What is a fastening? - KS1

Fastenings

A fastening is a device used to attach two edges of a piece of fabric together.

Most fastenings create a temporary join, so that the two pieces of material can be taken apart easily.

With fastenings on clothing, this means that the person wearing the item can put it on and take it off.

For example, you can undo buttons on a coat easily so that you can take the coat off.

Learn more about the different types of fastenings you might find.

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There are many different types of fastenings, such as:

Have a look at this slideshow to find out more about all the different types of fastenings. How many fastenings can you spot on your clothes?

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Zips
Zips are often used to join clothing, such as coats and trousers, or other items, such as pencil cases and purses. The zip provides a strong, temporary join by locking together metal or plastic teeth.
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Buttons
Buttons are used in lots of clothing items, such as shirts, trousers and jackets. They can also be used on other fabric items, like cushion covers. Buttons create a temporary join by feeding the button through a specially made hole.
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Press studs
Press studs, also known as poppers, are made up of two small discs that click together to make a temporary fastening. They can be made out of plastic or metal. They can be used instead of buttons and can be found on clothing, shoes and bags.
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Hook and loop
Hook and loop fastenings have one rough side of hooks and one soft side of loops. When the two sides are placed together, the hooks attach to the loops to create a temporary fastening. These are often used on shoes, coats and watch straps.
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Laces
Laces are long strings of material that can be tied together in different ways to make bows or knots. Laces create a temporary join and are used on shoes, jumpers, cardigans and even on some hats.

Can you spot all of the different types of fastenings? Have a go at this activity to find out.

Time to test your knowledge of the different types of fastenings with this quiz.