Caleb Foster
Rivets are a versatile fastening method, able to attach metal to metal or any other material. They can be decorative or functional and are composed of three parts: the head, the shaft, and the tail. Creating your own rivets from nails is a straightforward process that requires no special tools and can be used for a variety of projects, especially crafts. The process involves selecting the appropriate nail size and type, marking the placement, drilling a hole, and then shaping the nail into a rivet by cutting and forming a new head. The size of the drill bit is crucial, as it should create a snug fit for the nail, with the hole only slightly larger than the nail diameter. With the right technique, you can make strong and aesthetically pleasing rivets from common hardware store nails.
Characteristics and Values Table for Making a Rivet from a Nail
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Drill Bit Sizes | Should match the wire size for the rivet. For a snug fit, test the wire in a test hole in scrap metal. |
| Drill Bits | High-speed drill bits are preferable as they last longer. |
| Drilling Technique | Hold the flex shaft perpendicular to the metal. Avoid rotating the drill bit to prevent the hole from becoming larger. |
| Nail Choice | Avoid hardened nails like masonry nails. |
| Hole Size | Should be no larger than 2-3 thousandths of an inch bigger than the rivet for a sliding fit. |
| Nail Head | Can be used as the head for the rivet if the application is not decorative. Otherwise, cut it off and create a new head. |
| Nail Length | Cut the nail down, leaving 2-4mm protruding to dictate the size of the 'head'. |
| Joining Wood | Use a washer on the rear to spread the load and prevent the rivet from pulling through. |
| Creating a 'Head' | Hit around the edge of the nail lightly and repeatedly to form the 'head'. |
| Multi-Piece Assembly | Having multiple pieces of wood does not change the process. |
| Rivet Functionality | Rivets can be designed to allow pieces to move or hold pieces immobile. |
| Rivet Applications | Can be used to attach metal to metal or any other material. Can be decorative or blind (invisible). |
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What You'll Learn
Choosing the right nail
When choosing a nail to make a rivet, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, the size of the nail is important. The nail should be long enough to protrude about 2-4mm from the material you are joining. This protruding portion will be used to create the 'head' of the rivet, so ensure the length is appropriate for your intended use.
The diameter of the nail is also crucial. You will need a drill bit that matches the size of the nail to create a snug fit. It is recommended to have a table of drill bit sizes handy to ensure the correct size is selected. The hole should be slightly larger than the nail, typically no more than 2-4 thousandths of an inch bigger. This will ensure an easy "sliding" fit without being too loose.
Common hardware store nails can be used as a source for making small rivets. However, avoid using hardened nails, such as masonry nails, as they may be difficult to work with. Roofing nails are also mentioned as a suitable option for creating rivets.
When creating decorative rivets or those with specific functional requirements, the shape and style of the nail head may be important. In some cases, you may choose to cut off the original nail head and create a new one by peening or using a heading machine. This allows you to control the size and shape of the head more precisely.
Additionally, consider the material of the nail. Nails made from materials such as steel may require a hacksaw or specialised tools for cutting, whereas softer nails can be cut with pliers. The nail's material will also impact its durability and strength, so choose a material suitable for your intended application.
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Drilling the hole
First, mark the desired location of the rivet with a marker or scribe. This will guide your drilling and ensure accuracy. Place the material on a metal surface and use a nail set or similar tool to create a small divot where the drill bit will sit. This divot helps guide the drill bit and prevents it from slipping. It is important not to drill the entire piece but instead focus on creating one hole at a time.
When choosing a drill bit, refer to a table of drill bit sizes to match the hole size to the rivet. For a snug fit, select a drill bit that is slightly larger than the nail, typically by a few thousandths of an inch. Remember that a poorly sharpened drill bit will create a larger hole, so keep your tools sharp. If you are unsure about the fit, test the hole size by inserting the wire into the hole. If it's too tight, consider using a larger drill bit or a small round file to widen the hole slightly.
Hold the flex shaft perpendicular to the metal surface while drilling. Avoid rotating the drill bit excessively, as it can enlarge the hole. If you encounter significant resistance while drilling, it may be an indication that your drill bit is dull and needs to be replaced. Using a drill press or a Dremel drill press can also help improve accuracy.
If you are joining wood, consider using a washer on the rear of the joint to distribute the load and prevent the rivet from pulling through. In this case, cut the nail down, leaving around 2-4mm protruding. You can use pliers or a hack saw for this step, depending on the type of nail. Adjust the amount of nail protruding to control the size of the 'head' on the rear of the joint.
Additionally, if you are creating a rivet that allows for movement, use a thin piece of cardboard or thin metal like brass foil. Drill a hole in the cardboard and place it between the rivet heads and the base metal. This technique enables the rivet to move freely while maintaining its functionality.
