Magnet Closures for Small Leather Goods

[tamiclay]

I produce a small wallet size pouch that I have had a lot of problems figuring out how to make it close without impeding on the design of the pouch. The opening is a little over 3 inches. Its used to carry a cell phone and maybe some credit cards. A magnet would be perfect but for anything to get in the bag it would have to pass the magnet. Perhaps this is a stupid question but is there are magnet that is available that won't pose a problem for the cell phones and demagnatize credit cards - or even some sort of technology other than a zipper or snap that is available on the market that will fit well on a small leather good?

 

[taylog1]

How about a magnet using a Halbach array on the body of the wallet pointing out

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Halbach_array

and a piece of soft iron on the flap to clip onto the magnet ? - (see your local fridge magnet manufacturers for a source)

then you might be able to get your object into the wallet without dragging it over the magnet.

But watch out for the eelskin

http://www.straightdope.com/columns/read/906/do-eelskin-wallets-demagnetize-bank-teller-cards

 

[astrokreng]

I can suggest a few options for magnet closures on small leather goods that may work for your pouch without causing any interference with the contents inside.

1. Use a magnet with a lower strength: Strong magnets can demagnetize credit cards and interfere with cell phone signals. However, there are weaker magnets available on the market that can still provide a secure closure without causing any harm. Look for magnets with a lower gauss rating, typically less than 1,000 gauss, to avoid any potential damage.

2. Utilize a magnet shield: You can also use a magnet shield or a magnetic field shield to prevent the magnet from affecting the contents inside the pouch. These shields are made of materials that can block or redirect magnetic fields, allowing you to use a stronger magnet for closure without any negative impact.

3. Consider alternative closure options: If you are still concerned about using a magnet, there are other closure options available on the market that may suit your design needs. For instance, you can use a push-button or a hook-and-loop closure, which are commonly used in small leather goods and do not require any magnetic components.

I hope these suggestions help you find a suitable solution for your pouch closure. It is always important to consider the potential effects of magnets on sensitive items like credit cards and cell phones, but with the right approach, you can still achieve a functional and aesthetically pleasing design.