When I first started tackling heavy-duty canvas and leather projects, I quickly realized my old setting methods weren’t going to cut it. A reliable rivet machine is the key to creating clean, professional, and incredibly durable fastenings. After testing numerous models—from heavy-duty hand press stations to precise handheld rivet guns—I compiled this detailed guide to the best rivet machine options currently available. Whether you’re setting blind rivets for construction or installing decorative snaps on a leather bag, we’ve got a tested option here that will significantly boost your productivity and the quality of your work.
Contents
- Snap Button Fastener, Rivet, Eyelet, Grommet Hand Press Machine with Setting Dies All in One Set
- WETOLS Pop Rivet Gun Kit with 200 Blind Rivets, Upgraded Manual Single Hand Riveter with 4 Tool-Free Interchangeable Rivet Heads and 4 Drill Bits, Pop Rivet Tool Kit with Sturdy BMC Carrying Case
- QWORK – Hand Press Heavy Duty Eyelet Grommet Machine Punch Tool Kit with 3 Dies and 1500 Pcs Silver Grommets
- Pearl Handmade Setting Machine, Beads Rivet Fixing Machine with 5 Sizes of Round Pearl Beads Rivet Studs for Hats/Shoes/Clothes/Bags/Skirts
- Leather Hand Press Machine kit for Setting Rivets, Eyelets and snap Buttons
- Heavy Duty Grommet Tool Kit with 1/2 Inch Die and 300 Sets of 12MM Grommets,Handheld Manual Eyelet Tool Rivet Press Punch Pliers for Leather Canvas Fabric
- Hand Press Machine All in One Set for Install Rivets, Eyelets, Grommets, Snaps and Fabric Cover Buttons
- Comparing the Best Rivet Machine Types: Practical Buying Advice
- Final Verdict: Our Top Recommendations
- Best Rivet Machine FAQ
- What is the difference between a hand press machine and a pop rivet gun?
- Can I use a rivet machine on thick leather or denim?
- Are all rivet machines compatible with all types of rivets?
- What are the main benefits of using a magnetic mold design?
- Is an “all-in-one” hand press set worth the investment?
- Do I need to pre-punch holes before using my hand press machine?
Snap Button Fastener, Rivet, Eyelet, Grommet Hand Press Machine with Setting Dies All in One Set
This hand press machine is a dream come true for the versatile crafter. It’s an incredibly durable bench-mounted hand press designed to handle a multitude of fasteners, making it suitable for both hobbyists and small professional workshops. The strength of this machine means you get consistent, tight settings every time, whether you’re working with thin fabric or thicker leather. The sheer number of included dies for snaps, rivets, and grommets makes this kit an excellent value proposition right out of the box, saving you the hassle of buying essential accessories separately.
Key features that stand out:
– Versatile functionality: Sets rivets, eyelets, grommets, and snap buttons.
– Durable, high-quality construction built for professional use.
– Comes with 15 different setting dies (for snaps, rivets, and grommets) plus two hole punchers.
Pros:
– Excellent stability due to its heavy bench-mount design.
– Highly consistent setting pressure compared to manual tools.
– Wide variety of dies included for diverse projects.
Cons:
– You must purchase the actual fasteners (rivets, snaps, grommets) separately.
Best for: Multi-craft users and professional leather workers needing a fixed, durable setting station.
Expert Opinion: This comprehensive machine handles high volume work easily. While you have to supply your own fasteners, the quality and variety of the included setting dies justify the initial investment.
WETOLS Pop Rivet Gun Kit with 200 Blind Rivets, Upgraded Manual Single Hand Riveter with 4 Tool-Free Interchangeable Rivet Heads and 4 Drill Bits, Pop Rivet Tool Kit with Sturdy BMC Carrying Case
When we talk about the best rivet machine for structural or automotive work, a reliable pop rivet gun like the WETOLS kit is essential. This upgraded manual riveter is designed for easy, single-hand operation, making tight fixes much less exhausting. The design incorporates an ergonomic, double-curved handle and a durable aluminum alloy body, ensuring longevity even under frequent, heavy use. It’s a complete kit that even includes 200 aluminum rivets and the necessary drill bits, meaning you can jump straight into construction or repair work immediately.
