When you’re making a boat cover, canopy, tonneau, soft top or another removable fabric cover, choosing the right fastener matters.

Two commonly used options are turnbuttons and press studs.

Both allow fabric to be secured and removed when required, but they work in different ways and offer different levels of security.

So, which should you choose?

Here we look at how turnbuttons and press studs work, where they’re commonly used and what to consider before fitting them.

What is a turnbutton?

A turnbutton – sometimes called a turnbuckle – is a simple mechanical fastener frequently used for covers and outdoor applications.

An eyelet is fitted into the fabric and positioned over the turnbutton. Once the eyelet is in place, the button is rotated through 90 degrees to lock the fabric securely.

To remove the cover, simply rotate the button back and lift the eyelet away.

It's a straightforward system, but one that can provide a strong and secure fastening.

What parts do I need for a turnbutton?

The fabric side of the fastening normally uses an eyelet and washer.

The eyelet creates a reinforced opening in the material, while the turnbutton forms the locking part of the fastening.

Different bases are available depending on where the button needs to be fitted. For example, some are designed for attachment to a solid surface, while fabric-to-fabric versions allow one section of material to be secured to another.

This makes turnbuttons suitable for a wide range of cover-making projects.

Where are turnbuttons commonly used?

Turnbuttons are particularly popular where a cover needs to be held securely but also removed regularly.

Typical applications include boat covers, narrowboat cratch covers, classic-car soft tops, shade sails and covers for gazebos or pergolas.

Their relatively large size also makes them easy to operate, even when working with substantial outdoor fabrics.

Why choose a turnbutton?

One of the main advantages of a turnbutton is security.

Because the eyelet is mechanically locked into position by turning the button, it is less likely to release simply because tension is placed on the fabric.

That can make turnbuttons a good choice for covers exposed to wind or other forces.

They're also straightforward to open and close when you need to remove the cover.

What is a press stud?

A press stud – also sometimes referred to as a popper or popover – uses two components that snap together when pressure is applied.

A typical press-stud system includes a cap and socket on one side and a stud with either a post or screw fixing on the other, depending on where it is being installed.

Push the two sides together and they lock into place. Pull them apart and the fastening releases.

It is a compact and convenient system that works well in many cover, canopy and marine applications.

Aren't press studs mainly used for clothing?

Press studs are certainly used for clothing, but their applications go much further.

Heavier-duty versions are commonly found on boat covers, canopies and other removable outdoor fabric products.

The important thing is to choose a press stud designed for the application rather than assuming all press studs are interchangeable.

Turnbuttons or press studs: what's the difference?

The biggest difference is the way the fastening locks.

A press stud relies on the two halves snapping together. A turnbutton places an eyelet over the fastening before the button is physically turned to lock it in position.

Because of this, turnbuttons can be particularly useful where the fabric is under greater tension or where a more secure mechanical fastening is wanted.

Press studs, meanwhile, are compact, quick to operate and can be ideal where the loads involved are lower.

There doesn't always have to be a single fastening type across an entire project either. Some covers can use different fasteners in different positions depending on the amount of tension each area experiences.

Can I fit them to any fabric?

Turnbuttons and press studs can be fitted to many different types and thicknesses of fabric.

However, the strength of the fastening is only useful if the material around it is strong enough to take the load.

With thinner fabrics, it is often sensible to reinforce the fastening point before installing the hardware. This can be done by adding another layer or a patch of stronger material.

Reinforcement helps spread the load over a larger area and reduces the risk of the fastener pulling through the fabric.

For outdoor covers in particular, this is an important part of achieving a durable result.

How far apart should fasteners be?

There isn't one spacing that works for every project.

Around 500mm can be a useful starting point in some cover applications, but the correct spacing depends on the fabric, shape of the cover, amount of tension and how exposed it will be to wind.

A cover in a sheltered position may have very different requirements from one permanently exposed on a boat.

Rather than following a fixed spacing rule, consider how the load will be distributed across the complete cover.

Do I need special tools to fit press studs?

Press studs need to be installed correctly if they are going to work reliably.

Kits are available that contain the components and basic tools needed to create the hole and close the press stud.

Whichever fastening you use, careful positioning is important. Measure and mark each fastening point before making any holes in the finished fabric.

It is much easier to check the position twice than correct a misplaced fastener afterwards.

Which should I choose: turnbuttons or press studs?

For a simple, compact fastening where the fabric isn't under excessive tension, a press stud may be all you need.

Where you need a more substantial mechanical fastening – particularly on outdoor, marine or vehicle covers – a turnbutton may be the better choice.

The material, tension, exposure and way the cover will be used should all influence the decision.

Point North Profabrics stocks turnbuttons, press studs and the associated fittings and tools for a wide range of outdoor and marine projects.

If you're unsure which fastening system is best for your project, our team can help you choose the most suitable components for the fabric, application and environment.