A leather keychain is a great little project if you’re getting started with leatherworking. It’s useful, doesn’t require a lot of leather, and gives you a chance to practice a few basic skills like cutting, punching and setting rivets.
In this tutorial, I’ll show you how to make a simple leather keychain using a few basic tools and supplies.
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Supplies Needed
You don’t need a huge collection of tools to make a leather keychain. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.
- Leather: Choose a piece of leather around 4-5 oz in weight. This provides a good balance of sturdiness and ease of cutting.
- Cutting tools: A rotary cutter or utility knife and a cutting mat.
- Ruler: A metal ruler or straight edge helps you make clean, straight cuts.
- Hole punch: Choose a hole punch that matches the size of your rivet. Some rivet kits include a punch, such as the one linked below.
- Key ring: A metal key ring or split ring.
- Rivets and setter: You’ll need a rivet and the appropriate setter to secure the leather around the key ring.
- Mallet: Used to set the rivet.
I’ve linked some of the tools and supplies below. These are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through one of them, at no extra cost to you.
Tools and supplies I use
Rivets, setter and hole punch kit
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Designing Your Keychain
Start by deciding on the size and shape of your keychain. A simple strip measuring ⅝ inch wide by 8 inches long works well for this project. It leaves enough room for the key ring and a little space for a personalized touch.
2. Cutting the Leather
- Measure and mark: Use your ruler to measure and mark a strip of leather measuring ⅝ inch wide by 8 inches long.
- Cut: Place the leather on your cutting mat. Using a rotary cutter or utility knife and ruler as a guide, carefully cut out the strip. Aim for straight, even edges.
3. Punching Holes
- Position the leather: Insert the strip through the key ring and fold it in half, wrong sides together.
- Punch the hole: Hold the two layers of leather together and punch a hole through both layers, centered about 3 inches from the tips of the leather. Place a scrap piece of leather between your work and the cutting mat to protect the mat while punching.
4. Attaching the Key Ring
- Insert the rivet: With the leather still folded around the key ring, align the holes and insert the rivet post and cap.
- Set the rivet: Use the appropriate rivet setter and mallet to secure the rivet. Make sure it’s firmly set so the leather stays together.
5. Adding Personal Touches
Now that your basic keychain is assembled, consider adding some personal touches:
- Stamping: Use leather stamps to emboss initials, a name, or a decorative pattern onto the leather.
- Painting: Add some color accents with leather paint, if desired.
- Cutting: For an extra decorative touch, consider cutting the ends on an angle.
That’s it! You’ve made your own leather keychain.
Tips for Success
- Practice on scraps: If you’re new to leatherworking, practise cutting and punching on scrap leather before working on your finished piece.
- Take your time: Careful measuring and punching will help your keychain turn out neatly.
- Keep your tools sharp: Sharp cutting tools make cleaner cuts and are easier to control.
- Experiment with designs: Try different leather colours, decorative stamps or angled ends to make each keychain your own.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of leather is best for keychains?
Leather around 4-5 oz in weight works well because it’s sturdy enough for everyday use while still being easy to cut and work with.
Can I use synthetic leather for this project?
You can, but genuine leather is a good choice for a keychain that’s made to handle everyday use and develop character over time.
How can I make sure my cuts are straight?
Use a sharp rotary cutter or utility knife alongside a metal ruler. A cutting mat will protect your work surface and give you a stable area to cut.
FAQs
Q: What type of leather is best for keychains? A: Leather around 4-5 oz in weight is ideal for keychains due to its balance of sturdiness and ease of cutting, but if you are just starting out, use what you have!
Q: Can I use synthetic leather for this project? A: While synthetic leather can be used, genuine leather is recommended for its durability and traditional appeal.
Q: How can I ensure my cuts are straight? A: Use a sharp rotary cutter or utility knife along with a metal ruler for guided, precise cuts.
Making a leather keychain is a simple way to get started with leatherworking and learn a few useful skills along the way. Once you’ve made one, you can experiment with different colours, shapes and stamped designs.
The best part is that you end up with something practical that you made yourself. Happy crafting!
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