How to Choose a Snap

Well, you started in the right place! YKK Snap Fasteners America can certainly help you with any of your snap needs.

Please review this page for an overview of terminology and the factors that must be considered in choosing the right snap for your application.

YKK Snap Fasteners America has seven basic lines of snaps available, the "SX", the "SK", the "SW", the "SG", the "SP", SNAPET^®, and Plastic SNAPET^®.

The "SX", "SK" and "SW" lines will have some overlap in usage.

The "SX" line uses a split-ring socket and is attached to the garment using YKK Snap Fasteners America's 2-Prong Fastener. This is the only line of medium and heavy duty snaps recommended for use with knit fabrics. "SX" also performs better on most fabrics containing high nylon content, polyester, and most stretch fabrics, such as lycra® or spandex®. These usages are recommended because the 2-Prong Fastener tends to slide between threads and displace them, rather than punching a hole (like a post fastener attached snap does). Using 2-Prong Fasteners yields another advantage to manufacturers. If a snap is attached improperly, it can usually be removed and replaced without damaging the fabric, thus avoiding seconds or discards.

The "SK" line also uses a split-ring socket, but is post-attached. For most garment applications, it can be used anywhere an "SX" snap can be used. (It is not recommended for knits or stretch fabrics.) It can also be used in ultra-thick applications, and in layered applications. Like the "SX", the "SK" can be used in reversible garments. The "SK" also shines with non-traditional applications, such as leather, automotive and marine applications, athletic gear, and other applications involving hard materials. Studs are available with a variety of brass or stainless steel screw fasteners. These include sheet metal screws, self-drilling self-tapping screws, and machine screws.

The "SW" uses a parallel spring socket, and a post-attached stud. It has two advantages compared to the "SX" and the "SK" line. It has a gentler action, and is more suitable for use with lightweight or technical fabrics (although, as it is post-attached, it is not recommended for knits). The spring is enclosed, which protects it from foreign contamination, and tends to maintain its action consistent snap action over the life of the garment, even under harsh conditions.

The "SX", "SK", and "SW" snaps are available in a wide variety of finishes. They are available in brass or steel, which may be plated, painted with a durable gloss enamel or 'paint filled'. They are also available with nylon plastic tops, which may be either gloss or matte, and which may be 'dyed to match'. Furthermore, they can all be enhanced with a custom logo or design.

The "SG" line is for use in belts, accessories, vinyl packaging and any other application requiring a low-profile, low-cost snap system.

The "SP" line of snaps are all-plastic. They are often used in medical and industrial applications. They also perform well on general apparel and personal accessories. "SP" snaps are available in a variety of sizes and and can be custom colored.

The SNAPET^® is used in a variety of settings. These include infantwear, children's apparel, westernwear, medical and other industrial garment applications. The SNAPET^® is available in brass, stainless steel, and a variety of cap sizes. The SNAPET^® is available in a variety of finishes, with metal, nylon, pearl, or rubber caps. They are available in a wide variety of colors. They can be enhanced with special designs and logos. The designer's main technical decision in this line is whether to use a post attached stud or a prong ring attached stud. Prong rings should always be used on knits or any stretchy fabrics. Prong rings can normally be removed from a garment with minimal damage, while a post attached stud punches a small hole in the substrate during application. Thus, although prong rings are slightly more expensive than posts, the reduction in seconds and discards can make them a good investment. Also, the same prong ring is used to attach the socket and the prong ring attached stud, reducing the number of items the manufacturer must stock.

The Plastic SNAPET^® is primarily used on disposable garments. It is available only in a 17 ligne square form, and cannot be enhanced with a logo.

If you have further questions, please get in touch with our sales staff, either by e-mail , by phone at (502) 839-6971, or by fax at (502) 839-6525.