How to Set Snap Buttons at Home: Choosing the Right Snap Press Machine Set

Snap buttons — also called press studs or poppers — are everywhere: on jackets, baby clothes, western shirts, work wear and bags. They open and close with a satisfying click, they are faster than buttons, and they give a clean, professional finish. The problem for a first-time buyer is simple: the moment you start shopping, you run into S-spring, ring-spring, alfa, prong, line 20, 54 system, 61 system… and it is not obvious which one you actually need.

This guide clears that up. We will explain the common snap types in plain language, show you what a good snap press machine set should contain, and help you choose between a full machine kit and a die-only set.

Why use a snap press machine instead of pliers or a hammer?

You can set snaps with cheap pliers or a hammer-and-anvil kit, but most beginners quickly get frustrated: crushed caps, crooked studs, snaps that pop off after a few uses. A hand press machine fixes this. You place the snap, pull the lever once, and it seats perfectly every time — no hammering, no guesswork. It is the same tool professionals use, scaled down for home and small-workshop use.

Even better, a hand press is not limited to snaps. With the right die you can also set rivets, eyelets, grommets and jeans buttons on the same machine — so it grows with your projects.

Snap button types explained (in plain English)

Here are the snap types you will actually meet, and what each is best for. You do not need to memorise the numbers — just find the row that matches your project.

• S-spring snaps (54 system / line 20, usually 12.5 mm): The classic fashion snap with a gentle, smooth click. Great for shirts, blouses, light jackets and leather goods on woven fabrics. This is the most common everyday snap.
• Ring-spring snaps (61 system, often 15 mm): A stronger closure using a ring spring. Best for heavier items — outerwear, work wear, bags — where you want a firm, secure hold.
• Alfa fashion snaps (line 24, 15 mm): A versatile spring snap that works on almost any garment, including leather. A popular decorative choice.
• Prong / ring snaps (9.5 mm, "baby snaps"): The teeth grip the fabric directly, so they are ideal for baby clothes, bibs, rompers and light stretchy fabrics. Available as open, capped or pearl-topped.

The key takeaway: different snaps suit different fabrics and jobs. That is exactly why a starter set that includes several types is the smart way to begin — you can try them and learn what you like.

The best pick: a snap press machine with 4 popular dies

For most people starting out, the ideal purchase is our Snap Press Machine & Die Set with 4 Snap Button Dies. It covers the four most useful snap styles in one box, so you are ready for clothing, bags and baby wear from day one. Inside you get:

• The universal aluminium hand press machine (about 1.65 kg / 3.6 lbs, no hammering)
• 15 mm (line 24) 61-system utility socket snap dies — for strong closures
• 12.5 mm (line 20) 54-system S-spring snap dies — the everyday fashion snap
• 15 mm (line 24) alfa-system fashion snap dies — versatile and decorative
• 9.5 mm perforated prong snap dies — for baby wear and light fabrics
• A 2.5 mm hole punch die with brass base — to prepare clean holes

With this single kit you can handle the vast majority of snap projects without having to guess a size before you have even started.

Already own a press? Get the die-only set

If you already have a compatible hand press machine, you do not need to buy another one. The Snap Button Die Set for Hand Press Machine gives you the same four snap dies (61-system, 54-system S-spring, alfa, and 9.5 mm prong) plus the 2.5 mm hole punch and brass base — at a much lower price, since there is no duplicate machine.

All of our dies use a 6.3 mm (1/4 inch) top screw thread and an 11.9 mm (1/2 inch) bottom diameter. They fit our hand press machine; if you own a different brand, just check those two measurements before ordering.

Want snaps, rivets AND grommets too?

If you already know you will be working with more than just snaps — adding rivets to bags or eyelets to curtains, for example — consider stepping up to a mixed starter kit like the All-in-One Snap, Rivet, Eyelet & Grommet Hand Press Machine Set. It uses the same press but adds rivet and grommet dies, so one machine covers every common fastener.

How to set a snap: the basics

• Choose the matching die. A 12.5 mm S-spring snap needs the 12.5 mm S-spring die; a 15 mm ring snap needs the 15 mm 61-system die. Keep the size and system noted when you reorder snaps.
• Prepare the hole if needed. Post-type snaps need a small punched hole; prong snaps grip directly and usually do not.
• Test on a scrap. Adjust the depth screw so the snap seats firmly without crushing, then repeat on your garment.
• Buy snaps to match your dies. Once you know your favourite sizes, restocking snap fasteners is quick and inexpensive.

Frequently asked questions

Which snap type should a beginner start with?
For general clothing, the 12.5 mm S-spring (54 system) is the most common. For baby wear and light fabrics, use the 9.5 mm prong snap. A set that includes both means you do not have to choose blindly.

Are the snap buttons included in the set?
The set includes the press machine and the setting dies. The snap fasteners themselves are bought separately, so you can pick your preferred type, colour and quantity.

Do I need to punch a hole first?
For post/spring snaps, yes — a small hole helps. The included 2.5 mm punch and brass base handle this. Prong snaps grip the fabric directly and usually need no hole.

Can I use this machine for rivets and grommets later?
Yes. It is a universal press — just add the matching dies and you can set rivets, eyelets, grommets and jeans buttons on the same machine.

Ready to start snapping?

A snap press machine takes the frustration out of setting press studs and gives you clean, durable results from your first try. Start with the Snap Press Machine & Die Set with 4 Snap Button Dies for the full kit, or grab the Snap Button Die Set if you already have a press. Either way, you will be setting snaps like a pro in minutes.