Looking for a simple yet satisfying leatherworking project? Crafting your own leather key fob is a fantastic way to start. It requires minimal tools, uses very little material, and results in a practical and stylish accessory you can use every day.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through creating two types of key fobs using our free Leather Key Fob Template: a classic key chain and a belt loop key fob. Whether you’re just starting out in leather crafting or seeking a quick and rewarding project, follow these step-by-step instructions to create your personalized leather key fob. Let’s dive in!
Image: Essential tools for crafting your DIY leather key chain, laid out neatly on a workbench.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather these essential tools and materials. We’ve included links to our recommended products for your convenience.
For the Standard Leather Key Fob:
- Leather: Opt for 3-4 oz Vegetable Tan leather for its workability and beautiful finish. Oil Tan leather is also a great alternative for a softer feel. Explore Vegetable Tan Leather
- Leather Key Fob Template: Download our free template here. Free Leather Key Fob Template (PDF) Print it at “Actual Size” or 100% for accurate dimensions.
- Cutting Tool: A sharp knife or blade for precise leather cutting.
- Hole Punch: For creating clean holes for hardware attachment. Shop Leather Hole Punches
- 1” Split Ring: To attach your keys to the fob.
- Chicago Screws or Rivets: For securely fastening the leather fob. Browse Rivets
For the Belt Loop Leather Key Fob:
- Leather: As with the standard fob, 3-4 oz Vegetable Tan or Oil Tan leather works perfectly. Find Oil Tan Leather Options
- Leather Key Fob Template: Use the same free template as above. Download Template
- Cutting Tool: Knife or blade.
- Hole Punch: Leather hole punch.
- Swivel Snap (¾” Eye): For attaching the fob to a belt loop.
- Line 24 Snap Setter: To install the snaps securely. Explore Snap Setter Kits
- Line 24 Snaps: For the belt loop closure. Shop Line 24 Snaps
- 1” Split Ring (Optional): If you want to add a split ring in addition to the swivel snap.
Step-by-Step Guide: Regular Leather Key Fob
Let’s start by making the classic leather key fob.
- Print and Prepare Your Template: Download and print the leather key fob template. For durability, print it on thicker paper stock. This will make tracing and repeated use much easier.
Image: The printed leather key fob template, ready to be used for cutting and shaping the leather.
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Trace and Cut the Leather: Place the template onto your chosen leather piece. To maximize your leather, position the template close to the edges. Trace around the template using a knife, scratch awl, or pen.
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Cut Out the Fob Shape: Carefully cut along the traced lines with your knife. For straight lines, a ruler can be helpful.
Image: Tracing the leather key fob template onto a piece of leather in preparation for cutting.
- Refine the Edges: Take your time to cut the rounded edges smoothly. Practice on scrap leather to get comfortable with freehand curve cutting. Steady hands and slow, controlled movements are key.
Image: Cutting the curved edges of the leather key fob with a craft knife, demonstrating precision.
- Punch Hardware Holes: Use your hole punch to create holes at the marked spots on the template. Fold the leather in half to ensure the holes align perfectly.
Image: Punching holes in the leather key fob using a hole punch tool, aligning with template markings.
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Attach the Split Ring and Hardware: Fold the bottom of the leather fob and slide it through the 1” split ring. The ring should sit snugly within the curved cuts.
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Secure with Chicago Screw or Rivet: For this example, we’ll use a Chicago screw for easy assembly and adjustability. Align the holes, insert the barrel of the Chicago screw, and tighten it with the screw head using a screwdriver. For a permanent hold, add a touch of super glue to the screw threads before tightening. Alternatively, you can use rivets for a more traditional and permanent finish.
Image: Assembling the standard leather key fob by attaching the Chicago screw to secure the folded leather.
Congratulations! You’ve completed your first leather key fob!
Step-by-Step Guide: Belt Loop Leather Key Fob
Now, let’s create a belt loop key fob, perfect for keeping your keys secure and accessible on your belt.
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Cut the Leather: Using the longer template from your printed sheet, cut out the leather piece for the belt loop fob, following the same tracing and cutting steps as before.
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Punch Hardware Holes: Punch holes for the hardware as marked on the template.
Image: Cutting leather for the belt loop key fob, using the longer template from the set.
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Attach the Swivel Snap: Fold the leather and feed the ¾” eye of the swivel snap through the loop. The swivel snap should fit neatly into the curved sections of the leather.
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Set the Snaps: If you’re new to setting snaps, we highly recommend watching our YouTube video tutorial on setting snaps in leather.
Image: Preparing to set the snap on the belt loop key fob, aligning the leather and hardware.
- Attach the Snap Components: Fold the bottom of the keychain over the swivel hook, aligning the punched holes. Insert the eyelet of the snap from the back, through both holes. Place the stud over the eyelet post on top of the leather. Use your snap setter to hammer and secure the stud.
Image: Using a snap setter tool to securely fasten the snap components on the leather key fob.
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Set the Snap Cap: Insert the cap post through the top hole of the keychain, ensuring the cap is on the finished side of the leather. Place the socket over the cap post and use the snap setter with the concave anvil to hammer and secure the snap socket.
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Test Your Belt Loop Fob: Your snap should now close securely. Attach your keyring to the swivel snap, and you can now clip your keys to your belt loop, keeping them safe and accessible.
Image: The completed belt loop leather key fob, snapped shut and ready to attach to a belt.
Level Up Your Leather Key Fobs
Once you’ve mastered these basic key fobs, there are many ways to enhance their look and feel:
- Edge Beveling: Bevel the edges of the leather for a smoother, more refined finish.
- Stamping and Painting: Add personalized designs using leather stamps or paints.
- Hand Stitching: Hand stitch around the edges for a professional and decorative touch.
Image: Examples of finished leather key fobs with enhanced details like stamping and edge finishing.
However, even with simple construction, your leather key fob will develop a beautiful patina and softened edges with regular use, giving it a unique character over time.
With these fundamental leatherworking skills, you’re ready to explore more exciting projects like leather wallets or camera straps. The possibilities are endless!
Show Us Your Creations!
Did you make a leather key fob using our template? We’d love to see it! Tag us on social media with @theleatherguymn or #theleatherguymn, and we might feature your work!