Key features that stand out:
– Tool-free interchangeable heads for quick size changes (4 sizes included).
– High-quality aluminum alloy body and reinforced carbon steel handle.
– Comes complete with 200 aluminum rivets and 4 matching twist drills.
Pros:
– User-friendly sleeve design allows for fast maintenance and head swapping.
– Capable of setting aluminum, steel, and stainless steel blind rivets.
– Included carrying case keeps all components organized.
Cons:
– Operating with steel rivets may require significant two-hand force.
Best for: Automotive repairs, construction, HVAC, and household structural fixes.
Expert Opinion: The inclusion of tool-free interchangeable heads is a major time-saver. This is one of the most practical and durable handheld pop rivet gun kits I’ve used for blind riveting applications.
QWORK – Hand Press Heavy Duty Eyelet Grommet Machine Punch Tool Kit with 3 Dies and 1500 Pcs Silver Grommets
If your primary focus is working with banners, signs, canvas, or heavy fabrics, the QWORK heavy duty machine provides exceptional power and speed. While it excels at eyelets and grommets, its design allows it to function effectively as a hand press rivet machine for many applications. One of its standout features is the self-piercing capability on thinner materials, which dramatically speeds up production by eliminating the need for a separate hole punch step. It’s heavy enough to be stable on a tabletop but can also be bolted down for maximum leverage.
Key features that stand out:
– Heavy duty cast iron construction for reliable performance.
– Includes three popular die sizes: 1/4″, 3/8″, and 1/2″ (#0, #2, #4).
– Self-piercing function works well on thin, flexible materials.
Pros:
– Comes with a massive supply of 1500 silver grommets.
– Excellent leverage makes setting large grommets effortless.
– Versatile function as a punch, eyelet, or rivet setter.
Cons:
– Thicker materials like leather still require pre-punched holes.
Best for: Sign makers, banner production, and commercial textile applications.
Expert Opinion: This machine is built to handle volume. The lever mechanism is incredibly smooth, offering much better leverage than pliers or small hand setting tools, making it a powerful contender in the category of heavy duty hand press rivet machines.
Pearl Handmade Setting Machine, Beads Rivet Fixing Machine with 5 Sizes of Round Pearl Beads Rivet Studs for Hats/Shoes/Clothes/Bags/Skirts
This unique machine addresses the specific niche of decorative fastening. If you frequently customize clothes, accessories, or craft projects with pearls and studs, this pearl rivet fixing machine is a necessity. It is designed for precise, secure, and rapid application of decorative beads and pearl rivets onto fabric. The durable construction ensures the decorative elements are fixed firmly—you won’t have to worry about them washing off in the laundry. It dramatically improves efficiency over gluing or hand-sewing individual beads.
Key features that stand out:
– Specializes in the fast and accurate setting of decorative pearls/beads.
– Includes five different screw head sizes (4mm to 10mm).
– Comes with 1000 hand nails and a box of 5 sizes of white round pearls.
Pros:
– Ensures pearls are securely fastened for long-term wear.
– Very easy to position accurately, even on delicate fabric.
– Excellent for artistic and customized fashion designs.
Cons:
– Only designed for decorative pearl setting, not standard structural rivets.
Best for: Fashion designers, costumers, crafters specializing in embellished clothing.
Expert Opinion: For anyone dealing with high-end embellishment, this is a non-negotiable tool. It provides a clean, professional finish that’s impossible to replicate with simple hand setting or glue.
Leather Hand Press Machine kit for Setting Rivets, Eyelets and snap Buttons
Designed specifically with the leather artisan in mind, this hand press machine kit focuses on the fasteners most commonly used in belt-making, bag construction, and saddlery. It provides a sturdy press and a curated selection of dies for popular leather fasteners, including both single and double-cap rivets. This focused approach eliminates unnecessary parts and ensures the included dies are the most useful sizes for typical leather thicknesses. The recommendation notes for specific hole punch sizes corresponding to the dies are incredibly helpful for achieving the cleanest installation.
