There are different types of bag clasps for your sewing projects:
- Magnetic snap / Magnetic clasp
- Turn lock clasp
- School bag clasp / TUCK lock
- Swivel clasp
- LOXX fastener
- Other bag clasps
Not to mention snap fasteners, zippers, and carabiners!
1. Choosing the right bag clasp: balancing style and practicality
Let us guide you in choosing the unique accessory that will make all the difference!
The importance of choosing the right clasp
It is important to choose a clasp that is suitable for the use of the bag or pouch. A bag clasp has two essential roles: it ensures the security of your belongings while contributing to the overall aesthetics of your creation. A wrong choice can not only compromise the practicality of the bag but also its design.
2. A very handy tool
Thanks to this ingenious tool, no more awkward or too long cutter strokes! It ensures clean and precise cuts in your leather, imitation leather, fabric... for attaching your claw clasps.
Watch the video ⬇️🎥
3. Different types of clasps and their installation methods
The magnetic snap / magnetic TOP clasp
Easy to install and use, the magnetic TOP clasp is highly appreciated for handbags and pouches. It offers an elegant and discreet closure because the head of the clasp is usually hidden in the lining (simple magnetic TOP). There are several variations of magnetic clasps: POLO, rivet-on, with different heads (round, triangular, rectangular)... Its only drawback: it can lack security if the bag is often handled or heavily loaded.
 ©La Popeline FactoryPOLO magnetic clasp
|
 POLO magnetic clasp
|
 ©Deco Cuir
Rectangular magnetic clasp
|
 ©Bjornarok_leather
Rivet-on magnetic clasp
|
How to install a "simple" magnetic TOP?
- Mark the location: identify and mark with a silver pencil the location of the clasp on the flap and body of the bag.
- Make incisions to insert the metal prongs using a craft knife or the TB272 tool.
- Attach the front part: insert the part of the clasp that attaches to the flap, place the metal support on the wrong side (flesh side) and fold the metal tabs outwards (to avoid excess thickness) using a ruler.
- Repeat the operation for the second part of the magnetic top.
- Test the closure: check that the clasp opens and closes correctly before using the bag or sewing a lining.
 |
 |
 |
 |
How to install a "POLO" magnetic TOP ⌀17 mm?
- Mark the location: identify and mark with a silver pencil the location of the clasp on the flap and body of the bag.
- Drill a ⌀10 mm hole using a punch. Then, screw the head of the magnetic top onto the flap. The head should be placed on a thickness of 3/4 mm.
- Attach the second part: make incisions to insert the metal prongs using a craft knife or the TB272 tool. Insert the part of the clasp that attaches to the bag body, place the metal support on the wrong side (flesh side) and fold the metal tabs outwards (to avoid excess thickness) using a ruler.
- Test the closure: check that the clasp opens and closes correctly before using the bag.
Watch the video ⬇️🎥
How to install a rivet-on magnetic TOP?
- Mark the location: identify and mark with a silver pencil the location of the clasp on the flap and body of the bag.
- Drill 2 holes of ⌀3 mm using a punch.
- Using the setting tools, handle, and Ertalon plate: attach the 2 parts of the rivet clasp to a thickness between 2.5 and 5 mm.
- Test the closure: check that the clasp opens and closes correctly before using the bag or sewing a lining.
 |
 |
 |
 > End of first part installation < |
 |
 |
Other magnetic clasps
Watch the video to see the installation of the square magnetic clasp ⬇️🎥
The turn lock clasp
This clasp is often used; it combines aesthetics and security. It adds a chic and sophisticated touch and is ideal for city bags or rigid handbags.
 ©Kévin RFT
|
 ©Deco Cuir
|
How to install a turn lock clasp?
- Mark the location: identify and mark with a silver pencil the location of the clasp on the flap using the back plate (the one that will be screwed to the back of the clasp).
- Cut out the rectangle using a craft knife and punch the holes with a punch tool. Then, insert and screw the 2 parts of the clasp head. The head should be placed on a thickness of about 3 mm.
- Attach the second part: make incisions to insert the metal prongs using a craft knife or the TB272 tool. Insert the part of the clasp that attaches to the bag body, place the metal support on the wrong side (flesh side) and fold the metal tabs inwards using a ruler.
- Test the closure: check that the clasp opens and closes correctly before using the bag.
Watch the video ⬇️🎥
Other shapes of turn lock clasps
We love this unusual small square turn lock clasp (ref. AA426).
Watch the video ⬇️🎥
The school bag clasp
This robust clasp is often used on professional bags, school bags, and small pouches. It guarantees a secure closure and a classic design, perfect for a timeless style.
