Magnetic Snap

an essential bag closure

A magnetic snap is one of the easiest and most widely used bag or wallet closures. Depending on the design, a magnetic closure can be completely hidden, only visible at the inside of the bag, have a modest ‘button style’ look, or be a defining look of the bag.

The core of a magnetic snap is a strong, permanent magnet. This magnet is what provides the closure strength and holds the two snap halves together.

These 2 halves are (usually):

Female part: Part with recessed center. The magnet resides inside the female part of the snap.
Male part: Part with raised center.

It is also referred to as: magnetic closure, magnetic button, magnetic clasp

See also: Button Snap

Size Matters

When you buy a magnetic snap, the size that is indicated refers to the diameter of the button. Sizes 14 and 18mm are both common.

The thickness may not always be mentioned (is not important in terms of functionality), but when slim or thin is indicated, this refers to a flat 2mm magnet, with 4mm being the standard style.

For rivet-style magnetic snaps, the post length matters. If the length is greater than the combined thickness of your layers, you will need to add some extra bulk to take up the space. You can use scraps of foam interfacing, leather, or other materials in between your layers.

Question: What other factors are important to consider when selecting a magnetic snap closure?

Answer:

Closure Strength: The magnet’s strength determines how securely the snap holds the bag closed. Stronger magnets provide a more secure closure, which is important for bags that carry heavier or valuable items. Weaker magnets may be suitable for lighter bags.
Ease of Opening: While a strong magnet provides a secure closure, it can also make it more challenging to open the snap, especially for individuals with limited hand strength. So, it’s important to strike a balance between strength and ease of use.
Bag Weight: Consider the weight of the bag and its contents. Heavier bags may require stronger magnetic snaps to ensure they stay closed even when the bag is full.
Quality: The quality of the magnet itself is crucial. High-quality magnets are less likely to lose their magnetic strength over time, ensuring the longevity of your bag’s closure mechanism.
Testing: If possible, test the magnetic snap before purchasing or using it in your bag project. This can give you a better sense of its closure strength and how easy it is to open and close.

Question: Is placement important?

Answer: Yes. You want to make sure both halves of a magnetic closure will meet and stay closed in a bag or wallet. Always determine placement based on the finished bag, and measure twice to avoid mistakes.

For example, if a bag has a flap, make sure you consider how the flap will fold over the bag and where the edge will end up.

For hidden magnets, you want to make sure you have enough room around the clear plastic for your seams or topstitching.

Question: Do I need special tools to install a magnetic snap?

Answer: For prong-style snaps and hidden magnets, you do not need any special tools.

For rivet-style magnetic snaps, you will need a hole punching tool as well as a rivet setting tool (or die set, for a table press) that is precisely designed for that snap in terms of the diameter and shape of the rivet cap.

For designer/decorative magnetic closures, you may need a small screwdriver if any part is secured with set screws.