SnapSource metal snaps questions

[amberthesugarcat]

I want to try some snaps (I usually use Aplix) and I was going to order the metal snaps from SnapSource since I don't want to invest in the resin snaps right now. However, I am so confused since I have never even thought about doing snaps until this morning... I have the Darling Diaper pocket fitted pattern and I am trying to figure out what I need to order per diaper.

I would appreciate any help!

1. What size snap do I want? 16, 18 or 20?
2. I understand I need the snap setter and an adaptor if I use 18 or 20 size snaps. But what sets do I need? Do I order as many full sets as I need on the front, and then order extra open prong rings and studs for the insides? So if I am making a side snapping diaper I need 4 sets for the fronts, and then 10 sets of seperate studs and open prong rings to go on the inside?
3. I don't need extra sockets do I? That is what holds the snap in place right?
4. Does anyone like to use the open prong ring for the top rather than the closed prong ring? Is it nice to see the fabric on your snap?

And one final question about sewing the diaper. If I want to make hidden snaps, how does one do that on a pocket (like the Darling Diaper)? Is it more difficult?

Sorry about all of the questions. I love my aplix diapers, but I thought it would be nice to make a few snap diapers since they look so much more professional.

[Abbyloos Mommy]

well i bought size 16s, although 20 is recomened. I bought it to avoid having to buy the adapter as well LOL I have seen 14s and they are really tiny!

Just so you know, people say metal snaps aren't good in diapers cause of all the wet/urine contact, but in the diaper supplies sticky it says you can use snap source snaps.

I've also read somewhere that you can't use metal snaps on PUL, that the fabric is too delicate, but I tried them on a scrap of PUL and there was no tearing or anything... although it hasn't been in the washer or dryer yet.

All that said, I haven't tried them out on a diaper yet. So if you try before me, let me know how it turns out!

Let's see if I can answer you about the extras.. I bought mine from http://www.sewshoppe.com/snaps.shtml , it says on there you will need a completer set to make diapers to have the extra sockets/studs you need... unfortunatly I read that wrong and didnt' buy a completer set, oops. Looks like I will have to make a new order!

I think the open prong would be a matter of preference, but if I were using them on a print fabric it would be neat to see the fabric in the snap!

[boscopup]

Originally Posted by amberthesugarcat

And one final question about sewing the diaper. If I want to make hidden snaps, how does one do that on a pocket (like the Darling Diaper)? Is it more difficult?

I'll tackle this question... What Fuzzi Bunz does is they have an extra piece of microfleece where the snaps go, so the snaps are going through PUL and microfleece, but it's all inside the pocket (so you still have another layer of microfleece on top of the snaps - when you stick your hand in there, you can feel the snaps).

To do this, you just need to apply your sockets BEFORE sewing the diaper together. You save your studs for last when the diaper is sewn up.

You'd do the same thing with aplix for hidden aplix - loop gets sewn in before sewing the diaper, then hook gets sewn in afterwards.

[mehndi mama]

I would use size 18 or 20. I would go with prong caps for the outside, and ring for the inside. I would NOT hide the snaps - I don't even want to go into how big of a nightmare it is to remove those pointy things to replace snaps when they're hidden. UGH.
I would also put the studs on the wings, and the sockets on the front. It looks better that way - doesn't make the baby's belly look all nipply

[boscopup]

Originally Posted by mehndi mama

I would NOT hide the snaps - I don't even want to go into how big of a nightmare it is to remove those pointy things to replace snaps when they're hidden. UGH.

Since she's making pockets, isn't it not a big deal to access the "hidden" snaps? You just turn the pocket inside out, and there's your snap part! Also, with non-hidden snaps on a pocket, you could be big time eating into how high the insert can go. For a boy, that could be disastrous!

[mehndi mama]

Ah, true. I missed the pocket diaper part! Sorry about that!

[amberthesugarcat]

I never thought about that, with a boy the snaps could be a problem! I need the insert all the way to the top. Thanks so much for the advice. It sounds so much more complicated then Aplix. Now I am reconsidering if it is worth it. I have been happy with Aplix. Maybe I will start using snaps when I have to make larges for him...

[boscopup]

I find snaps easier to do than aplix.

[art4babies]

Does anyone here know of a good online source for directions to apply metal snaps with the snap press?

Thanks!