How to Use Chroma Mini D-Rings and Rivets in Bag Making

By Your Sewful Therapy is in Session... – Sewful Therapy | Published: 2026-10-30

Category: How-to Guides

Learn how to attach Chroma mini D-rings and rivets to bags for straps, accessories, and more. Step-by-step guide with common mistakes to avoid.

Quick Answer

Attach Chroma mini D-rings and rivets to your bag by choosing the right spot, marking it, punching a hole, and setting the rivet with a hammer and anvil. This hardware adds functional connections for straps and accessories without sewing.

Why Use Mini D-Rings and Rivets?

Mini D-rings are a quick way to add a connection point to your bag, especially if you forgot to sew in a connector before assembling. Rivets let you attach the D-ring securely without stitching, which is handy for adding features to finished bags or for making adjustments on the fly.

The Chroma Mini D-Rings + Rivets pack includes five sets, so you can experiment with placement or use them on multiple projects. They come in metal finishes like brushed antique, gunmetal, and matte rose, so you can match your hardware to your bag's style.

Choosing the Right Placement

Where you place the D-ring matters. For a crossbody strap, attach one D-ring on each side of the bag to balance the weight. For a hand sanitizer holder or sunglasses strap, place it near the top edge where it's easy to reach. If you're adding a pom pom or other accessory, position it where it will hang nicely without interfering with the bag's opening.

Think about what you'll attach. A D-ring on the side of a clutch can turn it into a crossbody, but you'll need to make sure the rivet goes through a sturdy part of the bag, like a reinforced seam or a layer of interfacing.

Limitations to Keep in Mind

Mini D-rings are small, so they're best for lightweight items like sunglasses, hand sanitizer, or small accessories. They may not be strong enough for heavy loads or for a strap that will carry a lot of weight. For heavy-duty use, consider a larger D-ring or a sturdier attachment method.

Rivets are permanent once set, so you can't easily reposition them. Take your time with placement and practice on a scrap piece of fabric if you're new to riveting.

Step-by-Step: Attaching Chroma Mini D-Rings and Rivets

Mark the Placement: Decide where you want the D-ring. Use a fabric marker or chalk to mark the exact spot on the bag, making sure it's on a sturdy part of the fabric, like a seam or a reinforced area. Double-check the placement by holding the D-ring up to the mark. Mistake: Placing the D-ring on thin fabric without reinforcement can cause the rivet to pull through. Check that the area is sturdy before proceeding.
Punch a Hole: Use a hole punch or an awl to make a small hole through the fabric at your mark. The hole should be just big enough for the rivet post to fit through, not larger. If your fabric is thick, you may need to punch from both sides or use a rotary punch. Mistake: Making the hole too large can loosen the rivet. Use a punch that matches the rivet post size.
Insert the Rivet: Push the rivet post through the hole from the outside of the bag, so the head of the rivet is on the outside. Slide the D-ring onto the post, then place the cap of the rivet over the post on the inside of the bag. Mistake: Forgetting to slide the D-ring onto the post before setting the rivet. Always double-check the order.
Set the Rivet: Place the rivet on a hard, flat surface (like an anvil or a metal block) with the cap side down. Use a hammer to hit the rivet post until it flares and secures the cap. Give it a few firm taps, then check that the D-ring moves freely. Mistake: Not using a hard surface can bend the rivet or damage your table. Always use an anvil or a scrap piece of metal.
Test the Attachment: Give the D-ring a gentle tug to make sure it's secure. If it feels loose, you may need to set the rivet again with a few more taps. If it's still loose, the rivet may be too small for your fabric, and you might need a larger size. Mistake: A loose rivet can fail under weight. Always test before using the bag.

Product Facts

Chroma: Mini D-Rings + Rivets (Pack of 5): The Chroma Mini D-Rings + Rivets pack includes five sets and comes in metal finishes like brushed antique, gunmetal, and matte rose. You get enough hardware for multiple projects or a pair of D-rings for a crossbody strap, and you can match the finish to your bag's existing hardware.
Chroma: Mini D-Rings + Rivets (Pack of 5)