❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between snap fasteners and rivets?
Snap fasteners (press studs) are removable — they click open and closed, making them ideal for covers, clothing, and anything you need to take on and off. Rivets create a permanent, non-removable joint, making them stronger for structural applications like metal fabrication, automotive, and heavy-duty leather work.
Do I need special tools to install snap buttons?
Most of our snap kits come with a setting tool or pliers included. For basic press studs, you just need the included punch tool and a hammer. Our heavy-duty kits include adjustable snap pliers that make installation fast and consistent — no professional experience needed.
What size snap fastener do I need for boat canvas?
For marine canvas and boat covers, we recommend 15mm heavy-duty snaps with screw-in bases for maximum holding strength. Our Canvas Snaps Kit includes marine-grade stainless steel snaps with a setting tool, designed to resist saltwater corrosion and UV exposure.
What’s the difference between a pop rivet and a rivet nut (rivnut)?
A pop rivet (blind rivet) permanently joins two materials together — you insert it through a hole and pull the mandrel to expand it. A rivet nut (rivnut) installs into a single piece of material and creates a threaded hole, so you can screw a bolt in and out repeatedly. Rivnuts are ideal when you need a removable fastener in thin sheet metal.
Which rivet size should I use for sheet metal?
For light sheet metal (1–2mm), use 3.2mm or 4mm diameter rivets. For medium thickness (2–4mm), use 4.8mm rivets. For heavy-duty applications, use 5mm or 6.4mm stainless steel rivets. Our assortment kits include multiple sizes so you’re always covered.
Can I use these rivets for leather crafting?
Yes! We carry several rivet types specifically for leather: double-cap rivets for belts and bags, star rivets for decorative garment work, hollow rivets for lightweight leather, and Chicago screws for bookbinding and portfolios. All are easy to install with basic hand tools.
Are these fasteners rust-proof and suitable for outdoor use?
Our stainless steel (A2-70, 304) rivets and marine-grade snap fasteners are fully corrosion-resistant and suitable for outdoor, marine, and high-humidity environments. Aluminum rivets are also rust-resistant. For indoor or dry applications, zinc-plated steel options offer great value.
How many pieces do I need for a typical project?
For a single bag or belt repair: 10–20 rivets or snaps. For a boat cover: 40–80 snaps. For ongoing leather crafting: a 200+ piece assortment kit is best value. For automotive or construction work: our 860-piece rivet nut kits cover most professional jobs. We offer kits from 50 to 1250 pieces to match your project scale.
💡 Pro Tip: Not sure which fastener to choose? Check the product title — we label each kit with its primary use (canvas, leather, metal, automotive) to help you find the right fit fast.
