Getting Started

SNAPS AUSTRALIA | HELP & GUIDES

Getting Started with Snaps & Presses

New to snaps? We'll help you choose the right fasteners, tools and dies for your project.

Choose your snaps → Choose your tool → Get started

Choose Your Snaps

Start by selecting the type of snap fastener that's right for your project.

Plastic Snaps

Lightweight, durable and ideal for nappies, bibs, clothing and fabric projects.

Shop Plastic Snaps →

Metal Snaps

Classic metal snaps for clothing, bags, leatherwork and upholstery.

Shop Metal Snaps →

Not sure which size?

Size 20 plastic snaps are our most popular and suit a wide range of projects. Size 16 snaps are smaller and often used for dolls' clothing and lighter fabrics.

Choose Your Press

Next, select the press or tool that best suits your needs.

Table Press

Heavy-duty and stable. Ideal for regular use, larger projects and commercial applications.

View Table Press →

Handheld Press

A versatile option for applying snaps without needing a benchtop machine.

View Handheld Press →

Stand-Up Press

An upright lever press that can also be mounted to a table or board.

View Stand-Up Press →

Basic Pliers

Basic pliers are an affordable option for applying plastic snaps occasionally. However, they require more hand pressure and aren't compatible with our professional dies. For greater versatility and regular use, we recommend a professional press.

View Basic Pliers →

Don't Forget Your Dies!

Each fastener type and size requires its matching die set. Our professional press machines use interchangeable dies, so you can use the same press for different fasteners.

View Dies & Accessories →

Do I Need an Adaptor Base for the Table Press?

An adaptor base is required for certain dies when used with the Table Press (it adjusts the bottom die hole diameter - making it compatible with all our dies). Check the die requirements to make sure you have everything you need.

Learn More About Adaptor Bases →

Make it easy with a Starter Kit

Skip the guesswork with a Starter Kit containing your press, matching dies and snaps.

Portable Press Starter Kit

A great choice for hobbyists and everyday projects.

View Starter Kit →

Table Press Starter Kit

Ideal for frequent use and larger projects.

View Starter Kit →

Explore More Starter Kits

We also offer starter kits for metal snaps and other fasteners.

View All Starter Kits →

See how easy it is

Watch our step-by-step videos to see how to use the presses and apply snaps.

How to Use the Table Press

How to Use the Stand-Up Press

How to Use the Handheld Press

Helpful Information & Buying Advice

A little more detail to help you choose the right snaps, presses and dies.

Plastic vs Metal Snaps – Which Should I Choose?

Both plastic and metal snaps are durable fasteners suitable for a wide range of sewing and craft projects. The best choice depends on your fabric, application and preferred finish.

Plastic snaps are lightweight, durable and available in a wide range of colours. Made from polyeacetal resin, they can withstand rigourous washing and will never rust. They're particularly popular for reusable nappies, bibs, baby clothing and everyday fabric projects.

Metal snaps offer a classic finish and are commonly used for clothing, bags, leatherwork and upholstery. Different styles are available to suit various materials and applications.

Shop Plastic Snaps → | Shop Metal Snaps →

What Size Plastic Snaps Do I Need?

Choosing the right snap size depends on your project, fabric thickness and the finished appearance you're looking for.

Size 20 plastic snaps are our most popular size. They're a versatile choice for reusable nappies, bibs, clothing, bags and many other fabric projects.

Size 16 plastic snaps are smaller and are often used for dolls' clothing, smaller garments and lightweight projects where a less prominent fastener is preferred.

For best results, choose a snap with a suitable post length for your fabric thickness and ensure you're using the matching dies.

Explore Plastic Snaps →

What's the Difference Between the Three Professional Presses?

Our professional snap presses are designed to apply a wide range of compatible fasteners (eg plastic snaps, metal snaps, rivets, grommets etc) using interchangeable dies. The main differences are their design, portability and method of operation.

Table Press (DK93): A heavy-duty benchtop press offering stability for regular use and larger projects.
Handheld Press: A lightweight, portable option that's convenient when working away from a dedicated workspace.
Stand-Up Press: An upright lever press that can be used on a work surface or mounted to a board or table (optional).

All three presses provide a professional finish for your garments and are suitable for hobbyists and professionals alike. Your choice will largely depend on how frequently you'll use the press and which operating style you prefer.

Explore Professional Presses →

What Dies Do I Need for My Snaps?

A die set is used with your professional press to correctly position and apply the fastener. Different fastener types and sizes require their matching dies.

For example, dies designed for Size 20 plastic snaps are not interchangeable with those required for metal snaps or other fastener sizes.

Our professional presses use interchangeable dies, allowing you to apply different fasteners without purchasing a separate press for each type.

Some dies also require an adaptor base when used with the DK93 Table Press, so always check the product compatibility information before ordering.

Browse Press Dies →

Can I Use One Press for Different Fasteners?

Yes! One of the main advantages of our professional press machines is their versatility.

By changing the die set, you can use the same press to apply different fasteners, including plastic snaps, metal snaps, rivets and other products.

This makes a professional press a practical choice if you work on different types of sewing, craft or leatherwork projects.

Always check the requirements for each die set, including whether an adaptor base is needed for your press.

Shop Presses & Dies →

Still Not Sure What You Need?

We're happy to help you choose the right snaps, press and dies for your project.