Manufacturer · Fashion & Home Accessories
For bags and leather goods, double-cap rivets are most commonly used – with caps on both sides, since both the front and back of the material are visible. They secure handles, straps, rings and flaps, with the pin length matching the leather thickness and the hole pre-drilled. The finish is selected to match buckles, rings and zips.
Rivets for bags: why double-cap
In garments, the back of rivets is hidden under lining or pockets, so a small base is sufficient. For bags, belts and straps, however, the back is often visible – for example, inside a handle or strap. Double-cap rivets have decorative caps on both sides, giving a finished look while protecting the leather surface from sharp edges.
Where rivets are used on bags
- attaching handles to the bag body;
- straps and belts to rings and carabiners;
- corners and bottoms that bear weight;
- flaps, pockets and compartments;
- decorative accents on flaps or sides;
- belts and straps when fastening buckles and studs.
How to choose rivets for leather
Material thickness
Leather thickness is measured in millimetres, usually at the thickest point – where it folds around a ring or where several layers overlap. The pin must pass through the entire thickness and leave enough length to be secured in the top cap. Thin leather and faux leather use shorter pins and an inner backing plate.
Cap diameter
Smaller caps are used for small bags and wallets, larger caps for big bags, backpacks and belts. Larger caps distribute pressure over a wider area, reducing the risk of leather tearing around the rivet.
Material
Brass and copper are preferred for bags – they do not rust and are strong enough. Aluminium is suitable for decorative elements and lightweight items but not for handles that bear weight.
Rivets installation for leather – steps
- Mark the position with a template, especially for symmetrical handles.
- Drill a hole with a punch or revolving pliers. The hole should be slightly smaller than the pin.
- Insert the pin from below and place the top cap.
- Place the piece in a die with recesses for both caps to avoid flattening the bottom one.
- Set the rivet with a press in one smooth motion.
- Check that the rivet does not rotate and the leather around it is not cracked.
Finishes and style
| Finish | Product style |
|---|---|
| Gold, light brass | Classic and elegant women's bags |
| Antique brass, antique copper | Vintage, natural leather look, men's bags |
| Nickel, matte nickel | Modern and minimalist designs |
| Gunmetal, black | Dark collections, urban style |
Rivets should match the finish of other metal accessories – buckles, rings, zips and metal logo plates. Tone differences are immediately noticeable on metal parts placed close together.
Rivets for belts and straps
For belts, rivets usually secure the folded end around the buckle and stud. Double-cap rivets are standard here, and screw fastenings are often used to allow buckle replacement. The pin must pass through two leather layers plus any backing. Smaller rivets with smooth backs are chosen for watch straps, collars and accessories to avoid skin irritation.
Rivets or stitching
In leather goods, rivets are often combined with stitching. Stitching distributes load along the seam, while rivets lock the highest-stress points, such as handle ends. Heavy-content bags can have seams that eventually tear, or rivets that cut the leather if used alone. The combination provides the strongest result.
Common issues with bag rivets
- Leather tears around rivets – cap is too small or no backing plate is used.
- Rivet rotates – hole is too wide or pin is too short.
- Bottom cap is flattened – a die for single-cap rivets was used.
- Scratches on finish – dirty or worn die.
- Different tone compared to rings – parts come from different batches or manufacturers.
Rivets for textile bags
Rivets are not only for leather. Canvas bags, Cordura backpacks and tarpaulin bags also use rivets on handles and corners. Textile frays more easily around the pin than leather, so the area is reinforced with an extra layer, tape or backing. Holes in dense textiles are made with a hot awl, which melts synthetic threads to prevent fraying. Larger caps are recommended to distribute load over more threads.
Quality control in production
During batch production of bags, randomly check samples from each batch: pull handles with force close to real use, bend straps around rivets and inspect for leather cracks. Compare finish tone with approved samples in daylight. Separate and document rejects to quickly identify if the cause is the die, material or rivet batch.
Logo rivets for bags
Rivets on bags are visible and a convenient brand carrier. Caps can feature embossed logos, circular text or texture. In the rivets category, you will find standard models, and custom logo rivets can be discussed on request.
Polkom – rivets for bags and leather haberdashery
Polkom is a Bulgarian manufacturer and wholesaler of accessories with over 30 years of experience. We supply rivets, buckles, rings and metal logo plates in coordinated finishes, produce custom logo models and prepare samples for testing on your leather. Send your inquiry with material thickness, size and finish via the contact page.
