I was recently asked by someone on Facebook if I could make a twist lock video tutorial. Once I had spent all that time putting it together it only made sense it make it available here.
Some people may install their twist locks in a different way. This is just the method I use. I’ve included some notes below to help explain the process. (Note: A twist lock and flip lock are installed in the same way – I’ve used a flip lock in this demonstration)
Tools:
- Small sharp scissors
- Frey Check (optional)
- Fabric Marker
- Hole Punch
- Small Screwdriver
Notes Installing Male Part:
*Unless I’m using heavyweight materials (like marine vinyl) I always reinforce the back of the fabric where I will install the twist lock. A small scrap piece of interfacing is fine. I use a heavier weight interfacing (iron on fleece) where installing the male part. (For more information about interfacing check out my tutorial) This is optional but recommended.
*When the back plate (or washer) has multiple slits check which ones the prongs (on the back of the male part) fit through. Use the back plate as a stencil to mark where to make the slits in the fabric.
*Applying Frey Check is optional. It helps the fabric from fraying after you’ve cut into it. (Woven iron on Interfacing also helps the fabric from fraying).
*The prongs on the back (of the male part) can be finger bent or you can use the back of your scissors to help.
*I always add either fusible fleece or woven iron on interfacing to cover the back of the assembled male part. This will help guard against the metal rubbing against your lining fabric. And for extra strength as this part of the twist lock gets a lot of use. ⚠️ CAUTION: Don’t Iron directly over the top of the hardware! Only iron around the edge to keep the interfacing in place.
Notes Installing Female Part:
*As with the male part I also reinforce the area where I’m installing the female part. I use a lighter iron on interfacing (like Pellon SF101) because I’ll be cutting into it. This is optional and depends on the thickness of the fabric.
*Use the back of the female part as a guide for marking your fabric (including screw holes). Using a sharp pair of small scissors cut out the hole you just drew. I usually need to trim this hole down so no fabric can be seen once fully assembled. Do this carefully, trimming small sections at a time and checking it against the back part. IMPORTANT: Be careful not to accidentally cut into the two small screw holes. They are always right next to the hole you need to cut. Also make sure you don’t “over” trim the hole and cut too much away.
*The back has a “right” side and a “wrong” side. The wrong side is usually plain compared to the right side.
*Make sure you have the front and back pieces of the female part lined up correctly (with the fabric in between). The screw holes should all match up.
