Snappi Canvas Snap Cleaner & Lubricant Makes Maintenance Easier
Published: Sunday, December 4, 2022 12:00 pm
By: Chris Cunningham
A version of this article appeared in the Buyer's Guide 2023 of Great Lakes Scuttlebutt magazine.
“You always knew you needed it, but never had it…until now.” This is how Chris Cunningham describes his invention, Snappi™, a patented maintenance tool for canvas metal snaps found on boats, recreational vehicles, and other outdoor equipment.
As a longtime boater, Chris was frustrated in his never-ending struggle with the snaps on his canvas covers. With constant exposure to the shoreline’s natural weather conditions, the snaps became almost impossible to work with resulting in torn canvas.
“There just had to be a better way to handle this persistent problem!” His idea was to develop a small device someone could use with one hand that would simply, and quickly, clean and lubricate the snaps.
The development process began almost nine years ago with Chris’ application to the U.S Patent Office for approval of his tool design that, in one motion, would clean and lubricate metal snaps. The design features three abrasive teeth that grab the snap, and pressing and turning the tool not only cleans the snap, but also applies a light lubricant to the snap head. In just seven months, the patent office reached out for clarifications of the tool’s functions and soon thereafter, he was awarded the first of four U.S. patents. In 2018, Snappi was introduced at the Newport Rhode Island International Boat Show where it received a nomination for Best New Marine Product. The Snappi package includes the Snappi, bottle of lubricant, lanyard and instructions.
“Boating is supposed to be fun, relaxing and a time to create great memories,” says Chris. “Struggling with grimy snaps and torn canvas shouldn‘t get in the way of making those memories.”
For more information and to see a demonstration, visit www.snap-a-lot.com.
tags: Accessories, Lubricant
