List of Tools and Accessories to Make a Leather Belt at Home
This is a common question among people who want to start making leather belts at home. This list is aimed more at beginners who want to have the essentials. We have also included practical tools that are not mandatory to start, and these will be marked as "optional".
The Leather
For the leather, we recommend starting with vegetable-tanned leather with a minimum thickness of 3.0 mm to ensure a durable belt.
You will find straps already cut on the website, but it is also possible to get a whole hide and cut it yourself if you have many models to make.
We stop at a width of 4 cm, but we can make custom cuts. For example, if you need a 10 cm strap for a large belt, it is possible.
Measuring and Marking Tools
Ruler: You will need to mark points to attach the buckle and make the small holes to close the belt.
Silver pencil: In addition to the ruler, to mark reference points on the leather.
Templates (optional): There are templates adapted to different belt widths to perfectly place the holes. It’s not essential, but if you have many belts to make, it will make your work easier.
Line creaser, slicker or compass (optional): To make a decorative line along the belt edge or mark your stitching line if you want to sew the belt.
Cutting Tools
Cutter: We recommend using a rotary cutter for cutting loops, but you can also use a classic cutter, provided it is sturdy enough.
Strap cutter (optional): If you have purchased pre-cut straps, this tool is unnecessary. However, if you have a whole hide, it is essential for cutting regular straps.
Punching Tools
Round punch or revolving punch pliers: To make holes for Chicago screws in the case of a no-stitch belt and adjustment holes at the end of the belt to close it.
Mallet: Use a wooden or polymer mallet to avoid damaging your punches during strikes.
Cutting and punching mat: To prevent damage to the blades of your cutting and punching tools.
Oblong punch (optional): It creates the oval hole for the buckle’s prong, allowing it to move freely. Initially, you can make this shape using a round punch and a cutter.
End punch or shaping iron (optional): It helps create a perfect pointed or rounded shape at the belt’s end. Alternatively, you can make simpler shapes with a cutter or similar shapes with some patience and skill.
Edge Finishing Tools
Edge beveler: Leather edges can be uncomfortable against the skin because they form a sharp right angle. The edge beveler rounds these angles for more comfort.
Abrasive paper: Used to sand the edges for a smoother finish.
Toko cream, beeswax, or edge dye: These products help smooth the leather fibers. While you can leave edges raw, they will look less attractive over time.
Burnisher: Used to polish the edge after applying the products mentioned above.
Edge dye applicator (optional): Only if you plan to dye your edges with edge dye.
Accessories
Belt buckle: this is an obvious one, but you need a buckle.
Chicago screws: for no-stitch belts only, to attach the buckle and the loop.
Loops: You can make it yourself with leather or use a metallic loop.
Staples (optional): if you make the loop in leather, you can use a staple to keep it closed.
Sewing tools (optional):
This section is for those who want to attach the buckle using stitches or even add decorative stitching to the entire belt. We invite you to read our article on tools for beginners in hand sewing by clicking here.
We also created a tutorial on saddle stitching, which you can find by clicking here.
Now that you’re equipped, you need to learn how to assemble the belt. A tutorial on making leather belts is in preparation and will be the next publication on the blog. You can subscribe to our newsletter to receive the tutorial.