How to set Saddler's Rivets - used in medieval times

Saddlers rivets are commonly used in leatherworking to secure layers of leather together or attach hardware such as buckles, straps, or decorations. They provide a sturdy and professional-looking finish. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to set saddlers rivets:

  1. Gather the necessary materials: You'll need the leather pieces you want to join, saddlers rivets (consisting of a male and female component), a hole punch or awl, a rivet setter, a hard surface like an anvil or a sturdy block of wood, and a hammer or mallet.

  2. Prepare the leather: Mark the desired location for the rivets on the leather pieces. Use a ruler or measuring tape to ensure accuracy. If you need to create holes for the rivets, use a hole punch or awl to make evenly spaced holes through both layers of leather where you marked.

  3. Insert the rivets: Take one of the leather pieces and slide the male component of the rivet (the one with the exposed post) through the hole from the front side. Place the female component (the one with the hollow tube) on the backside of the leather piece, aligning it with the post.

  4. Setting the rivets: Place the rivet on a hard surface, such as an anvil or a sturdy block of wood, with the post pointing up. Ensure that the rivet is stable and won't move around during the setting process.

  5. Position the rivet setter: Choose a rivet setter that matches the diameter of the rivet post. Insert the rivet setter over the post, with the concave side facing down. The concave side should fit snugly around the post.

  6. Set the rivet: Hold the rivet setter firmly in place and strike the top of the rivet setter with a hammer or mallet. Apply enough force to compress the post and flare it out within the female component. Strike the setter several times until the rivet is securely set and the layers of leather are held tightly together.

  7. Repeat the process: If you have more rivets to set, repeat steps 3 to 6 for each rivet.

  8. Finishing touches: Once all the rivets are set, check their tightness by gently tugging on the leather layers. Ensure that the rivets are secure and don't move or rotate. Trim any excess length from the rivet post if necessary, leaving a small amount to maintain the integrity of the rivet.

That's it! By following these steps, you can effectively set saddlers rivets in your leatherwork projects. Remember to practice caution while using the hammer or mallet to prevent accidentally striking your hand or fingers.