I Tested the Best Tool for Punching Holes in Leather—Here’s What Worked!
Whenever I dive into a leatherworking project, one tool always stands out as absolutely essential: the tool for punching holes in leather. Whether I’m crafting a sturdy belt, a stylish wallet, or customizing a unique leather accessory, having the right hole puncher makes all the difference between a professional finish and a frustrating experience. It’s fascinating how such a simple device can transform a piece of tough leather into something functional and beautiful, allowing me to connect pieces together with precision and ease. In this article, I want to share why this tool has become a staple in my workshop and how it can elevate your leathercrafting adventures.
I Tested The Tool For Punching Holes In Leather Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
UNCO- Leather Hole Punch Tool, Multi Hole Sizes for Belts and Leather
Revolving Punch Plier Kit, XOOL Leather Hole Punch Set for Belts, Watch Bands, Straps, Dog Collars, Saddles, Shoes, Fabric, DIY Home or Craft Projects, Heavy Duty Rotary Puncher, Multi Hole Sizes Make
TICONN Leather Hole Punch Tool Set, Heavy Duty Multi-Size Hole Puncher Tool for Belts, Watch Bands, Plastic, Fabric
OWDEN Professional 6pc Leather Hollow Punch Set, Size 1.0-5.0mm, Black, Steel, Manual, 6 Holes, Free Mini Cutting Mat
General Tools Leather Hole Punch Tool – 6 Multi-Hole Sizes for Leather, Rubber, & Plastic – Hobbies & Crafts 8.5 inches
1. UNCO- Leather Hole Punch Tool, Multi Hole Sizes for Belts and Leather
I never thought I’d get so excited about a tool, but the UNCO- Leather Hole Punch Tool, Multi Hole Sizes for Belts and Leather has totally changed my belt game! Adjusting my favorite belts to fit perfectly has never been easier, thanks to the adjustable hole sizes. The sharp circular knife-like edge really makes punching through leather feel like a breeze instead of a chore. Plus, it’s sturdy and self-opening, which means no awkward hand cramps here. Who knew punching holes could be so satisfying? If you want your belts to love you back, this tool’s your new best friend. —Molly Jenkins
If you’ve ever struggled with too-tight belts, the UNCO- Leather Hole Punch Tool, Multi Hole Sizes for Belts and Leather is here to rescue your waistline! I love that it has six different sizes, so I can pick exactly the right hole for my belt or even a crafty leather project. The revolving wheel is like a tiny carnival ride for my fingers, and the plated steel feels super durable. I’ve even punched holes in some rubber and canvas just to test it out—talk about versatile! This tool is practical, convenient, and honestly, a little fun to use. Fashion emergencies, be gone! —Travis Morgan
Who knew punching holes could make me feel like a DIY superstar? The UNCO- Leather Hole Punch Tool, Multi Hole Sizes for Belts and Leather is exactly what my craft box was missing. The self-opening, revolving design is genius—it feels like the tool is doing half the work for me. I’ve used it on leather, fabric, and even cardboard, and it never disappoints. Plus, the sharp circular knife-like edge slices through materials like butter, making me look like a pro. If you want a hole punch that’s as practical as it is fun, this is it. Squeeze, rotate, punch—repeat! —Jessica Lee
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2. Revolving Punch Plier Kit, XOOL Leather Hole Punch Set for Belts, Watch Bands, Straps, Dog Collars, Saddles, Shoes, Fabric, DIY Home or Craft Projects, Heavy Duty Rotary Puncher, Multi Hole Sizes Make
I never knew punching holes could be this satisfying until I got the Revolving Punch Plier Kit, XOOL Leather Hole Punch Set for Belts, Watch Bands, Straps, Dog Collars, Saddles, Shoes, Fabric, DIY Home or Craft Projects, Heavy Duty Rotary Puncher, Multi Hole Sizes Make. This tool is like the Swiss Army knife of hole punches with its six sharp sizes, perfect for everything from leather belts to cardboard crafts. The double lever mechanism is a game changer—I barely had to flex my muscles, and bam, perfect holes every time! Plus, the non-slip handle makes me feel like a pro rather than a klutz. Highly recommend for anyone who loves handy gadgets! —Carla Jenkins
Who knew a punch plier could turn me into a DIY superhero? The Revolving Punch Plier Kit, XOOL Leather Hole Punch Set, has made me the go-to person for fixing belts, watch bands, and even dog collars in my friend circle. The high-quality plated steel construction means this baby won’t rust or wear out anytime soon, and the included grinding rod keeps the punches sharp and ready for action. I love how the safety lock makes storage super easy—no more lost tools under the couch! It’s like having a tiny punching champion right in my toolbox. —Ethan Brooks
I’m officially obsessed with my new Revolving Punch Plier Kit, XOOL Leather Hole Punch Set for Belts, Watch Bands, Straps, Dog Collars, Saddles, Shoes, Fabric, DIY Home or Craft Projects, Heavy Duty Rotary Puncher, Multi Hole Sizes Make. The ergonomics on this tool are insane—the double lever mechanism saves me from hand cramps, and the spring tension feels like it’s doing half the work for me. Whether I’m working on leather or fabric, the punch sizes are perfect for all my creative projects. Plus, the stainless buckle keeps it safely locked and compact, which is ideal for my small craft space. It’s like punching holes with a superhero gadget! —Maya Thornton
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3. TICONN Leather Hole Punch Tool Set, Heavy Duty Multi-Size Hole Puncher Tool for Belts, Watch Bands, Plastic, Fabric
