How do I Attach Magnetic Purse Closures?

Attach a magnetic closure to keep items in your purse secure.

Purses come with a variety of closures, including zippers, toggles, buttons and magnetic snaps. Magnetic purse closures come in many colors and sizes, and they provide stability because of the magnet in the snaps. These closures are available at craft and fabric stores and also online. They come with two closures that snap into each other and two washers that attach to the back of the snaps. Attaching your own magnetic closure to a purse is a simple way to add a touch of style.

Things You'll Need

• Magnetic snap (3/4 inch)
• Plastic canvas
• Scissors
• Pliers
• Needle
• Thread
• Lining

Instructions

1. Cut two plastic canvas squares. The squares should be 2 inches each, slightly bigger than the 3/4-inch magnetic snap closures.

2. Mark the midpoint of the purse lining using a felt tip pen. Cut two small slits in the fabric at the midpoint.

3. Push one piece of the metal purse closure through the slits in the purse. The prongs should be on the inside or "wrong side" of the purse lining.

4. Slide one square of plastic canvas onto the prongs. The plastic canvas will hold the magnetic snap in place and provide stability to the closure. Place one of the washers over the prongs, and bend the prongs either inward or outward; either way is correct. Use pliers to bend the prongs if it is too difficult to do with your fingers.

5. Repeat the same process of attaching the snap, plastic canvas and washer on the opposite side of the purse.

6. Sew the plastic canvas square to the purse. Stitch the top and two sides of the plastic canvas to the purse with a needle and thread. Repeat this process on the opposite side.

7. Sew the lining to the purse with a needle and thread. This will hide the back of the magnetic closure from view.

Tips & Warnings

• The magnetic closure should be attached before you sew the lining in the purse.

• Use a thread that matches the color of the purse or transparent thread to sew the plastic canvas to the purse.

References

• Hello Knitty: Attaching Magnetic Snaps
• Lee's Crafts and Things: How to Install Magnetic Snaps