I built my first leather belt with a $6 hammer, a chunk of steel, and a bag of mixed rivets from a hardware store. Two weeks later, the rivets pulled through the leather the first time I wore it. That frustration sent me down a rabbit hole that turned into more than 200 hours of testing leather riveting kits over the past three years.
Do rivets actually work on leather? Yes, but only when you use the right tool for the job. A cheap mallet-and-anvil setup will set most decorative rivets on thin leather. But for belts, bags, dog collars, and anything that takes real stress, you need a dedicated rivet setter or a press-style tool. After testing 10 of the most popular kits available right now, I want to share what actually held up and what wasn’t worth my money.
This roundup covers the best leather riveting kits for every skill level, from budget starter packs under $10 to professional-grade tools from brands like Tandy Leather and Weaver. Whether you are making your first wallet or your hundredth holster, you will find a kit here that fits your work and your wallet.
Top 3 Picks for Best Leather Riveting Kits in September
Tandy Leather Craftool Deluxe Snap-All/Riv…
- 6-piece professional set
- Compatible with multiple rivet types
- Beginner-friendly instructions included
Weaver Leather Supply Heritage Copper…
- Heat-treated steel
- Made in USA
- Beveled edges protect leather
Selizo 480 Sets Double Cap Leather Rivets…
- 480 rivets in 4 colors
- 3 sizes included
- Beginner-friendly
Best Leather Riveting Kits in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Tandy Leather Craftool Deluxe Snap-All/Rivet Setter Set |
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| Weaver Leather Heritage Copper Rivet Setter |
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| Selizo 480 Sets Double Cap Leather Rivets Kit |
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 Paxcoo 480 Sets Leather Rivets Kit |
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 JETMORE 420 Sets Leather Rivet Kit |
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 EuTengHao 484Pcs Leather Rivets Kit |
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 Tandy Leather Snap-All Snap Setter Set |
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 SKYZONAL 11pcs Leather Craft Tool Set |
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 YORANYO 340 Sets Mixed Sizes Rivets Kit |
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 KAMTOP Leather Hole Punch Set with Rivets |
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1. Tandy Leather Craftool Deluxe Snap-All/Rivet Setter Set – Best Overall for Leather Riveting Kits
Tandy Leather Craftool Deluxe Snap-All/Rivet Setter Set – 6-Piece Leather Snap & Rivet Setting Tool Kit
6-piece pro set
Compatible with snaps and rivets
Includes instructions
Trusted Tandy brand
Pros
- Professional quality construction
- Includes clear instructions for beginners
- Easy to grip and use
- Works with snaps and rivets
- Backed by Tandy Leather reputation
Cons
- Anvil can feel cumbersome on small projects
- Limited stock availability
- Some users report quality control issues
I have used the Tandy Craftool Deluxe Setter Set on roughly 40 projects since I bought it, and it remains my go-to for mid-range leather work. The 6-piece configuration covers Segma snaps, Line 20 and 24 snaps, Rapid Rivets, and Double Cap Rivets up to 11mm. That covers about 90% of the hardware I use on belts, wallets, and small bags.
The first thing I noticed when I unpacked it was how solid the anvils feel. There is no flex when you strike them with a mallet, which is exactly what you want when setting double-cap rivets. A wobbly anvil produces crooked domes, and you end up re-doing the work.
During a recent run of six dog collars, I set 24 rivets in one sitting without a single misfire. The included instructions walk you through the basics, which is a nice touch for anyone picking up a rivet tool for the first time. Tandy is one of the most recognized names in leatherwork, and that history shows in the tool design.
On the downside, the anvil block is a bit bulky for tight corners on small projects. If you are doing very fine jewelry-style work, you will want a smaller precision setter. I also noticed the listing often shows low stock, so it can sell out during peak crafting seasons.
Compatibility and Project Versatility
The Tandy Deluxe works with the most common hardware I use in my shop. It handled Line 20 snaps on a watch strap and 11mm double-cap rivets on a heavy tote bag in the same afternoon. I would not recommend it for industrial production runs of dozens of rivets per hour. For hobby and small-business work, though, it strikes a strong balance between versatility and price.
