installation instructions FAQ & sizing
  • Illustrated clutch bag with closeup of turnlock
  • Illustrated wallet with closeup of oval flip lock

    • TURN LOCK

    an essential bag closure

    A turn lock is a very elegant and secure closure, commonly used for bags with a flap. They come in various sizes and styles: round, rectangular, elongated, and even fun shapes.

    Two parts make up a turn lock: the base and the turning mechanism. The base has an opening for the turning mechanism; the turning mechanism goes through the opening and then turns to secure the lock.

    There are a few installation methods for turn locks, depending on the style. In all cases, you need to take great care installing a turn lock, because the base is installed after the bag is completed. The base is typically applied to the moving part of the bag (e.g., the flap). Both the top side and underside of the base are visible in the completed bag, and so, are finished nicely.

    The turning mechanism is usually fixed in place on a bag and installed with prongs that are not visible in the finished bag.

    It is also referred to as: twist lock

    Size Matters

    Though turn locks are typically sold by style rather than size, the dimensions are important!

    When selecting a style, you should look at the inside and outside dimensions. If you want to use the turn lock on particularly thick layers, make sure the height/depth will work.

    Ideally, you want to know both inside and outside measurements: first, to know what size and shape hole you need to make, and second, to ensure you have enough material surrounding the lock once installed.

    Illustration of oval turn lock sizing

    Question: How big should the hole be for installing a turn lock?

    Answer: You should punch a hole that is sized so that the turn lock can just fit through. It’s better to make it too small — you can always enlarge the hole, but you can’t shrink it!

    Question: Can I remove and reinstall a turn lock if I mess up?

    Answer: Yes and no. You can remove and reuse a screw-in turn lock (before the glue sets, if you used glue).

    For force-fit turn locks, it’s very difficult or even impossible. You can possibly remove one using nippers to bend and/or cut one side to release the other, but you won’t be able to use that turn lock again. You will need to use a fresh turn lock.

    You also need to get the center hole exactly right! There are no second chances with hole size or placement. For screw-in turn locks, the screw hole placement needs to be accurate, too.

    Common Styles

    • Turn locks can be elegant, practical, fun, big, small, blingy, or minimal. There are endless options!

    How to Apply

    Your bag is almost finished. All that remains is to cut a hole in the beautifully finished flap to add a clasp. Does that make your hands clammy?

    Fear not, because with this “force fit” twist lock, you can’t miss! The bottom part of this closure, unlike most others, doesn’t use screws (where you have to cut away extra fabric to make room for the screws).

    The lock is designed so that the top and bottom will clamp together by tapping them firmly with a hammer (use a rubber hammer and protect your buckle from scratches with a piece of (faux) leather). Make sure there is enough “padding” between the layers to completely fill the space between the top and bottom.

    Select one of the options below to view a video tutorial.

    Inspiration