I do not have my leaders permanently attached to the bars. I use heavy duty velcro to attach, thus allowing me to snap on quilt top to leaders on a table I have nearby. that way can use strength in arms rather than hands to attach.

This is what I do... bend up the snappe piece almost 90 degrees when putting them on. I also use shorter lengths and a few extra really small pieces.
My arthritis would not accomodate the side grippers. I went to the hardware store and bought clamps I could use. Now, I just use heavy handle type material that is always in the clamps and then adjust the length of that handle tape. You can sorta see what I mean on the HandiQuilter site video.

Over time they will become easier to clamp on. I love mine.

I also cut my longer pieces in half, made them much easier to handle!

What are red snappers?

Here's a link to a Youtube video by the inventor:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VdESb8_p5ec

I could not snap them either. Carpal tunnel, both hands. Putting the required pressure to get them to snap on was too much for me to do. I sold the set I had bought to another quilter and we both are happy. She loves them. I did not lose my $$$$$!! :-)

Ellen

Thanks for the info. I have never heard of them, but as they say 'a picture is worth a thousand words."

I have Leader Grips, same idea as red snappers. I struggle with them. One thing that has helped is cutting the longer pieces down to half. It made them easier to handle. However, I still have trouble getting the backing loaded evenly across the leader. I don't know if it's the way I sewed the dowel pockets or my method for snapping the grips on. Thinking about switching to zippers. For me I think it's almost easier to just pin as I'm forever pulling off the leader grips to reposition them trying to get the backing loaded and in the end my hands are so sore when I'm done!