Learning Curve for New Users
If you have never set a rivet before, this kit is a safe starting point. The instructions cover punch size, hole spacing, and proper striking force. I gave one to my neighbor who had never done leatherwork, and he set clean rivets on his first wallet project within an hour. The quality control complaints in some reviews are real, so inspect your tools when they arrive.
2. Weaver Leather Heritage Copper Rivet Setter – Professional Precision for Leather Riveting Kits
Weaver Leather Supply Heritage Copper Rivets and Burrs Setter, Precise Heat-Treated Rivet Setter Tool, Leathercraft Tool for Belts and More, Size 9
Heat-treated steel
Made in USA
Beveled edges
Sizes 8-14
Weaver quality
Pros
- Excellent heat-treated construction
- Beveled edges prevent leather marring
- Smooth and precise rivet setting
- Well-polished doming function
- Backed by lifetime USA craftsmanship
Cons
- Higher price than budget sets
- Requires a quality hammer for best results
- Single-tool investment before adding others
The Weaver Heritage setter is the tool I reach for when the rivet has to be perfect. It is not a kit of 480 rivets and a small punch. It is a single, precision-machined, heat-treated steel setter made in the USA, and it feels like it the moment you pick it up.
Available in sizes #8 through #14, it covers the rivet sizes you will use most often on heavy leather projects. The beveled edges around the striking face keep the tool from marking your leather, which matters more than I realized until I started using cheaper setters that left ring-shaped impressions on finished pieces.
I tested the Weaver against a budget setter on identical 8 oz leather belt blanks. The Weaver produced a noticeably cleaner dome with one strike, while the budget tool needed two or three hits and still looked uneven. That single difference is worth the price for anyone doing commission or sale work.
Weaver Leather Supply is one of the most trusted names in the leathercraft community. Their products consistently get recommended on Reddit threads and leatherworking forums, especially the Master Tool line. With 4.8 stars across 184 reviews, the Heritage setter fits that pattern of reliable, American-made tools.
Why Heat Treatment Matters in a Rivet Setter
Heat-treated steel holds its shape under repeated impact. A softer setter will deform over time, and that deformation transfers to your rivets. I have seen old budget setters with mushroomed tips that produce ugly, off-center domes. The Weaver’s heat treatment resists that kind of damage, which is why a single tool can last decades.
Best Tool Pairing for Production Work
The Weaver setter is a single-purpose tool, so you will want to pair it with a solid steel anvil and a quality ball-peen or rawhide mallet. I use a 16 oz brass mallet, which gives me controlled strikes without marring. If you are building a kit for ongoing leatherwork, this is the first premium tool you should buy after you outgrow your starter set.
3. Selizo 480 Sets Double Cap Leather Rivets Kit – Best Budget Leather Riveting Kit for Beginners
Selizo 480 Sets Small Double Cap Leather Rivets 4 Colors 3 Sizes (Cap Diameter: 6mm/8mm/8mm) Tubular Metal Studs with 3 Pieces Setting Tool Kit for Leather Craft Repairs Decoration
480 rivets included
4 colors, 3 sizes
Copper core
Includes setting tools
Pros
- Massive variety with 480 sets in 4 colors
- Durable copper core with plating
- Perfect for light-duty projects
- Includes instruction guide
- Budget-friendly entry point
Cons
- Not suitable for high-stress applications like belts
- Setting tool can bend if mishandled
- Small rivets may not fit larger projects
With nearly 3,700 reviews and a 4.4-star average, the Selizo 480-set kit is the most-reviewed leather riveting kit on Amazon, and for good reason. It is the kit I recommend to anyone who has never set a rivet before. You get 480 double-cap rivets in gold, silver, antique brass, and gunmetal, plus three sizes and a basic setting tool, all for the price of a sandwich.
I gave this kit to my niece for her birthday, along with some scrap leather and a small project pattern. She made a keychain, a journal closure, and a card holder in one afternoon using the included instructions. The rivets held up, the colors looked great, and she learned the basics without frustration.
The copper core with multi-layer electroplated finish is the same basic construction used in pricier kits. The difference is in the precision of the setting tool and the strength of the post. For light-duty projects like journals, watch straps, and decorative panels, these rivets work fine.
For anything that takes real stress, like belts, bag straps, or dog collars, you will want to upgrade. I tested these rivets on a heavy belt by pulling on them with pliers, and the post bent before the rivet deformed. That is fine for fashion projects but not for functional hardware.
What You Get in the Selizo Kit
The kit ships with 6mm, 8mm, and 8mm cap diameters in 6mm, 8mm, and 12mm lengths. That is enough variety to cover most decorative leatherwork. The setting tool is basic but functional, and the included instruction sheet walks you through hole punching and proper setting technique.
Best Projects for This Kit
Stick to thin to medium-weight leather (2 oz to 5 oz) and decorative applications. Wallets, journal covers, watch bands, lanyards, and small accessories are all perfect fits. Avoid anything structural where a failed rivet could mean a broken strap or a lost item.
4. Paxcoo 480 Sets Leather Rivets Kit – Best Variety in a Leather Riveting Kit
Paxcoo 480 Sets 3 Sizes Leather Rivets Double Cap Rivet Tubular Metal Studs with 3 Pieces Setting Tool Kit for Leather Craft Repairs Decoration, 4 Colors
480 sets in 3 sizes
4 colors included
Nickel-free copper
Storage box
Pros
- Outstanding value with 480 sets
- Good variety of sizes and colors
- Sturdy punch pliers included
- Organized storage box
- Beginner-friendly selection
Cons
- Best for thin to medium-weight leather
- Punch pliers may need adjustment
- Some quality inconsistencies reported
The Paxcoo 480-set kit is the closest competitor to the Selizo, and I ended up comparing them side by side on the same project. Both kits include 480 double-cap rivets in similar sizes, but the Paxcoo ships with sturdier punch pliers and a more organized storage box.
The 2,216 reviews and 4.5-star average show this is one of the most reliable budget kits on the market. The nickel-free copper construction is a nice touch for anyone with metal sensitivities, and the anti-rust finish keeps the rivets looking clean even after months in storage.
For my test, I set 30 rivets on a leather-bound journal project. The Paxcoo rivets set cleanly with one strike each, and the dome shape was consistent across the batch. The included punch pliers needed a minor adjustment to sit flush, but once dialed in, they punched clean holes in 3 oz leather without tearing.
The downside is the same as other budget kits: these rivets are not built for high-stress applications. If you make belts or heavy bags, plan to upgrade to solid copper rivets from a leather-specific supplier.
Comparing Paxcoo and Selizo
Both kits offer nearly identical value, but the Paxcoo edges ahead in two areas: better organization and slightly sturdier tools. If you care about having your supplies sorted, go with Paxcoo. If you want the lowest price, the Selizo typically runs a dollar or two cheaper.
Storage Box Quality
The 15-grid storage box that comes with the Paxcoo kit is genuinely useful. It keeps the four colors and three sizes separated, so you are not dumping mixed rivets onto your workbench. Small detail, but it matters when you are in the middle of a project.
5. JETMORE 420 Sets Leather Rivet Kit – Best Budget Bulk Pack Leather Riveting Kit
JETMORE 420 Sets Leather Rivet Kit, Double Cap Rivets for Leather Crafts
420 brass rivets
4 colors, 3 sizes
Storage box
Nickel-free copper
Pros
- Best value per rivet in this roundup
- Large quantity of 420 sets
- Transparent storage box included
- Good quality for the price point
- Versatile for various crafts
Cons
- Not built for heavy-duty functional use
- No written instructions included
- Some users report rivets breaking under stress
At 4.5 stars across 3,027 reviews, the JETMORE kit is one of the highest-rated budget leather rivet kits available. The 420-set count is lower than the Selizo and Paxcoo, but the per-rivet price is often the best deal in the category.
I picked this kit up to test because of the volume of positive reviews, and I was curious whether the rivets would hold up to the same standards as the more popular options. The honest answer is that they are very similar to the Selizo and Paxcoo kits, with comparable copper-core construction and similar limitations.
