How to Apply Magnetic Purse Closures

When making a purse or handbag the time comes when you must decide which kind of closure to use. Magnetic snaps are a simple solution that don't snag or come loose with normal wear. Attaching the two pieces of the magnetic snaps appears complicated, but is much simpler than sewing a on a button hole and button. Use interfacing to help keep the snap steady. Standard interfacing works well for sturdy fabrics. Use a small piece of canvas or other heavy fabric to interface thin or knitted fabrics.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Scissors
• Interfacing
• Pins
• Magnetic snaps
• Fabric pencil
• Pliers

1. Attach snaps to the lining for the purse before you sew it into the outer shell of the bag. If the lining is already sewn in, leave the the seam open on the flaps where the magnetic snaps go to access the area between the lining and the shell.

2. Cut out two squares of interfacing 1 inch larger than the snaps. Line them up on the back side of the lining where you want your snaps to go and pin in place.

3. Lay the washer section of the snap on top of the interfacing and mark two slits with a fabric pencil. Repeat for the other side of the purse.

4. Cut open the slits that you marked for the two parts of the snap through both the interfacing and lining. Slip the prongs of each snap through the corresponding slits so they emerge on the back side of the lining.

5. Slip the washer over the prongs and bend the prongs outward using your fingers or a pair of pliers if they are too stiff.

6. Stitch the interfacing to the fabric if it seems as if the snap is not secure enough, which happens at times with thinner fabric. Finish sewing the lining into your purse as usual.

Tips & Warnings

• Iron-on interfacing is available and works best with heavier fabrics.
• Do not sew over the snap as it will break your sewing machine needle and possibly break the machine.

References

• Hello Knitty