Leather Fastenings Explained: Which Closure is Best for Your Leathercraft Project?

One of the most common questions from leatherworkers is: “Which fastening should I use?” The answer depends entirely on the type of project you’re making.

Whether you’re crafting belts, handbags, dog collars, wallets or journal covers, choosing the right fastening will improve both the appearance and durability of your finished work. In this guide, we’ll compare the most popular leather fastenings and explain where each one performs best.

Best Fastenings for Leather Belts

For traditional belts, you’ll typically need:

• A quality buckle
• Chicago screws or rivets
• Leather keeper

If you want to swap buckles later, Chicago screws are the clear winner. For permanent construction, rivets provide exceptional strength.

Best Fastenings for Leather Bags

Leather bags experience constant movement and weight, so durability is essential.

Recommended hardware includes:

• Rivets for handles
• D-rings for shoulder straps
• Magnetic snap fasteners
• Roller buckles for adjustable straps

Combining different hardware types gives both strength and convenience.

Best Fastenings for Wallets & Card Holders

Slim leather goods benefit from compact hardware.

Popular choices include:

• Sam Browne studs
• Press studs
• Magnetic closures
• Small rivets

These maintain a clean profile without adding unnecessary bulk.

Best Fastenings for Journal Covers

Journal covers are often opened and closed repeatedly, making ease of use important.

Many leatherworkers choose:

• Sam Browne studs
• Elastic closures
• Magnetic fasteners

Sam Browne studs remain especially popular for traditional handcrafted notebooks.

Permanent vs Removable Fastenings

Choose Rivets When:

• Maximum strength is required
• The hardware won’t need replacing
• You’re making bags, straps or collars

Choose Chicago Screws When:

• Parts may need replacing
• Buckles are interchangeable
• Repairs are likely

Choose Magnetic Fasteners When:

• Convenience matters
• The project opens frequently
• You want a hidden closure

Choose Sam Browne Studs When:

• You want a heritage look
• Simple operation is important
• You’re making journals or satchels

Which Hardware Material is Best?

Solid brass continues to be one of the most popular choices because it offers:

• Excellent corrosion resistance
• Long service life
• Beautiful ageing and patina
• Premium appearance

For makers producing high-end leather goods, investing in quality hardware is every bit as important as selecting premium leather.

Find the Right Leather Hardware

Whether you’re crafting belts, handbags, dog collars, wallets or journal covers, choosing the right fastening will improve both the appearance and durability of your finished work.

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Article authored by leatherworker and founder of CARV for British Leather Supplies. British Leather Supplies stocks a wide range of premium leather hardware, including buckles, rivets, Chicago screws, Sam Browne studs and magnetic fasteners, helping leatherworkers create projects built to last.