Antique Brass Rivet Washers, 8.5 mm - Set of 50 - Outlet

Antique Brass Rivet Washers, 8.5 mm - Set of 50

Ideal for Historical Crafts and Modern DIY

The primary purpose of these washers is to reinforce riveted joints on historical replicas. You can use them when making or repairing:

• Leather belts, strap ends, and buckle plates,
• Pouches, quivers, and knife scabbards,
• Parts of leather armour, such as pauldrons or bracers,
• Historical footwear and other accessories.

However, their antique look can be applied beyond the world of reenactment. You can get creative and use them in your household DIY projects – for example, as a decorative element on wooden boxes, picture frames, in the creation of Steampunk accessories, or when restoring old furniture to add a touch of authenticity.

The Washer Through the Ages

A Small but Indispensable Helper

While a washer might seem like a modern invention, its principle is thousands of years old. Simple rings made of metal, bone, or hard leather were used by the ancient Romans to strengthen joints in construction, shipbuilding, and of course, on military equipment. In the Middle Ages, they became an absolutely indispensable part of every armourer's, saddler's, and leatherworker's kit. Their function has always been the same: to prevent the head of a nail, rivet, or nut from pulling through a softer material.

Fun Fact: Coin or Washer?

Did you know that some of the first standardised "washers" looked very similar to coins? For example, ancient Chinese coins were round with a typical square hole in the centre. While their primary function was currency, their shape was so ideal for the function of a washer that worthless or counterfeit coins were undoubtedly commonly used for this very purpose in a variety of crafts.

Installation and Care

How to Install

Installation is very straightforward. Slide the washer onto the shank of the rivet after it has passed through the materials you are joining. Place it between the material and the end of the rivet you are about to peen. By subsequently hammering (peening) the end of the rivet, you create a second head that rests securely against the surface of the washer, creating a strong and reliable joint.

Maintenance and Important Notes

Thanks to their patinated surface, these washers require no special care. The patina protects them and gives them their desired appearance. If you want to maintain their antique character, avoid using polishing pastes and abrasive cleaners. Remember that these are components intended for crafting and decorative purposes; do not use them for heavy-duty engineering applications where certified steel washers are required.

Technical Specifications

• Outer Diameter: approx. 8.56 mm (approx. 0.34 in)
• Inner Diameter: approx. 3.38 mm (approx. 0.13 in)
• Thickness: approx. 0.62 mm (approx. 0.02 in)
• Material: Patinated Brass
• Set Weight (50 pcs): approx. 10 g (approx. 0.35 oz)