Squeeze pliers once more to safeguard that the snap is secure.

References

• Sew Mama Sew; Pearl Prong Western Snaps Tutorial; Sept. 29, 2009