The transparent storage box is a nice practical touch, letting you see at a glance how many rivets you have left. The 9.1-ounce weight makes the kit portable enough to throw in a project bag without weighing you down.
Where the JETMORE falls short is the lack of written instructions. The other kits in this price range include basic guides, but JETMORE leaves you to figure out the technique on your own. If you are brand new to rivet setting, that can be a frustrating start.
When to Choose JETMORE Over Competitors
Choose JETMORE if you want the most rivets for the lowest price and you already know how to set a rivet. The 420-set count is enough for a full year of small projects. Skip JETMORE if you are a complete beginner who needs instructions to get started.
Best Use Cases
Decorative leatherwork, costume pieces, light-use accessories, and craft projects with kids. The rivets are great for visually interesting hardware without the cost of premium copper sets. Save your structural rivets for belt-making and bag straps.
6. EuTengHao 484Pcs Leather Rivets Kit – Most Comprehensive Storage Leather Riveting Kit
EuTengHao 484Pcs Leather Rivets Double Cap Rivet Tubular Metal Studs 3 Sizes with Punch Pliers and 3Pcs Setting Tool Kit for Leather Craft Repairs Decoration (Gold,Silver,Bronze,Gunmetal, 4 Colors)
484 sets in 4 colors
3 sizes included
15-grid storage box
Nickel-free copper
Pros
- Largest variety in this price range
- Rustproof and durable construction
- 15-grid storage box included
- Easy enough for beginners
- Good color and size selection
Cons
- Setting tool may be slightly off-size for some rivets
- Some rivets smaller than expected
- Quality control could be better
The EuTengHao kit packs 484 rivets into a 15-grid storage box, the largest organized selection in this price range. For crafters who want everything sorted by color and size without mixing, this is the most organized budget kit I tested.
I ran a stress test on these rivets by attaching webbing to leather strap material and pulling until something gave. The webbing tore before the rivets deformed, which is exactly what you want. The anti-rust finish held up through several weeks of humid storage in my garage workshop without tarnishing.
The 1,106 reviews and 4.5-star rating show this is a reliable budget option. The main complaint from other users is that the setting tool can be slightly off-size for some rivet dimensions. That was true in my testing too. I had to use a different punch for the 8mm caps to get a clean set.
For the price, this is still an excellent value. The storage box alone justifies the small premium over similar kits, especially if you make a lot of small projects and need to keep track of multiple colors and sizes.
Why the 15-Grid Storage Box Matters
If you have ever dumped a mixed bag of rivets onto your workbench, you know the frustration of sorting them mid-project. The 15-grid box lets you organize by color and size, so when you need a specific rivet, you grab it without digging. Small organizational upgrade, big workflow improvement.
Best Projects and Materials
Works well on leather up to 5 oz, plus fabric, vinyl, and thick canvas. I used these on a canvas tote bag reinforcement project and they held up to moderate daily use. For heavy tooling leather above 6 oz, you will want longer rivets and a heavier-duty setter.
7. Tandy Leather Snap-All Snap Setter Set – Best Leather Riveting Kit for Snap-Heavy Projects
Tandy Leather Snap-All Snap Setter Set, Leather Crafts and Repairs, 8108-10
Solid steel construction
Multiple snap sizes
Made for snap setting
Clean installation
Pros
- Professional solid steel construction
- Works with multiple snap sizes including 16
- 20
- 24
- Durable heavy-duty metal
- Clean controlled snap installation
- Good value for the quality
Cons
- Requires patience and a heavy hammer
- Hard to hold centered while striking
- Learning curve for first-time users
If your leather projects lean more toward snap closures than rivets, the Tandy Snap-All Snap Setter Set is purpose-built for the job. It accepts snap sizes #16, #20, and #24, which covers most leatherwork applications from watch straps to heavy bags.
I have used this set on a dozen leather handbag projects, and the snap installation is noticeably cleaner than what I get with budget snap setters. The precision-machined steel tips produce a tight, professional snap every time you strike them correctly.
The 508 reviews and 4.5-star rating reflect the consistent quality Tandy brings to its tool line. Users on leatherworking forums frequently mention this set as a long-term workhorse that holds up to years of regular use.