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Cutting the nail
When cutting the nail, it is recommended to leave around 2-4 mm protruding. This length can be adjusted slightly depending on the specific requirements of your project and the desired size of the head. For a hidden or non-decorative application, you can use the nail's head as the rivet head. However, if a good fit is required, it is advisable to cut off the nail head and create a new head for the rivet.
The cutting tools and techniques may vary depending on the type of nail used. For example, when dealing with steel nails, using pliers for cutting may not be effective, and it is suggested to opt for a hacksaw instead. Choosing the appropriate cutting tool ensures a clean and precise cut, making it easier to work with the nail stub during the subsequent steps of the riveting process.
Before cutting the nail, it is essential to mark the desired length accurately. Using a marker or scribe, indicate the cutting point, ensuring that the remaining length aligns with the required protrusion. This step helps prevent errors and allows for a more controlled cutting process. It is also important to consider the type of nail used and select the appropriate cutting tool that can provide a straight and clean cut.
In addition to the precision of the cut, the overall length of the nail should also be considered. When creating a rivet, the nail should be long enough to securely hold the materials being joined. Therefore, it is crucial to measure and mark the nail accurately, taking into account the thickness of the materials and the desired length of the nail stub for the rivet head. This ensures that the nail, once cut, will effectively function as a rivet.
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Creating the 'head'
Creating the head of a rivet from a nail is a simple process that can be done in several ways. One common method is to use the existing head of the nail as the base for the new head. This involves cutting off the original head of the nail and using a vice to hold the nail in place while you shape a new head. You can then use a hammer to carefully shape and form a new head, ensuring that it is larger than the original nail head to create a tight joint. This process can be repeated on both sides of the nail to ensure symmetry and a secure hold.
Another approach is to create a new head from scratch. This method involves removing the nail head and any ridges, leaving only the shank of the nail. You can then use a heading machine or a similar tool to create a new head. This allows for more control over the size and shape of the head, ensuring a precise fit for your specific application.
When creating the head, it is important to consider the size of the hole and the desired fit. The head should be large enough to provide a secure hold but not so large that it causes splitting or other structural issues. The size of the nail protruding from the material will dictate the size of the head, so it is important to cut the nail to the appropriate length before forming the head.
In some cases, you may want to create a decorative head or one that is hidden from view. This can be achieved by shaping and finishing the head to match the surrounding material or by using techniques such as peening to create a unique design.
Additionally, when creating the head, it is important to consider the type of nail being used. Hardened nails, such as masonry nails, should be avoided as they can be difficult to work with and may not be suitable for creating a secure head. Choosing the right type of nail and drill bit size is crucial for a successful rivet.
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Finishing the rivet
When finishing the rivet, it is important to consider the size of the hole you are working with and the type of material you are working on. For instance, when joining wood, you can use a washer at the rear of the joint to prevent the rivet from pulling through. In this case, 2-4mm of the nail should be protruding. If the stub is too short, the head will be small and prone to pulling through; if it is too long, the head will be large and may cause splitting.
If you are working with metal, you can use a drill bit to make a hole for the rivet. It is important to match the size of the drill bit to the size of the wire you are using for your rivet. You want a snug fit, so if you are unsure, make a test hole in scrap metal and insert the wire. If the fit is too tight, use a larger bit or a small round file, or angle the flex shaft to widen the hole.
When drilling, hold the flex shaft perpendicular to the metal and try not to rotate the drill bit too much, as this will make the hole larger. Use a drill press or a Dremel drill press if you can. Mark where you want to place your rivet with a marker or scribe. Place the piece on a metal surface and use a nail set or similar tool to push or tap a small divot where the drill bit will sit.
Drill just one hole at a time. Push the wire into the hole and check the fit. Cut a piece of wire at least 10mm long and ensure one end is flat and smooth. Push this end into the drilled hole, leaving about 1mm extending on one side. Mark 1mm on the other side with a Sharpie, then clip the wire.
To create a rivet that allows pieces to move, use a thin piece of cardboard or thin metal like brass foil. Drill a hole in the cardboard and put it between the rivet heads and the base metal. Put the rivet through the top piece of metal, then the cardboard, and finally the bottom piece of metal. After completing the rivet, rip or soak the cardboard to remove it. To help with removal, cut a slot from the hole to the outside edge.
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Frequently asked questions
It's easy, quick, cheap, and requires no special tools.
You'll need a table of drill bit sizes to match the hole to the rivet. The hole should be no larger than 2-3 thousandths of an inch bigger than the rivet.
Don't use hardened nails, like masonry nails.
First, mark where you want to place your rivet. Drill your first hole, push the wire into the hole and check the fit. Cut the wire, ensuring one end is flat and smooth. Push the flat end into the drilled hole, leaving about one millimetre extending out on one side. Mark one millimetre on the other side and clip the wire. Hit the edge of the nail to make a 'head' form.
