How are rivets applied and used in leather clothing?

Question

I'm thinking of making some leather chaps and vests and stuff for use on my motorcycle.

I have an industrial sewing machine, but would prefer to do it in a unique way, that is portable. I was thinking... rivets???

Answer 1

I found this rivet machine.

http://www.mfgsup.com/eyeletting_riveting_fastening_systems/rivet_machines/215bs10a.html

Answer 2

Rivets and rivet setting tool with special little anvil. The rivets (usually copper) are set into a hole in the leather and the female part is set on top then the rivet is smashed with a setting tool driven by a hammer. Pretty basic really. You can also do snaps the same way. go to a large fabric store or possibly craft store for supplies.

Answer 3

Sounds like a good idea to me.
To use rivets you will need a leather hole punch that will correspond to the size of your rivets. Use the machine that TayLee mentioned, it will give you a better finished product. Just overlap the leather, evenly space out and mark the location of your rivets, how far apart depends on you, punch your holes and use the machine.