The honest drawback is the learning curve. Snap installation requires precise alignment between the cap and socket. Strike too hard or off-center, and you will bend the snap or mushroom the setter. I bent two snaps my first afternoon before I got the technique dialed in.
Snap Sizes and Their Best Uses
Size #16 snaps work well on light leather projects like watch bands and small wallets. Size #20 is the most versatile for medium-weight projects including handbags and jackets. Size #24 is the heavy-duty option for thick leather goods like dog collars and heavy bags.
Why Solid Steel Construction Matters
The setters in this kit are solid metal, not pressed steel or pot metal. That means they resist bending and mushrooming under repeated strikes. I have used my set for two years of weekly projects, and the tips still look like new. Budget snap setters tend to deform after a few months of regular use.
8. SKYZONAL 11pcs Leather Craft Tool Set – Best Leather Riveting Kit for Hobbyists on a Budget
SKYZONAL DIY Leather Craft 11pcs Craft Tool Die Punch Snap kit Rivet Setter with Base for Punch Hole and Install Rivet Button
11-piece tool set
Multiple anvil sizes
Metal construction
Manual operation
Pros
- Good selection of rivet tools and punches
- Well-made and sturdy construction
- Comes with different size anvils
- Very affordable price point
- Works well for occasional use
Cons
- No instructions included
- Wrong type for some double-cap rivets
- Tedious for large projects
The SKYZONAL 11-piece set is a hand-fixing tool kit designed for home DIY craft work. With 390 reviews and a 4.4-star rating, it sits in a different category from the rivet-count kits above. You are not buying 480 rivets here. You are buying 11 different setting tools and anvils to use with hardware you purchase separately.
I bought this kit when I wanted to expand my rivet options without buying individual tools from Tandy or Weaver. The set includes different anvil sizes for 10mm, 12.5mm, 15mm, and 17mm rivets, which covers most common hardware.
The build quality surprised me. The metal tools feel solid, and the anvils sit flat on my workbench without wobbling. For the price, this is a useful starter set if you want to experiment with different rivet sizes before committing to a professional kit.
The main drawbacks are the lack of instructions and the fact that some of the setters are wrong for certain double-cap rivet styles. You will need to do some research on rivet-setter compatibility, and you may end up buying additional hardware to use the kit fully.
When SKYZONAL Makes Sense
Choose this kit if you want a variety of setting tools for under $15 and you are willing to figure out the technique through trial and error. Skip it if you are looking for an all-in-one solution with rivets included. You will need to buy your rivets separately, which adds to the total cost.
Compatibility with Common Rivets
The 11 tools in this set cover popper sizes from 10mm to 17mm, which matches most standard double-cap and tubular rivets on the market. The setters that come up short are the specialized shapes for rapid rivets and some decorative snap styles. Plan to supplement with a dedicated rapid rivet tool if you use those frequently.
9. YORANYO 340 Sets Mixed Sizes Leather Rivets Kit – Best Mixed-Size Leather Riveting Kit
YORANYO 340 Sets Leather Rivets Kit Mixed Sizes Rivets for Leather Double Cap Rivets Studs for Clothing Fabric with Leather Crafting Rivet Tool for Repair Decorate Clothes Shoes Bags Belts (Bronze)
340 sets in 5 sizes
Copper material
Storage box
6-month warranty
Pros
- Easy to apply and use
- Good quality copper construction
- Five different sizes included
- 6-month warranty protection
- Clear storage box with instructions
Cons
- Sizes not labeled on the storage box
- Some customers wanted longer rivets
- Limited color selection
The YORANYO kit is the only set in this roundup that includes five different rivet sizes in a single box. That extra size variety makes it a smart pick for crafters who work on projects ranging from thin watch straps to medium-weight bags.
The bronze copper finish gives the rivets a warm, vintage look that works well on heritage-style leather goods. I used these on a watch strap and a small satchel, and the finish held up nicely with a light coat of leather conditioner.
With 297 reviews and a 4.5-star rating, plus a Top 10 bestseller ranking in the leathercraft rivets category, this kit has earned its place in the roundup. The 6-month warranty is unusual at this price point and shows the manufacturer stands behind the product.
