I took four bags over to Mary’s house and riveted all of them. It was super fun rivet party! I kept riveting every spot I could find on the Oxbow Tote! Mary had to stop me.
The part of the bag I wanted to rivet were the handles. I don’t think the bag is in danger of ripping apart, but I like to think a couple of rivets will help keep it in shape for a longer time.
I also took the opportunity to rivet the adjustable strap. I am never sure that the stitching I can do on my domestic machine will hold, so a rivet helps with strength.
I also think it makes the strap look more professional.
Mary just bought some rainbow hardware recently, which matched the hardware I used for the bag overall.
I also brought the Kit Supply Tote. That project has handles that are sewn to the outside of the bag and are not sewn into any seam. These types of handles always make me nervous. I am always afraid they will rip off. It is probably not sensible to think that, but I do.
I riveted the handles to the bag and feel much better about the handles now. I think they will stay put with the extra support.
I really like the shape and size of this bag. In addition to the handle construction issue, it has another construction issue. That is the thickness of the sides that make a pleat. I was able to sew it, but still worried about it ripping apart. The thickness meant that we used the rivets with the longer shaft.
I was amazed at how they clicked together (pressed together?) and then stayed put.
This bag is not made with any hardware, so I chose a chrome finish to go with the glitter handles.
I am now a fan of riveting the handles on the Enigma pouches. I brought the two most recent Enigmas to be riveted before they go off to their new homes.
I think that riveting the handles makes these bags able to handle more weight.
I tried to find other areas to rivet, but I had to admit it would be gratuitous riveting. 😉