How to sew on press studs (snaps)

Sew-on press studs are a quick, almost invisible closure. The ball half goes on the overlapping side, the socket on the underlap.

Pinny's tip
Rub chalk on the ball, press the edges together and the chalk marks where the socket goes.

What you'll need

• Sew-on press studs: size to suit the fabric weight.
• Hand-sewing needle and thread: matching colour.

Step by step

1. Mark where the ball half goes on the inside of the overlap.
2. Sew it on with three or four stitches through each hole, keeping stitches hidden from the right side.
3. Chalk the ball, close the opening and press to mark the socket position.
4. Sew the socket on the same way.
5. Fasten off on the inside and test.

Common mistakes

• Stitches showing on the outside. Only catch the top layer of fabric on the overlap.
• Misaligned halves. Use the chalk trick.
• Studs too big for fine fabric. Pick a small size.

Watch it done

• How to Sew on Snaps {Press Studs}: Easy Tutorial for Beginners by Treasurie on YouTube. Opens on YouTube; the video belongs to its creator.
• How to Attach Sew-On Snaps by OnlineFabricStore on YouTube. Opens on YouTube; the video belongs to its creator.
• HOW TO SEW A SNAP CLOSURE - How to hand sew a snap on a garment so it won’t fall off!! by Meghan Grace DIY on YouTube. Opens on YouTube; the video belongs to its creator.

Sources

All checked November 1, 2026. We read these; we did not test the products ourselves.

1. Tilly and the Buttons: 5 Tips for Stress-Free Snaps
2. YouTube: How to Sew on Snaps {Press Studs}: Easy Tutorial for Beginners (Treasurie)
3. YouTube: How to Attach Sew-On Snaps (OnlineFabricStore)
4. YouTube: HOW TO SEW A SNAP CLOSURE - How to hand sew a snap on a garment so it won't fall off!! (Meghan Grace DIY)