Key features that stand out:
– Specialized kit optimized for leather craft applications.
– Includes a durable press machine and six specific die sets for rivets, eyelets, and snaps.
– Clear recommendations for matching hole punch sizes for professional results.
Pros:
– Dies included cover the most common leather rivet and snap sizes.
– Excellent stability for clean, deep setting into dense materials.
– Ideal for both professional workshops and dedicated hobbyists.
Cons:
– The necessary rivets, grommets, and snaps must be purchased separately.
Best for: Dedicated leather workers and small businesses producing leather goods.
Expert Opinion: If you work primarily with leather, having a specialized hand press ensures compatibility and reliability. This machine makes setting double cap rivets quick and guarantees a uniform finish across your products.
Heavy Duty Grommet Tool Kit with 1/2 Inch Die and 300 Sets of 12MM Grommets,Handheld Manual Eyelet Tool Rivet Press Punch Pliers for Leather Canvas Fabric
Unlike the bench-mounted hand presses, this tool offers the convenience of a handheld rivet press in a sturdy pliers format. Its main selling point is the unique magnetic mold design which simplifies the alignment process. You simply place the grommet pieces into the magnetic dies, align the fabric, and squeeze—it’s that fast. This model is exceptionally well-suited for repairs or applications where you need portability, as you don’t need a dedicated workspace.
Key features that stand out:
– Handheld pliers design provides portability and ease of use.
– Unique magnetic die design ensures easy grommet alignment and quick fastening.
– Simplifies the process by eliminating the need for pre-punching holes in most materials.
Pros:
– Ergonomic design reduces hand fatigue during use.
– Great value, including the tool, die, and 300 sets of grommets.
– Highly portable for on-site repairs (e.g., tents, signs).
Cons:
– Limited to 1/2 inch (12mm) grommets, limiting its versatility compared to press machines.
Best for: On-site repair work, tent/tarp fixes, and portable crafting needs.
Expert Opinion: If you prefer a faster, more flexible solution than a bench press, these pliers are fantastic. The magnetic molds genuinely improve efficiency and the ability to fasten without pre-punching is a huge time saver.
Hand Press Machine All in One Set for Install Rivets, Eyelets, Grommets, Snaps and Fabric Cover Buttons
This machine is perhaps the most comprehensive all-in-one rivet machine package on our list, going beyond standard fasteners to include a die set for fabric covered buttons. Like the other hand press models, it provides powerful leverage for permanent setting, making it perfect for custom garment creation, upholstery, and detailed craftwork. It comes with enough dies to handle the most popular sizes of snaps, rivets, and grommets, making it an incredible foundation tool for a new workshop.
Key features that stand out:
– Truly comprehensive set including dies for fabric covered buttons (12.7 mm).
– Includes dies for 4 snap sizes, 2 rivet sizes, and 3 grommet sizes.
– Durable construction suitable for regular professional or amateur use.
Pros:
– One of the few sets that includes fabric cover button capabilities.
– Excellent long-lasting quality for various materials (leather, cardboard, fabric).
– Great starting point for workshops that handle diverse projects.
Cons:
– The actual fasteners (rivets, snaps, grommets) are not included in the purchase.
Best for: Designers and makers needing maximum flexibility in fastening types, including custom fabric buttons.
Expert Opinion: The fabric cover button die sets this kit apart. If your projects involve detailed garment work or custom upholstery, this flexibility makes it an extremely valuable tool.
Comparing the Best Rivet Machine Types: Practical Buying Advice
Choosing the right best rivet machine depends entirely on the material you’re fastening and the type of fastener you need. Here are some key distinctions to keep in mind:
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Bench Press Machines (Products 1, 3, 5, 7): These offer maximum leverage and consistency. They are essential for high-volume or heavy-duty materials like thick leather, canvas, or layered fabrics. If your work involves setting decorative snaps or large grommets, the stability of a bench-mounted hand press machine is unmatched. They are slower for structural blind riveting but vastly superior for clean aesthetic settings.
