More Than Just Blades: Mastering the Art of the Rivet Tool

In the forge, we spend so much time talking about the edge geometry of a blade—the perfect distal taper, the clean fall of a scandi grind, or the delicate lines of a visible hamon. But every great piece of edged steel, whether it's a massive sword or a simple EDC knife, is built upon foundational metalworking principles. Sometimes, the most essential tools aren't the blades themselves, but the simple, specialized implements that hold the whole project together.

The skill set of a bladesmith is vast. While we focus on the heat treat, the quench, and the temper of the billet, we are also constantly engaged in the broader art of forging. Take, for example, the satisfying process of forming a rivet. It might seem like a simple task, but the tools required, and the precision needed, speak volumes about the craft.

The core of this video is a look at building the basic tools—the top and bottom guides—needed to consistently form button head rivets. Using medium carbon steel for the tools and mild steel for the rivet stock, the smith walks us through the precise, rhythmic actions of dapping and forming. This isn't just hammering metal; it's a lesson in controlled expansion, stress management, and the absolute necessity of having the right jig for the job.

The Principles of Riveting

When we talk about riveting, we are talking about creating a permanent, structurally sound joint. The smith demonstrates how to use the newly formed tools to guide the rivet stock—eight-millimeter round mild steel in this example—and press it into place. Notice the care taken when working on the bottom end. Since this piece lacks shoulders, the smith must be acutely aware of potential expansion or stress points that could get the piece stuck. This attention to detail is something every knife maker needs to remember, whether they are attaching a bolster or setting a custom scale.

The process requires patience. The smith notes that when forming the tools themselves, the outer edges tend to raise, creating a decorative ring. While this might be an 'unintended consequence' on a simple rivet project, it’s a reminder that sometimes the most beautiful features of the craft are the happy accidents—the visible patina, the hammer marks, or the unique decorative flourish that tells a story.

When you are mastering the craft of the blade, whether you are practicing a full tang or working with a hidden tang, understanding the mechanical processes of joining materials is invaluable. It's the difference between a functional piece and a masterpiece.

From Rivets to Blades

This video is a powerful reminder that the forge is a workshop of many disciplines. It's not just about the steel that makes the edge; it's about the preparation, the tools, and the structural integrity of the entire piece. Whether you are commissioning a complex Damascus steel blade or learning the fundamentals of blacksmithing in a live workshop, every step—from the initial heat to the final polish—is a lesson in craft.

If you are looking to deepen your understanding of the craft, whether that means learning the fundamentals of forging or refining your blade-specific skills, the community is here for you. Don't just consume content—create it, or learn it. Find a certified Blade Angel near you, enroll in a structured forge class, or list a custom commission to connect with fellow makers and collectors.