Snaps are not one-size-fits-all. If your snaps are too long for your fabric, they won't close properly. If they're too short, they'll fall off. For this reason, it's important to choose the proper size / length for your material.
Which size works best for you will depend on a number of variables, such as the fabric you are using, its density and compression levels, how hard you are able to press, and your own personal preference. For these reasons, we are unable to provide specific size recommendations for every scenario.
------>>>>>> Download a printable pdf file showing each snap in its true-to-lifesize.
Dimensions of Size 20 Snap Parts
The 3 most commonly used sizes, in the order of popularity, are:
Size 20 regular length
Size 20 extra long (for thicker material)
Size 16 regular length (for thinner material)
Size 20 (12.4mm or 1/2" cap diameter)
Size 20 Regular Length (5.6mm prong) is often used for lightweight to mid-weight fabric that isn't prone to tearing including baby diapers, menstrual pads, bibs, regular clothing, and household projects. This is the most popular size of plastic snaps and is a good size to start with for most projects since most commonly used fabric fall within the desired thickness for this length. This size has a strong grip so if you're working with more delicate fabric at risk of tearing, consider size 16.
------>>>>>> Click here for sizing tips for baby & toddler clothing.
Size 20 Extra Long (6.2mm prong) is recommended for slightly thicker & denser material like double layers of standard marine vinyl for key fobs, medium weight leather, and chinese prefold diapers. (Some versions of these material may be so thick that they'll need larger/longer snaps.)
Size 20 Extra Short (4.6mm prong) is good for thinner material where you still want a good, strong grip such as baby diapers made with just 1-2 layers of PUL.
Size 16 (10.7mm or 7/16" cap diameter)
Size 16 Regular Length (4.6mm prong) is most commonly used for projects that require a looser grip, such as doll clothes or reinforced stretch jersey.
Size 16 Extra Long is available in lengths ranging from 5.2mm - 7.2mm long for thicker material.
Size 14 (9.7mm or 3/8" cap diameter)
Size 14 Regular Length (3.5mm prong) is extremely short and should only be used on very thin material, usually single layers. The overall height of a complete size 14 plastic snap is about 9mm.
Size 14 Extra Long (5.0mm prong) for situations when the regular length is not long enough such as when you have more layers or thickness.
Size 22 (14.1mm or 9/16" cap diameter, 7.0mm prong)
A larger snap which can be used in similar situations as size 20 long-prong, or in situations where size 20 long-prong is still a little too short.
Size 24 (14.8mm or 9/16" cap diameter, 7.5mm prong)
Our largest, strongest snap which should only be used in very heavy duty applications with thicker material such as canvas tote bags, nylon webbing, dense leather and thick jackets. Because the grip is so strong, it can tear through more commonly used fabric.
I bought this snap press so I could add snaps to my kitchen towels. I used coordinating snap colors too, and am pleased with how they turned out.
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Jennifer Marsh
Game changer!
This press is a game changer. I was putting my snaps on with an hand press. This is so much better. My snaps are perfect. I haven't even accidentally smashed an outie piece. I was doing that all the time with the small hand press. If you are looking, my advice is just buy it. You won't regret it!
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Annette Lanham
One tool - Lots of uses
Bought this originally to make 'unpaper towels' with and have found so many other uses for it. Press is heavy duty, but easy to use. Would recommend to anyone looking to purchase a press to go with the table press over the hand pliers.
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jana wollman
KAM press
I just love the KAM press its the most useful tool right now that i use for sewing!!! Don't know what i would do without it you don't get tired when putting in snaps. (Which you do when using a plier)Just LOVE it!!!
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Sarah
Awesome press!!
I highly recommend this table top press bundle for any and all those who are using the plastic snaps. I make cloth diapers and it makes putting the snaps on so much faster. It is heavy and so that helps with applying the pressure. This product is great.