How to Choose the Right Magnetic Snap for Your Project? (Prong vs. Rivet Style)

When designing a handmade leather bag, a stylish wallet, or a hobby project, one of the most critical moments is choosing the "closure" hardware. Selecting the wrong magnet can make a great design difficult to use or ruin its aesthetic. So, should you use a Standard Prong (Classic) or a Rivet Style (Capped) magnet?

In this guide, we have compiled tips to help you choose the most suitable magnetic snap for your projects.

1. Standard Prong Snaps (Classic): Practical and Quick

These are usually the go-to choice for beginners or projects involving linings.

• How to Install? The two metal "legs" (prongs) on the back of the magnet are passed through the material, a washer is placed over them on the back, and the legs are bent outwards or inwards using pliers.
• Where to Use? Fabric bags, lined leather handbags, wallet interiors.
• Advantage: No special press machine or die set is needed. Can be installed with simple hand tools.
• Note: To hide the bent prongs, they must be installed under a lining layer; otherwise, the metal legs will be visible inside the bag.

2. Rivet Style Snaps (Professional Touch)

If you want a clean, factory-finish look for your project, the rivet series is for you. These magnets are divided into "Double Capped" and "Single Capped".

a) Double Capped Rivet Magnets

• Feature: Features a stylish "cap" (button head) on both the magnet side and the reverse side.
• Where to Use? Unlined leather bags, single-layer leather, or designs where both the inside and outside of the flap are visible.
• Appearance: When you look at the back of the product, you see a smooth button instead of prongs or assembly marks.

b) Single Capped Rivet Magnets

• Feature: Usually provides a capped look on the bag flap (exterior visible part), while the body part might be standard.
• Where to Use? Situations where the aesthetic appearance of the flap is essential, but the body part can be hidden by lining or where cost optimization is desired.

Important Note: To install rivet-style magnets, you need a Hand Press Machine and a specific Die Set suitable for that size (e.g., 18mm / approx. 0.71").

3. Invisible (Sew-in) Magnets

If you don't want any metal to be visible from the outside and want the bag to close like "magic," invisible magnets come into play. They are usually encased in PVC and are sewn under the lining to be hidden. Ideal for minimalist designs.

Summary: Which One Should I Choose?

Conclusion

A high-quality magnet is the most important investment for the security and stance of your bag. Our Plus Quality series magnets protect your designs for years with their high magnetic strength and rust-proof plating.

To choose the most suitable magnet for your project, you can visit our Magnetic Snaps Category, and check our Tools & Dies page for installation equipment.