Putting rivets on jeans involves creating a hole in the fabric, inserting the rivet post and cap, and then joining them together using a setting tool and a hammer or press. This process reinforces stress points like pocket corners.
Tools Needed for Setting Jeans Rivets
To successfully add or replace rivets on your jeans, you will need a few key tools:
- Jeans Rivets: These typically come in two parts: a post (or male part) and a cap (or female part).
- Hole Punch: To create the necessary hole in the denim. A sharp awl can also work.
- Riveting Tool/Setter: This tool is specifically designed to hold the rivet cap and post in place while you strike it. Often includes a concave end to protect the cap's dome.
- Hammer: A sturdy hammer to strike the setter.
- Anvil or Hard Surface: A solid base is crucial for setting the rivet properly.
- Scrap Fabric (like denim): As shown in the reference video, placing the anvil or hard surface on scraps of denim can protect your table or workbench from damage.
Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Jeans Rivets
Follow these steps to securely attach rivets to your jeans:
- Mark the Spot: Decide exactly where you want to place the rivet. Mark the spot with chalk or a fabric pen.
- Punch the Hole: Using your hole punch or awl, create a small, clean hole at the marked spot. The hole should be just large enough for the rivet post to pass through.
- Prepare Your Workstation: Place your anvil or hard surface on a sturdy table or workbench. As recommended in the reference ([3:28 - 7:59]), place "Face down on my Anvil. And I'm actually going to put this anvil on a couple scraps of denim. So that I don't damage. My. Table" This protects your underlying surface.
- Insert the Rivet Post: Push the rivet post through the hole from the wrong side (inside) of the fabric.
- Place the Rivet Cap: Put the jeans right side up. Place the rivet cap onto the protruding post on the right side (outside) of the fabric.
- Position the Setter: Place the appropriate end of your riveting tool or setter onto the rivet cap. Make sure the tool is seated correctly to avoid damaging the cap.
- Set the Rivet: Holding the setter firmly and straight, strike the other end of the setter with your hammer. Use firm, even blows. The force pushes the rivet post into the cap, crimping it and securing the rivet in place. You may need a few strikes to ensure it's tight.
- Check Your Work: Examine the rivet on both sides. It should be flat against the fabric and securely attached.
Properly set rivets should lay flat against the fabric and reinforce the area effectively.
