Manufacturer · Fashion & Home Accessories
Chico snap buttons are the most versatile model in our catalogue – easy to fasten and securely held, suitable for children's clothing, blouses, workwear and home textiles. Besides them there are standard, domed and flat models, which differ in the shape of the cap. By mechanism, snap buttons are divided into ring spring snaps, post snaps and open prong snaps. The right combination of shape and mechanism depends on the fabric and the load.
Two ways to classify snap buttons
When looking for a snap button, you will come across two parallel classifications. The first is by mechanism – how the parts are attached to the fabric and how the fastening works. The second is by shape and look of the cap – what the customer sees. A good choice combines both: a mechanism suited to the fabric and a cap that fits the design.
Types by mechanism
Ring spring snaps
These have a spring in the socket shaped like a ring or the letter S. When the stud enters, the spring opens and grips it. The fastening is soft and positive, and the holding force can be adjusted through the spring design. This is the most widely used mechanism for shirts, jackets, dresses and accessories.
Post snaps
The cap and the base have a tubular post that passes through a pre-made hole and is rolled over onto the socket or stud. They are very strong and suited to thick materials – denim, canvas, leather, padded products. They require an exact post length and an exact die.
Open prong snaps
Instead of a post they have a ring with several prongs that pierce the fabric without a hole being made. The prongs push the yarns of the knit aside rather than cutting them, which is why this type is the standard for baby bodysuits, pyjamas and knitwear. The cap can be closed (smooth, with a finish) or an open ring through which the fabric shows.
Plastic snaps
Made of rigid plastic and attached with a spike. They are light, come in many colours and do not rust. They are used on bibs, cloth nappies and light products.
Sew-on snaps
Small flat snaps sewn on with needle and thread. They need no press and are used for concealed closures. We cover them in detail in the sew-on snap fasteners category.
Chico snap buttons and other cap shapes
Chico
The most popular model – versatile, easy to fasten and securely held. It suits a wide range of products: children's clothing, blouses, workwear, home textiles. When you are not sure where to start, the chico model is a sensible starting point for a sample.
Standard
A classic model for mass garment production with high strength and reliably repeatable fastening. It is used on jackets, trousers and sportswear, where the snap is opened and closed many times.
Domed
With a slightly convex cap that gives a cleaner, more elegant look. It is preferred for womenswear, shirts, waistcoats and accessories. The domed shape reflects light and emphasises the finish – gloss gold, nickel or enamel.
Flat
With a minimalist profile, for when the snap needs to be discreet – sportswear, uniforms and functional products. A flat cap is also convenient for engraving a logo.
Comparison table
| Type | How it is attached | Suitable fabrics | Typical products |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ring spring | post, riveting | light to medium | shirts, dresses, jackets |
| Post snap | hole and rolling over | thick | denim, workwear, bags |
| Open prong | prongs through the fabric | knits | bodysuits, pyjamas, T-shirts |
| Plastic | spike and rolling over | light | bibs, nappies, accessories |
| Sew-on | needle and thread | any | concealed closures, lingerie |
Finishes and effects
Each of the types can have a metal finish – nickel, black oxide, antique brass, gold, bronze – or be lacquered in a colour, matt or gloss. Gloss looks good on domed models, while flat models suit matt and satin surfaces against which a logo stands out. For products in contact with the skin, choose a nickel-free finish.
How to choose a type of snap button
- Identify the fabric: knit, woven fabric of normal thickness or thick, multi-layer material.
- Choose the mechanism to suit the fabric: prongs for knits, a spring for medium wovens, a post for thick materials.
- Choose the cap shape to suit the design: chico, standard, domed or flat.
- Determine the size and finish.
- Ask for a sample and test it with the real fabric and tool.
Holding force and comfort
The type of snap determines not only how it looks but also how it feels. With baby bodysuits, parents open the snaps many times a day, often with one hand – here a soft but secure force is needed. On jackets and workwear the snap must not come undone accidentally with movement or in the wind, so a stronger spring is chosen. On bags and cases the force must hold the contents without requiring effort every time it is opened. When you request a sample, describe the product and the user – this helps select the right spring, not just the shape of the cap.
Common mistakes
- a post snap on thin jersey – the hole widens and the snap falls out;
- a prong snap on very dense denim – the prongs do not penetrate well;
- choosing a cap from a photo alone without checking the holding force;
- mixing models from different manufacturers in one garment.
If the product also has openings for cords, match the snaps with eyelets in the same finish. You will find all models in the snap buttons category.
Samples from Polkom
Polkom manufactures snap buttons in chico, standard, domed and flat models, in sizes from 6 to 40 mm and with a custom logo. Send us a description of the product and fabric via our contact page – we will suggest a suitable model and a sample.
