leather hole punch tool
Over the years I’ve shared a few DIY projects and alteration guides to help ensure a well-fitting wardrobe, particularly for a petite frame. And one tool that’s come in handy time and time again on a variety of accessories is my trusty leather puncher (can also find it at most major craft stores). For under $15, this gadget pays for itself by saving even just one trip to the cobbler.
I’ve featured it a few times already over the years, but wanted to highlight some alternate uses for it in addition to belts! I also wanted to quickly show how I’d style this fancier dress more casually!
1. Belt Strap
To punch clean-cut circular holes in a belt so it can fit tighter or looser. This is the classic use and why I originally bought mine because I struggled to find belts that fit. Simply measure where you want the new hole to be, mark it with a pencil on the back side of the belt, rotate the tool head to the correct sized hole and punch!
When done, I use a toothpick or sharp tool to remove the circular leather cutout piece from the tool spoke so that it won’t affect your next punch. FYI, you will need to use both hands and exert some strength to really punch, especially if the leather belt is on the thicker side.
Also see: Ways to knot the long tail of your belt so it’s not flapping
2. Leather Handbag Straps
I’ve used my puncher a few times on crossbody straps where even the last hole is still too long on a petite frame!
Also see: What to do with the long strap tail on a crossbody bag
3. Shoe Ankle Straps & Slingback Straps
Ankle strap or slingback shoes too tight? Or so loose that they keep sliding off? The smallest hole setting on my leather puncher tool is a tad bigger than the holes on my shoe straps, but it still works!
4. Leather Watch Strap
Like with my shoe straps, the smallest hole on my puncher tool is a little bigger than my watch strap holes, but it still works and keeps the prong in place. If use on a watch strap is a priority, make sure to find a puncher that has a tiny hole option in the rotary head.
Do you have any suggestions on how to make the associated slit that is next to the hole ?
I need to get one of these. Wow!
Jean, this is great! Would you recommend using this hole-puncher for the Hermes reversible 24mm belt? They only allow two additional punches but it was still too long for me for high waisted..
Thanks!
Hi Jasmine, you can use it, but since its such a pricey belt, definitely practice using the puncher on maybe a cheaper belt with the same leather thickness so you get a feel for how to use the tool! And have someone help you hold the belt when you punch so it doesn’t shift or slide.
So so handy! I need to get one of these- I’d love to add my own holes in some belts and strappy shoes.
xoxo A
Thanks for this! This is the tool I didn’t realize I needed! There are so many bags that I have not purchased because of straps that are not petite friendly, and not wanting to “knot” them. You are the best petite blogger out there!! I have made several great purchases since finding you. Keep the content coming!! xoxo