Zippers, buttons, snaps, and hooks and eyes are usually meant to be as inconspicuous as possible, but are sometimes used as decorative details. A stylish button, colorful separating zipper, or pearlized gripper snap can make a definite fashion statement.
Select the closure according to the style of garment and amount of strain that will be put on the opening. For example, a heavy-duty hook and eye closure (opposite) can better withstand the strain on a pants waistband than ordinary hooks and eyes. The back of the pattern envelope specifies the type and size of closures to purchase.
Because closures are under strain, it is important to reinforce the garment area where they are placed. Seam allowances or facings provide light reinforcement. Other closure areas should be reinforced with interfacing.
For sewing on buttons, snaps, and hooks and eyes, use an all-purpose thread, and sharps or crewel needles. For heavyweight fabrics or for closures that are under considerable strain, use heavy-duty, or topstitching and buttonhole twist thread.