How to Use Rivets

Rivets are easy to use and help keep metal together. You can also use them for repairing handbags, for crafts or for when you do not want to sew something together. They come in handy for automotive use as well, when the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) rivets have to be removed from a part. To use rivets, you need a special tool that can be purchased from a hardware or automotive store.

Things You'll Need

• For automotive or metal use: Drill Rivet tool For leather, fabric and crafts: Multisize hole punch Cap rivet setting tool Cap rivet anvil Hammer

Instructions

Riveting for Metal and Automotive Use

1. Drill the proper-size hole, if needed, into the metal you are riveting.

2. Insert the rivet piece into your riveting tool.

3. Push the rivet through the holes.

4. Squeeze the trigger on the rivet tool to make the rivet expand.

5. Remove the tool and inspect to make sure that the rivet is seated properly.

Riveting for Crafts

1. Choose the right size for your needs and make the hole with a multisize hole punch. If you are doing this for a purse, leather, fabric or crafts, use cap rivets.

2. Insert the shaft of the rivet through the hole and attach the cap on top.

3. Place a spare piece of fabric on a solid surface to protect the work surface while you hammer.

4. Use the anvil and the hammer to hammer down the cap securely, with short taps.

5. Make sure it is seated tightly.