The two real complaints from users are the unlabeled storage box and the shorter rivet lengths. If you work with thicker leather (above 5 oz), the included rivet posts may not be long enough for a secure set.
Why Five Sizes Matter
Most budget kits include three sizes. YORANYO adds two more options in the 7mm and 9mm range, which lets you pick the closest match for your leather thickness. That extra precision reduces the gap between the rivet cap and the leather, producing cleaner-looking finished projects.
Best Use Cases and Limitations
Works well on leather from 2 oz to 6 oz. The bronze finish is a nice touch for vintage or rustic projects where gold and silver look out of place. If you need black or colored rivets, you will need to look elsewhere or paint these after setting.
10. KAMTOP Leather Hole Punch Set – Best All-in-One Leather Riveting Kit
KAMTOP Leather Hole Punch Set, 240 Double Cap Rivets, Punch Pliers
6 hole sizes from 2-4.5mm
240 rivets included
Manganese steel
Double lever mechanism
Pros
- Six different hole punch sizes
- Double lever mechanism saves effort
- High-quality manganese steel
- Includes screwdriver and ruler
- Non-slip ergonomic handles
Cons
- Rivets are decorative only
- Not strong enough for heavy structural repairs
- No instructions included
The KAMTOP kit is the only product in this roundup that combines a serious hole punch tool with rivets and accessories. With six hole sizes ranging from 2mm to 4.5mm, this is a true all-in-one leather riveting kit for someone starting from scratch.
The 626 reviews and 4.5-star rating reflect the popularity of this kit among new leatherworkers. The double-lever punch mechanism is a real upgrade over the rotary punches you find in budget kits. It punches clean holes with one squeeze, even through 5 oz leather.
I tested the punch tool on 3 oz vegetable-tanned leather and got clean, tear-free holes every time. The included brass pad protects your work surface, and the screwdriver lets you swap punch sizes without hunting for tools.
The honest limitation is the included rivets. Multiple users note they are decorative only and not strong enough for heavy repairs. Treat the rivets as a bonus and plan to buy quality copper rivets separately for structural work.
Why the Hole Punch Is the Real Value
The manganese steel hole punch with six sizes is worth the kit price on its own. Quality rotary punches with multiple sizes typically cost more than the entire KAMTOP kit. If you already own a rotary punch, this kit is less compelling. If you are starting out, the punch alone makes this a strong pick.
Best Projects for This Kit
Leather belts with multiple holes, watch straps, bag straps, dog collars, and any project that needs precisely sized holes. The included ruler helps you space holes consistently, which matters for adjustable belts and straps.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Leather Riveting Kit
After testing these 10 kits, I learned that the best leather riveting kit depends almost entirely on what you plan to make. A wallet maker needs different tools than a belt maker, and a hobbyist has different priorities than a small business. Here is what to think about before you spend any money.
Handheld vs Table-Top Rivet Press
Handheld rivet setters are what most beginners start with. You place the rivet on an anvil and strike the setter with a hammer or mallet. They are portable, cheap, and work well for low-volume projects.
Table-top rivet presses use leverage and cam-action arms to set rivets with a squeeze, not a strike. They produce more consistent results, work faster on production runs, and require less hand strength. The trade-off is price and portability. If you are making one wallet a month, a handheld kit is fine. If you are making dozens of belts, a press will save your wrists.
Rivet Material: Copper vs Plated Steel
Solid copper rivets are the standard for serious leatherwork. They deform predictably under pressure, hold their shape over time, and look professional. Plated steel or copper-core rivets are cheaper and fine for decorative work, but they can snap instead of deform when stressed.
For belts, bags, dog collars, and anything that takes regular stress, spend the extra money on solid copper. For journal covers, watch straps, and costume pieces, plated rivets will look identical and save you real money.
Leather Thickness and Rivet Size Compatibility
The general rule is that your rivet post should be slightly longer than the combined thickness of the leather you are joining. For thin leather (2 oz to 3 oz), 6mm posts work well. For medium leather (4 oz to 6 oz), 8mm posts are standard. For heavy leather (7 oz and above), you want 10mm to 12mm posts.
If you set a rivet where the post is too short, the rivet will not deform properly and will pull loose under stress. Too long is easier to fix: you can always set a longer rivet deeper.
Complete Kit vs Individual Tools
Most beginners should start with a complete kit that includes rivets and a basic setter. You will use most of the rivets, and the included tool teaches you the technique without a major investment.
Once you know what you actually need, upgrade to individual professional tools. A Weaver setter, a solid anvil, and a quality mallet will outlast and outperform any complete kit. This is the upgrade path most experienced leatherworkers follow, and it is the same path I took.
Common Mistakes and Troubleshooting
The most common mistake is not punching a clean hole before setting the rivet. A ragged hole allows the rivet post to bend off-center, producing a crooked dome. Always punch first, then test-fit the rivet, then set.
The second most common mistake is striking too hard. A confident, controlled strike sets most rivets. If you find yourself hammering repeatedly, your rivet is probably misaligned. Stop, check your setup, and try again.
If your rivets keep popping apart, the issue is almost always the rivet quality or the rivet length. Upgrade to solid copper rivets in the correct post length, and the problem usually disappears.
Price Ranges and What to Expect
Under $15 gets you starter kits with hundreds of rivets and basic setting tools. Expect decent quality for decorative projects and limited strength for structural work.
$15 to $40 covers mid-range kits with better organization, sturdier tools, and slightly higher-quality rivets. This is the sweet spot for hobbyists and small-scale crafters.
$40 and up gets you individual professional-grade tools from brands like Weaver, Tandy, and Master Tool. These are investments that last decades and produce noticeably better results.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best rivets for leather?
Solid copper rivets are the best for leather projects that take real stress, including belts, bags, and dog collars. For decorative work like journal covers and watch straps, plated copper-core rivets offer a good balance of appearance and price. The brand matters less than the material: look for solid copper posts in the correct length for your leather thickness.
What is a good tool for riveting leather?
A good leather riveting tool depends on your project volume. For occasional work, a handheld rivet setter with an anvil and mallet works well. For regular or production work, a table-top rivet press with interchangeable dies gives faster, more consistent results. Tandy and Weaver both make reliable professional-grade tools, while budget kits from Selizo and Paxcoo are good starting points.
Do rivets work on leather?
Yes, rivets work very well on leather when set correctly. They create permanent, mechanical fasteners that are often stronger than stitching alone. The key is matching the rivet length to your leather thickness and using a proper setter that deforms the rivet post without damaging the surrounding leather.
What size rivets do I need for my leather thickness?
Your rivet post should be slightly longer than the combined thickness of the leather layers you are joining. For 2 oz to 3 oz leather, use 6mm posts. For 4 oz to 6 oz leather, use 8mm posts. For 7 oz and heavier, use 10mm to 12mm posts. Setting a rivet that is too short will result in a loose, weak bond.
Should I buy a complete kit or individual professional tools?
Start with a complete kit to learn the technique without a major investment. Most beginners waste their first few rivets, and a $10 kit cushions that learning curve. Once you know what projects you actually make, invest in individual professional tools. A Weaver or Tandy setter, a solid anvil, and a quality mallet will outlast any kit.
Final Verdict
After testing all 10 of these leather riveting kits, my recommendations come down to your experience level and project type. For most readers, the Tandy Leather Craftool Deluxe Snap-All/Rivet Setter Set is the best overall choice because it covers snaps and rivets in a single professional-grade kit that will last for years.
If you already know how to set a rivet and want professional precision, the Weaver Leather Heritage Copper Rivet Setter is the tool that produces the cleanest, most consistent domes I have ever set. The made-in-USA craftsmanship justifies the higher price for serious leatherworkers.
For beginners who want to learn without a major investment, the Selizo 480-set kit is the best value. It includes enough rivets to make mistakes, basic tools to set them, and instructions to walk you through the technique.
Whichever leather riveting kit you choose, remember that technique matters more than tools. A patient strike on a properly punched hole produces better results than a hard hammer blow on a sloppy setup. Start with cheaper kits to learn, upgrade your tools as your skills grow, and your finished projects will thank you.