Hand Press Die Rivets: Sizing Tubular vs Solid Burrs
By Tandy Leather — Tandy Leather, Inc. | Published: 2026-11-02
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to size hand press die rivets for tubular and solid burr installations, set up your die correctly, and avoid common alignment mistakes.
Quick answer
Choose the die set that matches your rivet style and size: use the Hand Press Die Tubular Rivets adapter for tubular rivets, and the Hand Press Die Rivets & Burrs set for solid rivets and burrs in #9, #12/#14, or decorative sizes. Then align the die, test on scrap, and set with steady pressure.
Why tubular and solid burr rivets need different dies
Tubular rivets have a hollow barrel that rolls or flares during setting, while solid rivets and burrs rely on compression to clamp the leather. A die designed for one style won't correctly form the other, which can lead to loose hardware or damaged leather.
The Hand Press Die Tubular Rivets adapter is made specifically for tubular rivets, and the Hand Press Die Rivets & Burrs set covers solid rivets and burrs in several size families. Using the wrong die is a common reason rivets sit unevenly or fail to hold.
Match the die to your rivet size, not just the style
Even within solid rivets and burrs, size matters. The Rivets & Burrs die set is available for #9, #12/#14, and decorative rivets and burrs, so check your rivet packaging or measure the rivet head before ordering. A die that is too large can crush the rivet head; one that is too small may not seat the burr fully.
If you're unsure which size you have, test-fit a rivet in the die before setting it in leather. The rivet should sit centered and flush without forcing.
Step-by-step: setting rivets with a hand press die
- Identify your rivet type and size: Check whether your rivets are tubular or solid burr style, and note the size number (#9, #12/#14, or decorative). Match that to the correct die set: Tubular Rivets adapter for tubular, Rivets & Burrs set for solid. If the size isn't marked, measure the rivet head diameter and compare to the die opening before setting.
- Install the die in your hand press: Insert the die into the press according to your press instructions, making sure it seats fully and is centered. Tighten any retaining screw securely. A loose die can shift during pressing and damage the rivet or leather.
- Align the rivet and burr on scrap leather: Place a test rivet through two scrap pieces of the same thickness as your project, add the burr, and position the assembly under the die. Check that the die contacts the rivet head and burr evenly. If the die touches off-center, stop and reseat the die or adjust the rivet position.
- Press with steady, moderate force: Apply smooth pressure until the rivet sets. Avoid bouncing or over-pressing; let the die do the forming. For tubular rivets, the adapter will roll the barrel; for solid burrs, the die compresses the burr onto the rivet. Test on scrap first: if the leather dents or the rivet bends, you're using too much force or the wrong die size.
- Inspect the set and adjust if needed: Check that the rivet is tight and the burr is fully seated. If the rivet spins or the leather is loose, try a slightly firmer press or verify you're using the correct die size for that rivet. Consistent pressure matters more than maximum force; practice on scrap until you get a clean set.
Product facts
- Hand Press Die Rivets & Burrs: Hand Press Die Rivets & Burrs is available for #9 Rivets & Burrs, #12/#14 Rivets & Burrs, and Decorative Rivets & Burrs. You can match the die to your specific rivet size family instead of compromising on fit.
Hand Press Die Rivets & Burrs - Hand Press Die Tubular Rivets: Hand Press Die Tubular Rivets is an adapter that allows your hand press to set tubular rivets (sold separately). It lets you use one hand press for tubular rivets without buying a separate machine.
Hand Press Die Tubular Rivets
