How to Use KAM Snaps, Plastic Snaps The Easy Way

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Learning how to use KAM snaps is an easy way to add secure fasteners to your sewing projects, like clutches, nappy covers, and clothing. KAM snaps are plastic press studs that attach using special pliers and just a bit of hand strength. They are so popular because they are durable, easy to attach, and available in many colors and sizes. Once installed, KAM snaps create a strong closure that opens and closes easily. This step-by-step KAM snaps tutorial shows you exactly how to attach plastic snaps with pliers, including tips for choosing the right size and achieving perfect results every time.

What are KAM Snaps?

KAM snaps are a popular brand of plastic snaps used on baby clothing, bags, purses, and nappies. They are perfect for anywhere you need a fast and easy type of fastener. They are readily available on eBay and Amazon and are sold in various sizes and colors. Kits are available that include the tools you need at a very reasonable price.

How to Use Kam Snaps Instructions

KAM Snaps are a really great invention, and they come with all the necessary tools that make them easy to use. Snip, push and snap, then…away you go. Here is a quick overview of how to install the KAM snaps.

How to Use Kam Snaps (Quick Guide)

KAM snaps are plastic press studs installed using special pliers. They are commonly used on baby clothes, bags, bibs, and sewing projects to create a strong, washable, and easy-to-use closure.

Decide where the snap will go and mark the spot.
Use an awl to create a small hole in the fabric.
Push the prong of the cap through the hole.
Place the matching piece onto the prong.
Use KAM snap pliers to squeeze and secure.
Attach the matching snap pieces to complete the closure.

Supplies for Using Kam Snaps

The tools needed come in a kit with the snaps or separately. There is a huge variety of plastic snap sizes and colors, so you can match your fabric color and thickness.

You will need:

KAM Snap pliers
An awl to push holes in the fabric
Plastic snaps
Your sewing project

Choosing the Best Kam Snap Size to Install

Kam snaps come in different prong lengths and cap sizes. Longer prong lengths help with thicker fabric, so look out for the right size and check it will work with your chosen fabric.

The KAM Snap company itself does not give specific recommendations for different fabric types and thicknesses, as it is often hard to predict how multiple layers of a particular fabric will behave.

TIP: If you are not sure which size you need, then consider a sampler pack with different sizes and lengths of snaps.

The size 20 is the most common size used, particularly since it is available in 3 prong lengths. This is the size I most commonly use on my bib sewing patterns and dresses. I mainly use the standard prong length, but some bibs with thicker toweling on the back were better with the long prong length.

How to Use Kam Snaps Step by Step

Open your snap packet and choose 4 pieces as shown below. You should have 2 caps which are identical, a stud and a socket. One cap will attach to the stud and the other cap will attach to the socket. Sounds simple, doesn’t it? Well, it is!

1. Sew Your Item

Cut out your sewing project and sew it to the point where a snap is needed.

2. Make a Hole and Insert the Kam Snap

Get hold of the awl and push it through the fabric at just the right spot. The measuring up for the holes needs to be accurate so the snaps match. Take a bit of time on that process marking the snap points carefully. On my downloadable sewing patterns, I usually give you a mark where to insert the awl.

Push the prong of one of the caps through the hole. It will depend on your pattern, but generally, the flat cap will be on the outside of the garment or clutch.

How to Use KAM SNAPS -Push Through the Cap

3. Use Pliers to Push Together

Use the KAM Snap pliers to secure the snaps in place. Start by putting the cap with the prong facing up at the bottom of the pliers. You will notice your pliers have a black disk on the bottom. The cap should sit nicely in the middle of the head.

Place the stud over the prong, facing up. Squeeze the handle of the pliers tightly until the prong is squashed down.

Use the pliers to press the kam snap pieces together

Repeat the process of attaching the socket to the other cap.

Alternatives to Kam Snaps

The main alternative to KAM snaps is the metal ring or solid metal types of snaps. These may be enameled with a bright color or in a metal finish such as gold, silver, or brass. The method used to set these other types of snaps is very similar, but the tools differ. Learn all about setting snaps.

KAM Snaps FAQs

Are KAM snaps strong enough for baby clothes?

Yes — they are designed specifically for baby clothing and washable garments.

Do I need special tools to use KAM snaps?

Yes, you need KAM snap pliers or a compatible press tool.

Can KAM snaps go through thick fabric?

Yes, but you must use longer prong snaps for thicker materials.

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How to Use Kam Snaps – In Conclusion

Learning how to use KAM snaps is a simple skill that can greatly improve the look and function of your sewing projects. These plastic snaps are easy to install using snap pliers and provide a secure, professional finish for clothing, bibs, bags, and accessories. Practice always makes perfect, so try your new snaps out on some scrap before you go to the finished item. Use this KAM Snaps tutorial to save time on these amazing and simple Treasurie sewing patterns: