1. Shortening Armor Belts
Often standard belts are too long. Shortening is simple, but needs to be done neatly to prevent fraying.
Measure: Wear the armor and determine the right length. Keep in mind that leather under tension can stretch a bit; it's better to cut it a little too long than too short.
Cut: Use a sharp utility knife or leather scissors. Always cut on a cutting mat.
Shape the point: A "tongue" (the point of the belt) should be cut neatly. Use a template or fold the leather in half and cut a nice curve.
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Edges: Use an edge beveler to round off the sharp edges of the cut surface.
Sealing: Treat the cut edge with leather edge dressing or a bit of beeswax and rub it smooth with a piece of canvas or wood. This prevents the leather from fraying.
Punch holes: Use a hole punch to make new holes. Make sure the hole is the same distance from the sides as the original holes for a tight result.
2. Attaching Armor Belts
There are two common ways to attach belts to your armor: rivets and laces.
Method A: Rivets (Permanent)
This is the most robust method.
Position: Determine where the belt should go. Mark the holes on the armor.
Drill: Drill holes with a metal drill bit that match exactly the diameter of your rivet.
Attach: Insert the rivet through the belt and the hole in the steel.
Rivet: Place the washer (rosette) over the rivet. Use a rivet setter (a metal tube) to press the belt and ring firmly onto the steel. Then strike the rivet with a hammer until it deforms and holds everything in place.
Method B: Laces (Flexible)
Historically, many belts were secured with laces (points). This is ideal for components you want to swap out frequently.
Holes: Make sure there are two holes in both the leather and the armor (often in a "V" shape or parallel).
Lacing: Pull a strong leather lace through the holes and tie it securely on the inside of the armor. Preferably use waxed leather for the laces; it stays supple and breaks less easily.
3. Workshop Checklist
[ ] Hole punch (in various sizes).
[ ] Utility knife with fresh blades.
[ ] Rivets, washers, and rivet setter.
[ ] Edge beveler (optional, for professional finishing).
[ ] Leather laces (for flexible connections).
Expert tip: When you rivet belts to your armor, always choose rivets with a flat head on the inside (the side against your body). This prevents the rivets from rubbing on your clothing or gambeson, or worse, pricking your skin. You can optionally place an extra piece of soft leather behind the rivet on the inside for extra comfort.
