How to Set Rivets in Leather

Setting rivets is a fundamental skill for any leatherworker, whether you're a seasoned artisan or just starting. Rivets provide a strong, durable, and clean-looking way to join multiple pieces of leather. This guide will walk you through the process, using the key insights from Tony See Patterns, and help you achieve professional results every time.

What Are Rapid Rivets?

Rapid rivets are a popular choice for leather projects. They consist of two parts: a hollow or capped shaft and a cap. When you set the rivet, the cap and shaft lock together, creating a secure bond. As demonstrated in the video, it's crucial to ensure your hole is large enough for the rivet to slide through comfortably and that the shaft is long enough to pass through all the layers of leather you want to hold together [00:18].

The Professional Method: Using an Arbor Press

For those serious about leatherworking, an arbor press is a game-changer. An arbor press provides consistent, controlled pressure, resulting in perfectly set rivets with a clean, curved dome shape. As the video shows, using an arbor press with the correct attachments makes the process simple and precise [01:03]. You simply place the rivet in the designated spot and apply pressure. This method guarantees a flawless finish, making it ideal for high-quality, professional-looking projects.

The DIY Method: Setting Rivets with a Hammer

If you're a hobbyist and don't want to invest in specialized equipment, you can easily set rivets using a hammer. This method is effective, though it requires a bit more care to ensure a good result. The key is to have a sturdy, flat metal surface underneath your leather and to use a metal hammer to strike the rivet cap. The video recommends this approach for those who don't want to spend money on expensive machines [01:23].

It's important to note the difference in the final look: the arbor press creates a beautiful, rounded head, while hammering will result in a completely flat head [01:43]. Both methods are functional, but the arbor press offers a more aesthetically pleasing finish.

Whether you choose the professional or DIY method, setting rivets in leather is a straightforward process that will elevate your leatherworking projects. By following these simple steps, you can create strong, lasting, and beautiful connections in your leather goods.

Video Source: How to set rivets in leather by Tony See Patterns.