 ©C Serra
|
 ©L'atelier de Laurence
|
 ©Steam Lilith Couture
|
 ©Ollivo Julie
|
How to install a school bag clasp?
- Mark the locations: trace the location of the clasp on the flap and on the base of the bag. Pay attention to the thickness of the flap when attaching the clasp head (otherwise, add reinforcement or a tab).
- Drill 2 holes of ⌀3 mm using a punch.
- Attach the metal plate: insert the back plate of the clasp inside the bag and secure it by folding the metal tabs inwards.
- Attach the second part: make incisions to insert the metal tabs using a craft knife or the TB272 tool. Insert the part of the clasp that attaches to the bag body, place the metal support on the wrong side (flesh side) and fold the metal tabs inwards using a ruler.
- Test the closure: check that the clasp works well and keeps the bag securely closed.
Watch the videos ⬇️🎥
For this second clasp, the head is attached with two screws. Use a round awl to pre-drill the leather before screwing (the screw will anchor into the material; we do not recommend drilling the leather before screwing).
The swivel clasp
This type of clasp deserves to be known; it can bring security and authenticity to your bag.
 ©Arnaud T
|
 ©Les lumières de Noëlle
|
How to install a swivel clasp for a bag?
- Mark the locations: trace the location of the clasp on the flap and on the base of the bag (position of the 4 holes).
- Drill 4 holes of ⌀4 mm using a punch.
- Using the setting tools, handle, and Ertalon plate: attach the 4 simple or double-capped T3 rivets.
- Test the closure: check that the clasp works well and keeps the bag securely closed.
Watch the video ⬇️🎥
The LOXX fastener
This type of fastener, once engaged, has a very high tear-out resistance. It therefore offers great security for your creations. The LOXX fastener is generally used to attach guitar straps to the instrument, but it can also add originality to your bags.
 ©Fabrice Richez
|
 ©James Berry
|
How to install a LOXX self-locking fastener?
- Mark the locations: trace the location of the clasp on the flap and on the base of the bag.
- Drill 2 holes of ⌀10 mm using a punch.
- Screw in the first part of the clasp. Use the LOXX key for a good tightening.
- Attach and screw the second part of the clasp.
- Test the closure: check that the clasp works well and securely keeps the bag closed.
Watch the video ⬇️🎥
Other bag clasps
We offer more than 80 types of bag clasps on our website www.decocuir.com
Another favorite is this lovely bag clasp (ref. AA425): the two parts of the clasp interlock. To open, press the bottom part and pull the top part.
Watch the video ⬇️🎥
Other styles of bag closures
The tubular clasp - CLIC CLAC clasp
Perfect for giving your creations a vintage look! Very popular for making pouches or vanity cases.
The snap button
The indispensable snap button! Very popular for wallets and coin purses, it also provides a quick, discreet, and secure closure for your handbags.
 ©Clara F Sacs
|
 ©CLM Création
|
 ©Landerneau by MB
|
 ©Karine
|
The zipper / zip fastener
This is one of the most secure systems. The closure prevents items from falling out of the bag and protects its contents from prying eyes. It is perfect for travel bags, backpacks, and everyday bags.
 ©Vanessa De Almeida
|
 ©Chat - Chapeau
|
The carabiner
Very practical, it allows quick opening while ensuring a good hold. It is often used for shoulder bags or backpacks.
 ©Deco Cuir
|
 ©Matière VRSL
|
The buckle / belt buckle
Bringing a vintage and elegant look, this closure is very popular for leather bags and satchels. However, it requires a little more manipulation to open and close.
 ©Bjornarok_leather
|
 ©Les cousettes de Stella
|
4. How to choose the ideal clasp for your sewing project?
Depending on the use of the bag
- For an everyday bag: opt for a zipper or magnetic snap for a good balance between security and practicality.
- For a clutch or evening bag: a turn-lock or magnetic clasp adds a refined touch.
-
For a travel bag or backpack: a zipper remains the safest choice.
⚠️ Also pay attention to the choice of material for your clasp: brass, zamac, steel, copper, aluminum… it is important if you want it to withstand time and use! Most of our clasps are made of ZAMAC (a non-ferrous alloy).
Depending on the design / style
The clasp greatly contributes to the aesthetic of the bag. A discreet magnetic snap will suit a minimalist design, while a turn-lock clasp or a metal buckle will give a more sophisticated look.
In conclusion
The choice of a bag clasp should not be taken lightly. Take the time to choose it well! Depending on the use and desired style, you can opt for various closures that will enhance your creation. Give character to your future sewing projects!
The perfect finishing touch for your leather goods creations.