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Handheld Pliers/Manual Rivet Guns (Products 2, 6): These prioritize portability and specialized use. The WETOLS Pop Rivet Gun (Product 2) is specifically for blind riveting—the kind of structural work where you only have access to one side of the material. The heavy-duty pliers (Product 6) are perfect for on-site eyelet repairs and offer fast, low-effort fastening for canvas and fabric.
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Specialized Riveting (Product 4): If your primary goal is decoration, the specialized Pearl Setting Machine is the way to go. Standard hand presses and pop rivet guns are incapable of securely setting decorative beads, emphasizing that sometimes the best rivet machine is highly niche.
If you’re a leatherworker, Product 5 offers the most practical selection of dies. If you need maximum versatility and button-making capability, Product 7 is your winner. For construction and repair, the WETOLS Pop Rivet Gun (Product 2) is the undisputed champion for blind rivets.
Final Verdict: Our Top Recommendations
When evaluating the best rivet machine options, we recommend categorizing based on intended use:
For the Versatile Crafter (Snaps, Grommets, Rivets): Go with the Snap Button Fastener, Rivet, Eyelet, Grommet Hand Press Machine with Setting Dies All in One Set (Product 1). It provides robust construction and the widest, most practical array of dies for general workshop use.
For Professional Structural Work (Blind Rivets): The clear winner is the WETOLS Pop Rivet Gun Kit (Product 2). Its durable design, tool-free head changes, and complete kit inclusion make it the most reliable manual blind riveter available.
For High-Volume Canvas/Signage (Grommets): We highly recommend the QWORK – Hand Press Heavy Duty Eyelet Grommet Machine (Product 3) due to its huge supply of grommets and self-piercing capability on lighter materials.
Best Rivet Machine FAQ
What is the difference between a hand press machine and a pop rivet gun?
A hand press machine (or setter) uses dies to compress and flatten decorative or functional fasteners like snaps, eyelets, or double-cap rivets onto materials like leather or fabric. The fastener is usually visible on both sides. A pop rivet gun (or blind riveter) is used to install structural fasteners (blind rivets) typically made of metal, often in construction or automotive work where access is limited to only one side of the material.
Can I use a rivet machine on thick leather or denim?
Absolutely. One of the main reasons to invest in a quality rivet machine is its ability to handle dense materials. Hand press machines (like Products 1, 5, or 7) provide the necessary leverage and consistent pressure to pierce and compress rivets securely through multiple layers of thick leather, denim, or canvas.
Are all rivet machines compatible with all types of rivets?
No, compatibility is based on the machine type and the die size. Pop rivet guns are designed only for blind rivets. Hand press machines require specific, interchangeable die sets (molds) that match the diameter and type (single cap, double cap, tubular, etc.) of the rivet or snap you are installing.
What are the main benefits of using a magnetic mold design?
Featured in tools like the Heavy Duty Grommet Tool Kit (Product 6), the magnetic mold design simplifies the process by holding the small fastener pieces (like the two parts of a grommet) in place while you position the material. This ensures perfect alignment and significantly reduces frustration and setting errors, especially with repetitive tasks.
Is an “all-in-one” hand press set worth the investment?
For beginners or makers who tackle varied projects (from belts to banners), an all-in-one set (like Products 1 or 7) provides excellent value. It gives you immediate access to dies for snaps, grommets, and rivets without having to source them individually, making it a great entry point into using a dedicated hand press rivet machine.
Do I need to pre-punch holes before using my hand press machine?
For most structural or aesthetic rivets and snaps, yes, pre-punching the hole is generally recommended, especially on thick or stiff materials like heavy leather. While some heavy-duty grommet machines (like Product 3) claim self-piercing capabilities on thin materials, pre-punching ensures the cleanest hole and the strongest, most professional set finish.
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