Hardware for Leathercrafting & Leatherworking

Take your leather projects to the next level with premium leather hardware sourced from trusted manufacturers. Weaver Leather Supply works with carefully vetted leather hardware suppliers to source the best hardware options on the market for a range of leather crafting projects. Discover a wide selection of belt buckles, halter buckles, handbag closures, purse hardware, leather fasteners, conchos, chicago screws, leather rivets, Jiffy Rivets®, swivel snaps, metal snaps, leather spots, and more.

Solid Brass vs. Stainless Steel: Which Should I Use for My Leather Projects?

Solid brass hardware and stainless steel hardware are two of the most popular options when it comes to leathercrafting. Both are alloys, or mixtures of different metals. Brass contains mostly copper and zinc, while stainless steel is composed of iron, carbon, and chromium. Properties of these metals can vary depending on the amount of each metal in the mixture, but both brass and stainless steel are typically strong and corrosion resistant.

Generally, brass is more flexible than stainless steel, making it easier to cast and create small, detailed pieces of solid brass hardware. However, its flexibility also makes brass more prone to scratching than steel. Stainless steel hardware comes out slightly on top in terms of durability, but is more difficult to manufacture. Higher manufacturing costs make stainless steel hardware a more expensive option for crafters.

Overall, solid brass and stainless steel are both great options when it comes to leather hardware. Ultimately, your choice of hardware comes down to your budget and personal preference. Explore our full selection of snap fasteners, belt buckles, snap buttons, handbag hardware, belt hardware, and more.

What Kind of Rivets Should I Use?

The type of rivets you should use depends on your particular leather project. Look at the thickness of the leather, the level of durability required, and the overall appearance you want to give your project.

Insta-Rivets- known as single cap rivets, these rivets have one finished cap and one post. Insta-Rivets are suitable for light to medium duty projects like wallets, belts, and bags, providing a clean, finished look on one side of the leather.

Double Cap Rivets- rivets have finished caps on both sides for a symmetrical appearance. Ideal for projects where both sides of the leather are visible, such as belts, straps, and dog collars, double cap rivets offer a stronger hold and more polished appearance than single cap rivets.

Tubular Rivets- rivets have a hollow tube post that is flared out to secure the rivet. Suitable for heavy duty projects like saddlery, harnesses, and industrial leather goods, tubular rivets typically have a smooth cap on one side and a flared end on the other. They are extremely strong and durable, providing a secure hold for thick and heavy leather.

Decorative Rivets- rivets come in various shapes, sizes, and finishes with decorative tops, and are used for embellishment on leather goods like purses, jackets, and accessories.

By selecting the right type of rivets for leatherwork and your unique project, you can ensure that your leather project looks great and lasts for years. Be sure to check out our exclusive selection of Jiffy Rivets®.

What Hardware Should I Choose for My Project?

When it comes to leather hardware, the sheer number of options available can be overwhelming. Your choice of hardware largely depends on your project, as well as personal preference. The great thing about leathercrafting is that the creative possibilities are endless-you can try as many leather and hardware combinations as you like.

One of the first things you probably think of when it comes to hardware is the finish. You can choose classic stainless steel or solid brass hardware, or mix things up with black hardware, antique finishes, or even colorful iridescent options.

As well as hardware finishes, you should take durability into consideration. If your project will be used regularly, or maybe used outdoors, you'll want durable, weather-resistant hardware. However, if your project is more for show or light use, you can get away with more lightweight decorative hardware options.

Choosing leather hardware doesn't have to be stressful! There are endless hardware options out there, so you're sure to find something that suits your needs and looks amazing on your leather project.