Bring along your belt when shopping, to compare the size of the punch with the size of the existing holes. The punching tool tip should fit tightly through the existing holes. If you have many belts to adjust, look for a rotary model with a wheel of attachments in different sizes.
“Protecting” the leather from the marker with tape is not a great idea, as the tape itself can cause damage. [2] X Research source A careful dot directly where the hole will go is the safer option. If you are making a belt from scratch, the holes are typically spaced ½" (1. 25 cm) apart for belts under ⅜" (1 cm) wide, and up to 1⅛" (2. 85 cm) apart for belts above 1" (2. 5 cm) wide. [3] X Research source
If any leather scraps are stuck in the hole, use a toothpick to push them out.
If your top priority is a comfortable fit, instead wear the belt and pull it to a comfortable position, then mark the belt where the strap tongue touches it.
Insert drill bits by hand into the existing holes. Select one that fits smoothly but tightly into the hole. Use a brad-pointed drill bit if available. If using a smooth drill bit, create a small depression for it to stand in, using a sharp knife or nail. Drill in short bursts, especially when starting the hole. Make sure to put something, that you don’t mind damaging, that doesn’t move around behind the belt, that is thick enough, for when the drill bit goes through. You can also opt to snipping the other end, once it has penetrated the outer layer a bit, instead of drilling a perfect hole.
A nail will make a smoother hole through a thin belt, but if you’re looking to save time, a screw can be turned through the leather, using its threads to tear through faster. Again, be careful of scratching the surface beneath. (Follow the precautions in the previous step. )
