How to Set Split & Tubular Rivets

We know the importance of keeping your leather goods in beautiful condition, so when it comes to installing, replacing, or repairing split and tubular rivets – we’ve got you covered. We’re going to share with you our method for setting split and tubular rivets using the best tools available to yield a perfect result. Let’s get started…

How to Set a Split Rivet

Before setting your rivet, be sure that you have punched a hole in each piece of leather you will be using. To do this, use a simple punch tool and give it a few taps with a rawhide mallet. A variety of punch tools can be found in our online catalog for purchase.

1. Take the split rivet and put it through the leather. If you’re using multiple pieces of leather, stack them onto the rivet.
2. Place a washer on the rivet on the backside to keep it from pulling through the leather. 
3. Take your special split rivet tool (split rivet die) and place it between the two prongs. Strike the tool with a rawhide mallet to open the prongs. 
4. Once the prongs are spread, take a metal hammer and push the prongs flat onto the washer to smooth them out. 

How to Set a Tubular Rivet

1. Take your tubular rivet and put it through the leather. Place a washer on the rivet before setting it to keep it from pulling through the leather.
2. Use a metal block or hard surface to give leverage to the rivet. Take a rivet peening tool, place it on the end of the rivet, and give it a few taps with a rawhide mallet. 
3. Now your rivet is peened. You may want to give it a few taps with a metal hammer to smooth it out. 

How to Set a Large Tubular Rivet on a Wheel

The last thing we want to get into is how to use a heavy duty tubular rivet to repair a wheel on a piece of luggage. In this case, the tubular rivet is also the wheel axle. Let’s see how it’s done…

1. Insert the rivet into the wheel. Back it up with a washer for support.
2. Choose one of two different types of peening tools, starred or rolled, to peen the rivet. Place the peening tool on the end of the rivet and give it a few taps with a rawhide mallet. 
3. Again, you may want to tap it a few times with a metal hammer to smooth out the peened rivet.

If you want to see these helpful how-tos in action, watch our video where we explain more in depth what each tool does. All rivets and tools used are available for purchase online. Check it out!