Description
Chicago Screws 8mm Gunmetal 20 Pack
Chicago Screws 8mm Gunmetal are a practical screw-together fastening for bag straps, handles, tabs and other areas where you want a secure metal attachment without using a specialised setting tool.
Each Chicago Screw has two matching pieces: a post with an internal thread and a screw that tightens into it. This makes them easy to install with a flat-head screwdriver and allows them to be removed again if you need to replace a strap, adjust a project or access the layers underneath.
The 8mm measurement refers to the post length, while the visible cap measures approximately 9.5mm across. Understanding the difference makes it much easier to choose the right size for your project.
Why Bag Makers Love Chicago Screws
- No specialised setting tool required
- Can be installed using a flat-head screwdriver
- Reusable and removable when needed
- Useful for straps, handles and layered tabs
- Matching rounded caps on both sides
- Functional fastening that can also become part of your bag design
- Sold in a convenient pack of 20
Chicago Screw Measurements
- Post length: 8mm
- Post width: 4mm
- Cap width: 9.5mm
- Cap height: approximately 1.2mm
- Finish: Gunmetal
- Quantity: 20 complete Chicago Screws
The 8mm size describes the length of the post, not the width of the cap.
Choosing the Right Post Length
The best Chicago Screw post length depends on the combined thickness of every layer the post needs to pass through.
Your project layers should fit comfortably along the post while still allowing the screw to engage securely with the internal thread. If the post is too short, the screw may not catch properly. If it is too long, the caps may not tighten firmly against the project.
Because vinyl faux leather, leather, webbing, interfacing and stabilisers can vary in thickness and density, always test the Chicago Screw with the same materials and number of layers you plan to use in your finished project.
You can explore other post lengths and finishes in our Chicago Screws collection.
Perfect for Bag Making Projects
Chicago Screws can be used for many bag making and sewing projects, including:
- Crossbody and shoulder straps
- Bag handles
- Strap ends and connector tabs
- Backpack straps
- Wristlet straps
- Leather and vinyl faux leather accents
- Webbing attachments
- Wallets and small accessories
- Decorative hardware details
They are especially useful when you want the option to remove or replace a strap or hardware component later.
Preparing the Hole
These Chicago Screws have a 4mm wide post, so the prepared hole needs to suit the post without leaving an unnecessarily loose fit.
For flexible hand-operated hole placement, the Screw Hole Punch Tool includes a 4mm punch head and can reach areas that may be difficult to position in a hand press.
If you use a KAM DK93 Hand Press, the 4mm Hole Cutting Die Set for Thicker Materials is designed for vinyl faux leather, leather, stabilised fabrics and thicker project layers.
The 26 Piece Hole Cutting Punch Set is another useful option when you would like a wider range of hole sizes for different hardware.
Always test the hole size and fit using the actual Chicago Screw before cutting holes in your finished project.
How to Install Chicago Screws
- Mark the placement of the Chicago Screw on your project.
- Prepare a hole through all project layers using a suitable 4mm hole cutting tool.
- Insert the post through the prepared hole from one side.
- Place the screw into the post from the opposite side.
- Keep both caps aligned and tighten the screw using a flat-head screwdriver.
- Check that the caps sit securely against the project without crushing or distorting the materials.
Use controlled pressure while tightening. The screw should be secure, but overtightening may compress softer project layers or mark the hardware.
Chicago Screws or Double Cap Rivets?
Chicago Screws and Double Cap Rivets can both be used to attach straps, handles and tabs, but they are installed differently.
- Chicago Screws screw together using a flat-head screwdriver and can be removed again if required.
- Double Cap Rivets are permanently set using a hand setting tool or matching press die.
The best choice depends on the look you want, the thickness of your project and whether you would like the fastening to remain removable.
Helpful Tip from Chris
Before installing Chicago Screws in your finished bag, make a small test piece using the same materials, stabilisers and number of layers.
Check that the 8mm post length suits the complete layer build-up, that the 4mm hole fits the post correctly and that the screw tightens securely without crushing the project.
For straps, handles and other attachment points, make sure the surrounding area is suitably reinforced so the hardware and project structure work together.
Product Details
- Product: Chicago Screws 8mm Gunmetal
- Post length: 8mm
- Post width: 4mm
- Cap width: 9.5mm
- Cap height: approximately 1.2mm
- Finish: Gunmetal
- Pack size: 20 complete Chicago Screws
- Installation: Flat-head screwdriver required
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