In textile, leather and bag manufacturing, various metal accessories must be securely attached to the material. Accessories such as snap fasteners, eyelets, rivets and jeans buttons are usually installed using a press machine.

There are different types of press machines available, and each type can be used for installing specific accessories. In this guide, we explain what a press machine is, what a hand press (tulumba press) does, and which press system is suitable for installing snaps, eyelets and rivets.

 

What Is a Press Machine?

A press machine is a mechanical tool used to install metal accessories onto textile, leather or synthetic materials. These machines apply pressure to securely attach accessories to the material.

Using a press machine provides several advantages:

  • Accessories are installed straight and aligned
  • The connection becomes strong and durable
  • The final product looks professional

Without a proper press tool, accessories may become loose or fall off over time.

 

What Is a Hand Press (Tulumba Press)?

A hand press, also known as a tulumba press, is a manual press machine operated by a lever. It creates pressure through mechanical force and is widely used in textile accessory installation.

Main advantages of a hand press:

  • Easy to use
  • No electricity required
  • Durable and long-lasting structure
  • Compatible with many different dies

By changing the installation dies, a hand press can be used to install different types of accessories.

 

Snap Fastener Press

A snap fastener press is used to install snap buttons onto garments or textile products.

Snap fasteners are commonly used in:

  • Jackets and coats
  • Bags and backpacks
  • Textile products
  • Baby clothing

Common snap systems include:

  • VT2 snap fasteners
  • 54 system snaps (15 mm)
  • 61 system snaps (17 mm)

Each snap system requires its own installation die.

 

Eyelet Press Machine

An eyelet press machine is used to install metal eyelets (grommets) into fabric or leather materials.

Eyelets are commonly used in:

  • Bags and backpacks
  • Tarpaulin and tent fabrics
  • Shoes and footwear
  • Advertising banners
  • Textile and garment products

Common eyelet sizes:

  • No.2 eyelets
  • No.3 eyelets
  • No.4 eyelets

Each eyelet size requires a compatible installation die.

Rivet Press Machine

A rivet press machine is used to attach metal rivets to textile or leather materials.

Rivets are commonly used in:

  • Leather goods
  • Bag manufacturing
  • Shoe production
  • Decorative textile accessories

Rivets increase both the durability and aesthetic appearance of products.

 

Things to Consider When Choosing a Press Machine

When selecting a press machine, the following factors should be considered:

Purpose of Use

Determine which accessories you plan to install with the press machine.

Die Compatibility

Not every press machine supports all dies. Make sure the dies you need are compatible with the press.

Build Quality

Press machines made with durable metal bodies provide longer service life.

Ease of Use

Manual hand presses are ideal for workshops, small manufacturers and hobby production.

 

What Accessories Can Be Installed With a Hand Press?

With the correct installation die, a hand press can be used to install many textile accessories:

  • Snap fasteners
  • Metal eyelets
  • Rivets
  • Jeans buttons
  • Metal buttons

This makes the hand press a versatile and essential tool for textile and leather production.

Press machines are essential tools in textile and leather manufacturing. Hand presses are particularly popular because they are simple to use, durable and compatible with many accessory types.

With the correct dies, a hand press can easily install snap fasteners, eyelets, rivets and jeans buttons, making it a valuable machine for workshops and manufacturers.

When choosing a press machine, always consider the accessories you plan to install and the compatibility of the dies.