Hole Punch

These traditional leather hole punches are workshop staples used for creating clean round holes in leather for belts, straps, watch bands, dog collars, bag making, hardware installation, lace work and general leathercraft. These steel punches can also be used on materials such as paper, board, denim, canvas, felt, foam, rubber etc.

The punches follow the original factory numbering system (00, 0, 1, 2, etc.) instead of the actual hole diameter. Since this numbering system can be confusing for most users, we have measured and correlated the factory punch size, actual punch diameter, and the typical hole produced in leather to make size selection easier.

Size Reference

*Measured in 1.7–1.8mm leather

Understanding Hole Sizes

One thing that often surprises users is that the final hole produced in leather is usually larger than the punch diameter itself.

Unlike paper punches or drill bits, leather punches have a tapered cutting geometry. As the punch travels deeper into the leather, the widening taper gradually enlarges the opening.

This effect is most noticeable in smaller sizes.

For example:

• A 1mm punch may produce a hole close to 2mm
• A 1.5mm punch may produce a hole around 3mm

As the punch size increases, this difference gradually reduces. The final hole size will also vary depending on:

• Leather thickness
• Leather temper (soft / firm)
• Veg tan vs chrome tan
• Penetration depth
• Compression during striking

Thicker leather generally results in larger final holes, as more of the tapered body enters the leather.

The “Typical Hole Produced” values should therefore be treated as practical reference values and not absolute dimensions.

Hammer Recommendations

For punches up to Hole Punch No. 7, a leather hammer can generally be recommended. Beyond this point, the larger sizes begin requiring considerably more force and leather hammers may struggle to drive them efficiently.

For punches up to Hole Punch No. 18, a nylon hammer is generally recommended. For sizes a heavier steel hammer might be required.

Hole Punch No. 28 and No. 30 are serious workshop tools intended for producing large openings and require substantial striking force and a fair bit of muscle power, especially in thicker leather.

Using metal hammers / steel hammers with these punches will result in mushrooming of the striking end over time.

Material & Finish

Made from steel with a dark protective finish intended to improve durability in workshop use. Please note that this finish is rust-resistant, not rust-proof.

Sharpening

All punches are supplied sharpened to factory standards only.

Additional sharpening and edge refinement can further improve penetration and cutting dynamics depending on user preference.

Workshop Grade Tools: These are workshop tools, not objects of art. Minor tooling marks, finish variations, scratches, cosmetic blemishes and handling marks should be considered normal and do not affect function.

Storage & Care

Store in a dry, low humidity environment and avoid prolonged exposure to moisture.

For long term storage, wiping the tool after use and applying a light coat of oil is recommended.

Despite the protective finish, improper storage can still result in oxidation/rusting over time.