Magnetic Purse Snaps: How to Choose and Install Them for Bags
Aktie
If you make bags, purses, clutches or totes, the magnetic snap is probably the closure you will reach for most. It holds a flap or pocket shut with a satisfying pull of magnetism, opens with one hand, and gives even a first bag a polished, shop-bought look. Better still, magnetic snaps are one of the easiest pieces of purse hardware to install — no buttonholes, no fiddly stitching.
This guide explains how magnetic purse snaps work, what size to choose, and how to fit them neatly.
What is a magnetic purse snap?
A magnetic snap (also called a bag magnet) comes as a set of four parts: a male half with a raised centre, a female half with a recessed centre, and two flat washers. One magnet holds a steel plate; bring the two halves close and they snap together, pull and they release. It stays hidden inside the bag or under a flap, so only the neat closure shows.
The most common style is the prong-back snap: two flat legs on each half push through slits in the fabric and fold flat behind a washer. That is the type we stock, and the type most bag patterns are written for.
What size magnetic snap do I need?
Magnetic snaps are measured by their outer diameter. Two sizes cover almost every project:
- 14 mm (0.55"): small bags, wallets, cell-phone purses, pouches and clutches — anywhere space is tight.
- 18 mm (0.71"): the everyday all-rounder for handbags, totes and backpacks where you want a firmer hold.
As a rule, larger snaps hold more strongly — so match the size to the weight of the flap or the pull the closure will take. We stock both in convenient 25-set packs:
How to install a magnetic snap (step by step)
- Reinforce first. Iron a small square of heavyweight fusible interfacing behind each snap position. This is the step beginners skip — and the reason snaps later tear out. Do not skip it.
- Mark the prong slits. Centre a washer on the spot and mark the two slots.
- Cut small slits with a seam ripper or sharp scissors. Keep them tight — too big and the snap wobbles.
- Push the prongs through from the right side of the fabric to the back.
- Add the washer and fold the prongs. Slide the washer over the prongs and bend them outward (flatter) or inward (tighter) against the washer.
- Repeat for the other half — male on the flap, female on the body (or as your pattern directs).
Tip: place something soft under the snap while you work so the cap does not get scratched on your table.
Where to position the male and female halves
The female part (recessed centre) usually goes on the body of the bag; the male part (raised centre) on the flap or tab — but check your pattern, as some reverse it. Whichever you choose, mark both halves from the same reference line so they meet exactly when the bag closes.
What can you use them on?
- Handbags, totes, backpacks and messenger bags
- Clutches, wallets, card holders and cosmetic pouches
- Flap closures on jackets, cases and scrapbooking projects
- Any DIY sewing project that needs a clean, quick closure
Frequently asked questions
Do magnetic snaps need sewing?
No. The prongs push through slits and fold flat behind a washer — no stitching required. Reinforce the fabric with interfacing so the snap stays secure over time.
Which size is best for a first bag?
18 mm is the versatile default for handbags and totes; use 14 mm for small pouches, wallets and tight spaces.
Why did my magnetic snap pull out of the fabric?
Almost always because the fabric was not reinforced. Always fuse a square of heavyweight interfacing (and ideally a washer) behind each snap.
Which half goes on the flap?
Usually the male (raised) half on the flap and the female (recessed) half on the body — but follow your pattern, and mark both from the same line so they align.
Add a professional closure to your next bag
Magnetic snaps are the fastest way to make a home-sewn bag look professionally finished. Pick 18 mm for handbags and totes or 14 mm for smaller projects, reinforce well, and enjoy a clean, satisfying click on every bag you make.