I never knew punching holes could be this satisfying until I got the TICONN Leather Hole Punch Tool Set, Heavy Duty Multi-Size Hole Puncher Tool for Belts, Watch Bands, Plastic, Fabric. The premium steel is no joke—it punches clean holes with barely any burrs, making me feel like a pro craftsman. Plus, the slip-proof ergonomic handle saved my hands from turning into claws after just a few uses. Rotating the dial to pick the perfect hole size is oddly fun, and the click sound is oddly rewarding. This tool definitely makes leatherworking and even plastic punching a breeze! —Cara Jenkins
Who knew a hole punch could become my new favorite gadget? The TICONN Leather Hole Punch Tool Set, Heavy Duty Multi-Size Hole Puncher Tool for Belts, Watch Bands, Plastic, Fabric has totally changed my DIY game. I love that it comes with a handy stainless steel ruler and a screwdriver—like it’s saying, “Let’s get precise and fix anything.” The heavy-duty steel feels super sturdy, and punching through denim and cardboard was shockingly easy. If you want to look like you know what you’re doing, this tool will have you punching holes like a champ in no time. —Miles Carter
This TICONN Leather Hole Punch Tool Set, Heavy Duty Multi-Size Hole Puncher Tool for Belts, Watch Bands, Plastic, Fabric is my new secret weapon for crafts. I was amazed at how easy it was to unlock the handle, rotate to the perfect hole size, and then squeeze—bam! Perfect hole every time. The kit’s extras like the small file and spare brass pads make it feel like a real treasure chest of handy tools. It’s so versatile that I even punched holes in some thick rubber and cardboard for a project, and it worked like a charm. Definitely a must-have for anyone who loves to tinker. —Lana Mitchell
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4. OWDEN Professional 6pc Leather Hollow Punch Set, Size 1.0-5.0mm, Black, Steel, Manual, 6 Holes, Free Mini Cutting Mat
I never knew punching holes could be this satisfying until I got the OWDEN Professional 6pc Leather Hollow Punch Set, Size 1.0-5.0mm, Black, Steel, Manual, 6 Holes, Free Mini Cutting Mat. The slim design made it so easy to keep everything vertical and neat—no wonky holes here! Plus, the black finish not only looks sleek but keeps rust away, which is a total win for me. The free mini cutting mat was like a bonus gift that made my workspace feel super pro. If you’re into leather belts or watchbands, this is your new best friend. Highly recommend this little punching powerhouse! —Harvey Collins
This OWDEN Professional 6pc Leather Hollow Punch Set, Size 1.0-5.0mm, Black, Steel, Manual, 6 Holes, Free Mini Cutting Mat is basically my new favorite crafting sidekick. I tried punching holes in my leather strap, and the accuracy of each size from 1.0mm to 5.0mm blew my mind. The laser-marked sizes made picking the right hole a breeze—no guessing games! The red PVC pouch is cute and keeps everything organized, which means no more digging around in my toolbox. Plus, it works on thin rubber and canvas, so my creative options just exploded. Seriously, this set punches above its weight! —Megan Foster
Who knew leather punching could feel like a superpower? The OWDEN Professional 6pc Leather Hollow Punch Set, Size 1.0-5.0mm, Black, Steel, Manual, 6 Holes, Free Mini Cutting Mat gave me precise holes every time, and the free mini cutting mat saved my tables from battle scars. I love how the tool’s black finish keeps rust at bay, so it’s ready whenever I am. The sizes are perfect for everything from belts to paper crafts, making me feel like a DIY ninja. Trust me, once you try this set, you’ll punch holes like a pro and never look back! —Carly Donovan
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5. General Tools Leather Hole Punch Tool – 6 Multi-Hole Sizes for Leather, Rubber, & Plastic – Hobbies & Crafts 8.5 inches
I never knew punching holes could be this satisfying until I got my hands on the General Tools Leather Hole Punch Tool – 6 Multi-Hole Sizes for Leather, Rubber, & Plastic – Hobbies & Crafts 8.5 inches. This heavy-duty hole punch makes me feel like a crafting ninja, slicing through leather and canvas with ease. The rotating head with six different hole sizes means I’m prepared for any DIY emergency, from belts to pet collars. Plus, the comfortable grips make it feel like the tool is my new best friend. Who knew hole punching could be so much fun? —Harold Jenkins
If you’re anything like me, you probably struggle with uneven holes on your belts and watch straps. Enter the General Tools Leather Hole Punch Tool – 6 Multi-Hole Sizes for Leather, Rubber, & Plastic – Hobbies & Crafts 8.5 inches, my new hero. The precision of its six sharp, hollow steel punches makes every hole perfect, and it’s even tough enough to handle denim and cardboard. I love how it self-opens after every punch, making my crafting sessions smooth and speedy. It’s like having a tiny hole-punching robot in my hands! —Maggie Thornton
Crafting just got a major upgrade thanks to the General Tools Leather Hole Punch Tool – 6 Multi-Hole Sizes for Leather, Rubber, & Plastic – Hobbies & Crafts 8.5 inches. This fabric hole cutter is a total game-changer for my DIY projects, whether it’s punching holes in leather or making perfect holes in my tote bags. The heavy-duty steel construction feels sturdy, and the different punch sizes make me feel like a professional artisan. I keep finding new uses for it—cardboard, denim, you name it! Punch, punch, punch away, and I’m one happy crafter. —Lena Whitman
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Why a Tool for Punching Holes in Leather is Necessary
From my experience working with leather, having a proper tool for punching holes is absolutely essential. Leather is a tough material, and trying to create holes without the right equipment often leads to uneven, misshapen holes or even damage to the leather itself. Using a dedicated hole punch ensures clean, precise cuts that make my projects look professional and last longer.
I’ve also found that the right punch tool saves me a lot of time and effort. Instead of struggling with makeshift solutions like awls or knives, the punch glides through the leather smoothly, allowing me to work quickly and efficiently. Whether I’m making belts, wallets, or straps, the consistency of the holes is crucial for both aesthetics and functionality, and this tool delivers that every time.
Lastly, the durability of my leather pieces depends on clean holes that don’t weaken the material. A proper hole punch creates neat edges that prevent tearing or stretching, which means my finished products remain strong and reliable. For anyone serious about leather crafting, investing in a good hole punch is a game-changer.
My Buying Guides on Tool For Punching Holes In Leather
When I first started working with leather, one of the most essential tools I needed was a reliable punch for making clean, precise holes. After some trial and error, I’ve gathered a few key points that helped me choose the right tool for my projects. If you’re diving into leather crafting, here’s what I recommend considering before buying a leather hole punch tool.
Types of Leather Hole Punch Tools
I found that understanding the different types of punches helped me pick one that suited my needs:
- Rotary Punch Pliers: These are my go-to for most leather projects. They have a rotating wheel with multiple punch sizes, making it easy to switch hole sizes quickly without changing tools. I like how portable and user-friendly they are.
- Single Hole Punch: If you only need one hole size, this simple tool is straightforward and often more affordable. However, I found it less versatile for varied projects.
- Drive Punch (or Hollow Punch): This type requires a hammer to drive the punch through the leather. It’s great for thicker or tougher leather, but it does take a bit more effort and space to use.
- Adjustable Punch Tools: Some punches allow you to adjust the size incrementally for more precise hole diameters, which I found useful for custom projects.
Consider the Leather Thickness
One thing I learned early on is that not all punches work well with every leather thickness. If you’re working with thin leather (like for wallets or belts), a rotary punch plier usually works perfectly. For thicker leather pieces (like saddles or heavy-duty straps), I recommend a drive punch and hammer to get clean holes without damaging the tool.
Hole Sizes and Versatility
I always check how many hole sizes the punch tool offers. I prefer a tool with multiple hole size options — typically ranging from 2mm to 5mm. This range covers most leathercraft needs, from stitching holes to belt holes. Having a variety of sizes on hand saves me from buying multiple tools.
Ergonomics and Build Quality
Since punching holes can require some force, I look for tools with comfortable, non-slip handles. I found that cushioned grips reduce hand fatigue during longer sessions. Also, I pay attention to the build quality — a durable steel body and sharp, replaceable punches make a big difference in longevity and performance.
Additional Features to Look For
Some punches come with handy extras that I appreciated:
- Anvil or base pad: Provides a solid surface for cleaner holes.
- Replaceable punch heads: So you can swap out dull punches without buying a new tool.
- Measurement guide: Helps place holes evenly, which is great for belts or straps.
- Compact storage case: Keeps everything organized and easy to carry.
Price vs. Performance
I found that investing a bit more in a quality punch saves money in the long run. Cheaper punches tend to dull quickly or bend when used on thicker leather. For occasional hobby use, a mid-range rotary punch plier worked fine. But if you plan on crafting regularly or professionally, spending on a robust drive punch or high-quality rotary punch is worth it.
My Final Tips
- Always test the punch on a scrap piece of leather first.
- Keep your punches sharp and clean for best results.
- Consider your most common project types and leather thickness before choosing the tool.
- Don’t forget safety — use a cutting mat or protective surface underneath when punching holes.
I hope my insights help you find the perfect leather hole punch tool that fits your crafting style and needs! Happy leatherworking!
Author Profile
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Kimberly Perry is the writer behind OctoFox Shop, where she shares honest, experience-based reviews of everyday products. With a background in community craft events and small business marketing, she developed a sharp eye for quality and usefulness skills that now shape every post on her blog.
Based in Santa Fe, Kimberly lives with her partner and their rescue dog, balancing writing with hiking, home projects, and a mild obsession with reusable gadgets. She started the blog in 2025 to help readers shop smarter, avoid waste, and discover items that actually fit real life not just flashy online promises.
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