Concho Styles for Leathercraft: Screw-Back, Rivet, and Adhesive Compared

Quick answer

For most leathercraft projects, screw-back conchos are the best choice because they allow easy removal and repositioning without damaging the leather. Rivet conchos offer a permanent, low-profile attachment for heavy-duty use where the back won't be seen. Adhesive conchos work only as decorative accents on flat, low-flex surfaces. Choose based on whether you need removability, permanence, or a no-hole attachment.

Conchos add character to belts, bags, and saddles, but the attachment method matters as much as the design. A screw-back concho that loosens mid-ride or an adhesive concho that pops off a curved surface can ruin an otherwise solid piece.

This comparison breaks down screw-back, rivet, and adhesive concho styles using real catalog examples, so you can match the hardware to your project's needs and avoid common attachment failures.

Screw-Back Conchos: Removable and Reversible

Screw-back conchos use a threaded post and a screw that sandwiches the leather. The Pirate Concho is a classic example: it has an antique nickel finish, a screwback attachment, and measures 1-1/2" x 1-3/16". Because you can unscrew it, you can swap designs, replace damaged pieces, or adjust placement without punching new holes.

The trade-off is that screws can loosen over time, especially on items that flex or vibrate. Check them periodically and consider a touch of thread locker if the concho will be on a motorcycle or horse tack. Screw-back conchos also require a hole in the leather, so plan your layout before punching.

• Best for projects where you might want to change the look later, like a fashion belt or bag flap.
• Use a properly sized punch to avoid a sloppy fit; the post should pass through snugly.

Rivet Conchos: Permanent and Low-Profile

Rivet conchos are set with a rivet or snap, creating a permanent attachment. They sit flusher against the leather than screw-backs, which reduces snagging. This style is common on heavy-duty gear like motorcycle seats, chaps, and tack where you don't want anything working loose.

The downside is permanence: once set, removing the concho usually destroys it or leaves a hole. Rivet conchos also require more tools and skill to set cleanly. If you're new to riveting, practice on scrap leather first. For projects that need a secure, no-maintenance attachment, rivet conchos are hard to beat.

• Choose rivet conchos for items that will see heavy wear and won't need design changes.
• Set rivets on a solid surface and use the correct setter to avoid bending the concho.

Adhesive Conchos: No Holes, Limited Hold

Adhesive conchos attach with glue or adhesive backing. They're the easiest to apply and leave no holes, making them ideal for temporary decorations or for leather goods where you can't punch through, like a finished liner. However, adhesive bonds can fail on curved surfaces, under flex, or with temperature changes.

If you go this route, use a flexible leather adhesive and clamp the concho until fully cured. Roughen the back of the concho and the leather surface for better grip. Even then, avoid adhesive conchos on high-stress areas like belt loops or strap ends. They're best for display pieces or low-wear accents.

• Adhesive conchos work best on flat, rigid surfaces that won't bend.
• Always test the adhesive on scrap leather first to ensure compatibility.

Design and Size Considerations

Beyond attachment, concho style affects the overall look. Small star conchos add subtle Western flair, while a broken heart concho makes a bold statement. Motorcycle engine conchos appeal to biker aesthetics. Size matters too: a 1-1/2" concho like the Pirate Concho is substantial and works well as a focal point on a bag flap or belt.

Check the concho's dimensions against your leather width. A concho that's too large can overwhelm a narrow strap, while a tiny one can get lost on a wide panel. Also consider the finish: antique nickel, silver, brass, or copper should complement your other hardware.

• Lay out conchos on your leather before attaching to check spacing and balance.
• Mix sizes for visual interest, but keep the attachment method consistent for a clean look.

Trade-offs at a glance

• Screw-back: Removable and adjustable, but screws can loosen with vibration. Requires a clean hole. Best for projects where you want to change the look or need to replace a damaged concho.
• Rivet: Permanent and low-profile, but installation is more involved and removal destroys the concho. Choose for heavy-duty gear that won't need design changes.
• Adhesive: No holes and easy to apply, but the bond can fail on curves or under flex. Use only for low-wear, flat decorative accents.

Product facts

• Pirate Concho: Antique nickel finish, screwback attachment, 1-1/2" (38 mm) x 1-3/16" (30 mm). The screwback design lets you remove or reposition the concho without damaging the leather, and the antique nickel finish hides scratches well on working gear.
• Printed Nubuk Leopard Vacquero Craft Cut: 3 oz. (1.2 mm) thickness, 8.5 in. x 11 in. size, chrome tan, black and brown leopard print. This lightweight, flexible leather is ideal for accent pieces where you might add small conchos, but its thinness means you should avoid heavy rivet conchos that could tear through.
• Suiza Side: 4 to 5 oz. (1.6 to 2.0 mm) thickness, average size 14 to 18 sq. ft., chrome tan. This medium-weight leather is sturdy enough for screw-back or rivet conchos on bags and straps, and the large side gives you plenty of material for multiple projects.

Which concho style should you choose?

Best for

• Crafters who want to swap concho designs or adjust placement without ruining the leather.
• Projects on medium to heavy leather (4 oz. and up) where screw-back or rivet conchos can be securely mounted.
• Decorative pieces on flat, rigid surfaces where adhesive conchos won't be stressed.

Not for

• High-vibration applications like motorcycle seats if you choose screw-back without thread locker.
• Thin, flexible leather (under 3 oz.) where rivet conchos may tear through.
• Curved or high-flex areas if you're considering adhesive conchos.

Match the concho attachment to how the piece will be used. Screw-backs give you flexibility, rivets give you permanence, and adhesive works only as a light-duty accent. When in doubt, test your chosen method on scrap leather first.