Rivets are no-sew fasteners that can be used for both functional and purely decorative purposes. Functionally, rivets hold layers of material together permanently. Rivets are able to penetrate through very thick layers that would be difficult to stitch with a sewing machine. Rivets also save time because they eliminate the need for sewing and provide a more professional look.
Additionally, our magnetic snap rivets can be used as closures on wallets and purses.
KAMsnaps® professional presses and rivet dies make installing rivets easy, with perfect results every time.
Rivets are non‑sewing fasteners designed to hold together layers of material (like fabric, leather, vinyl, or webbing) permanently. Here's how they work:
Structure: A rivet consists of a cap and a stem; the stem passes through layers of material and flares out when pressed.
Installation:You align the rivet through the material, then use a press or pliers with matching dies to deform the stem—flattening it against the cap. This firmly clamps the layers together with a neat finish.
Why use them:Rivets allow you to fasten thicker or stiff materials that are difficult or time-consuming to sew, and they offer a professional, decorative appearance.
In summary: rivets provide a quick, sturdy, and decorative way to join materials without stitching—by mechanically securing them with a permanently deformed stem.
According to KamSnaps.com, the most commonly used types of rivets include:
Double-cap rivets – These have caps on both sides, offering a clean, finished look from front and back. They're ideal for items like belts, bags, and leather goods.
Single-cap rivets – These have a smooth cap on one side and a flatter base on the other. They're used where only one side is visible.
Rapid rivets (or tubular rivets)– Easy to install and commonly used in leathercraft and DIY projects.
Decorative rivets– These include fancy tops (like crystal or pearl designs) for embellishing projects while adding structure.
Each type varies in size and post length to suit different material thicknesses.
Rivet size depends on your material thickness and project type. For example, 6mm–9mm rivets work well for key fobs and fabric straps, while 10mm rivets are better for thicker materials like vinyl or leather. As a rule of thumb, use longer rivets for thicker layers and shorter ones for thinner fabrics
Top rivet brands in the US include Stanley Engineered Fastening, Arconic (Huck), Howmet Aerospace (Marson), and PennEngineering, known for industrial and automotive-grade fasteners. For crafters and small businesses, KAMsnaps® is a trusted brand offering high-quality rivets, snaps, and fasteners—popular for DIY, leatherwork, and sewing projects thanks to their durability and ease of use.