We love the look of over-sized buttons on our jackets and vests but making an over-sized buttonhole to fit the button can be a challenge and not always the most attractive when unbuttoned. And sometimes you just want a hidden closures. We found a solution for both problems.

We have found that using extra large snaps (30mm) is the perfect closure solution. It allows the buttons to be the focal point on your garment or if you prefer, provides a perfect hidden closure. Take a look at one of our newest patterns, The Classic Cape (IJ948) or two of our favorite patterns, Classic Vest (IJ868) and The Chinois Coat (IJ885) – all three use large snap closures paired with over-sized buttons or as a hidden closure.

The Casual Cape - IJ948

Classic Vest - IJ868

The Chinois Coat - IJ885

What we especially love about using snaps is that even when the jacket or vest is open, the snaps, even though utilitarian, become a great garment accent. Large snaps are easy to sew on but just remember to sew the snaps on first and then add the buttons either above or below the snap. From experience, we’ve found that it is almost impossible to sew a button on your garment in the same exact spot if a snap is sewn directly underneath!

On a “idea gathering” visit to an exclusive boutique, our in-house designer Mary Meyer saw a beautiful black wool designer jacket that used these same large snaps in black instead of using traditional buttons down the front of the jacket and on the jacket sleeves AND in addition, they were used as the closures.

Snaps could also be used instead of magnetic closures on any purse or bag. Our Mixed Metal Zips (IJ906) bracelets even use the large snaps as part of a bracelet or use the snaps for eyes or noses on our Zipper Critters (IJ850) or PJ Pet Pillows (IJ861).

The snaps are available in brass, silver, and black.  Click here to browse all of our sewing notions.