Medieval fittings and rivets
Repeat the above steps for each additional fitting you want to attach to your medieval leather piece.
Tips:
Always work with caution and wear protective goggles to avoid injury. For larger leatherworks like armor, it's advisable to first create a sketch to plan the positions of the fittings. For thicker leather pieces, it can be helpful to prepare the hole with an awl or a thicker needle before using the hole punch.
Preparation of the leather:
Decide where on the piece of leather (e.g., belt or armor) you want to attach the fitting. Mark the spot with chalk or a piece of soap by placing light dots.
Create a hole for the rivet pin:
Use a hole punch to punch a hole at the marked spot. The hole should be large enough to accommodate the rivet pin but not too large to ensure a snug fit for the fitting.
Attaching the fitting:
Insert the rivet pin of the fitting through the previously punched hole in the leather. Place the leather with the fitting on your base.
Secure the rivet pin:
If the rivet pin is too long, you can shorten it slightly with pliers. However, leave enough length to bend or rivet it securely. Now use the hammer (or ball-peen hammer) to rivet the rivet pin. Gently strike until the pin flattens out and securely holds the fitting to the leather.
Final check:
Check if the fitting is firm and secure, and there is no wobbling. If necessary, you can carefully work with the hammer again.
Repeat: