How to Use Your Portable Snap Press

Follow our video guides to apply plastic and metal snaps using your Stand-Up or Handheld Press.

Applying Plastic Snaps with the Stand-Up Press

Follow these simple step-by-step instructions to apply plastic snaps using your Stand-Up Press. We'll show you how to fit the dies, position your snaps and press them securely into place.

Using the Handheld Press? You'll find a video demonstration further down this page.

Select the appropriate dies for your plastic snaps. Fit the cap die into the lower hole of the press. Screw the top die into the upper hole, making sure both are securely positioned before use.

1. Position the cap die in the lower hole, ready for your snap.

2. Insert the correct top die into the upper hole of the press.

Each complete plastic snap consists of four pieces: two caps, one socket and one stud. Mark where you'd like to position your snaps, then use an awl to make a small hole through the fabric at each marked point (you may find the spike of the cap enough to poke through your fabric).

1. Gather your snap pieces: two caps, one socket and one stud.

2. Mark your snap positions and use an awl to make a small hole through the fabric.

With your dies fitted and fabric prepared, you're ready to apply the first half of your snap. Follow the steps below to position the snap correctly and secure it in place.

1. Push the prong of a snap cap through the hole in your fabric.

2. Place the socket over the exposed prong of the cap.

3. Position the cap in the lower die, ensuring the socket is aligned beneath the upper die.

4. Press the handle firmly to secure the snap, then release and check that the prong has flattened evenly.

Now repeat the process for the other half of your snap, this time using the stud instead of the socket. There's no need to change your dies!

1. Push another cap through the fabric and place the stud over its prong. Position the snap in the press and squeeze the handle firmly.

2. Check that the prong has flattened evenly. Congratulations, a completed snap!

Watch It in Action

Prefer to watch a demonstration? These videos show you how to apply plastic snaps using both our Stand-Up Press and Handheld Press.

Stand-Up Press Instructions

Applying Plastic Snaps

Learn how to apply plastic snap fasteners using your Stand-Up Press and No-Change Dies.

Applying Metal Snaps

Learn how to apply metal snaps using your Stand-Up Press.

Applying Plastic Snaps

Learn how to apply plastic snap fasteners using your Handheld Press and No-Change Dies.

Need Help Choosing a Press or Die?

Not sure which tool or die you need? Our Getting Started guide will help you choose the right products.