Quick answer
Choose a concho by matching its size and attachment style to your leather project's thickness and placement. Screwback conchos suit thin straps, while conchos with posts work better for thicker belts or holsters.
Size and scale matter
A concho that's too large can overwhelm a small wallet or watchband, while one that's too small may get lost on a wide belt. Measure your project area before shopping. The Motorcycle Engine Concho has a 1.2-inch diameter, making it a medium-sized accent suitable for bags or straps. The Turtle Critter Concho is smaller at 0.88 x 1.13 inches, better for key fobs or narrow bracelets.
Attachment method affects installation
Most conchos from Tandy Leather use screwback attachments, which require a small hole and a backing screw. This works well on leather up to about 1/4 inch thick. For thicker leather, consider a concho with a longer post or a rivet-style attachment, though those are less common in decorative conchos. The Longhorn Gold Plated Concho and Texas Star Concho both use screwback attachments, making them easy to install on most medium-weight leathers.
Style and finish set the tone
Concho finishes range from antique silver to gold plate. Antique silver gives a vintage, western look, while gold accents add contrast. The Longhorn Gold Plated Concho combines both for a striking two-tone effect. The Texas Star Concho uses a shiny silver ring around a gold star for a more polished appearance. Match the finish to your project's hardware and overall aesthetic.
Your concho decision guide
- Match diameter to project width: For a belt up to 1.5 inches wide, choose a concho no larger than 1.25 inches. For a watchband or key fob, pick a concho under 1 inch. Measure your project's width and compare it to the concho diameter.
- Check leather thickness for screwback conchos: Screwback conchos work best on leather between 4-10 oz (1/16 to 5/32 inch thick). For thicker leather, you may need to countersink the back or use a different attachment. If your leather is thicker than 10 oz, consider a concho with a longer post or a different attachment method.
- Consider the final sale policy: Some conchos, like the Motorcycle Engine Concho, are final sale and cannot be returned. Confirm your project dimensions and design before ordering these items. Double-check your choice before buying final sale conchos.
Concho options at a glance
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Motorcycle Engine Concho - FINAL SALE: Antique silver finish, 1.2-inch diameter, zinc and aluminum construction, final sale. Its medium size and durable metals make it a versatile accent for bags or straps, but final sale means you must be sure of your choice before purchasing.
Motorcycle Engine Concho - FINAL SALE
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Longhorn Gold Plated Concho: Gold plated longhorn on antique silver oblong base, screwback attachment, 1 x 1.75 inches. The oblong shape and two-tone finish add visual interest, ideal for belt centers or hatbands where a wider accent is desired.
Longhorn Gold Plated Concho
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Texas Star Concho: Shiny silver ring with gold plated Texas star, screwback, 1.19-inch diameter. The star motif and dual-tone finish make it a standout choice for western-themed projects while still fitting in tight spaces.
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Turtle Critter Concho: Hand polished antique silver, nickel free, screwback, 0.88 x 1.13 inches. Its small size and nickel-free plating suit projects for sensitive skin, like watchbands or bracelets.
Ideal concho choices
Best for
- Leathercrafters adding a western accent to belts, hatbands, or bags
- Projects needing a decorative focal point that is easy to install with a simple hole and screw
Not for
- Very thick leather (over 12 oz) where screwback posts may be too short
- Projects requiring a flush, no-backing appearance (consider rivet-style conchos instead)
