You could try a shoe repair shop. Or check for awls at a hardware store.

Donna

I've used a leather hole punch in the past but I doubt you need to buy one for this one task. I'd probably use an awl and then enlarge gradually with various size nails. But you have a nicer bag so a shoe repair shop is a good suggestion.

I'd get a leather hole punch and do it myself. They're inexpensive and you might find it useful if you have one around - belts, etc. We used to have one when I was a kid but I haven't had one since but I could use one for a couple belts and handbags and your post has prompted me to order one. If you order on Amazon you can of course see which ones get good reviews.

If your dry cleaner cleans leather they may have the tool and do it for you gratis.

FWIW, you don't have to get a multi-hole punch tool. There are single hole punches that are used with a hammer.

Here's an example from ebay for .99 w/ free shipping:

https://www.ebay.com/itm/Round-Hollow-Punch-Set-Hand-Tools-Hole-Punching-Leather-Gasket-Carbon-Steel-FBCA/323455179104?hash=item4b4f6e5960:m:mi0O8smK3N4qmClgLhFlc3w:rk:8:pf:0

I use a leather hole puncher like this, which does not require using a hammer, but I have the hammer type also. I find that the hammer ones don't stay sharp very long. I do quite a bit of work with leather, and I've made belts as well as other items. I also add grommets to certain things that I make. I find it easier to make accurate holes with the puncher that you squeeze, but I guess I have a good grip. If you do not have a strong grip, you may prefer the hammer type, especially if you will not be making many holes.

Here's a cheaper version of the squeeze type.

Thanks for the feedback everyone! I haven't found a place that will do hole punches. There is one I can think of that might, but I didn't have a good results when they did a repair to my leather flip flops in the past. Different but.....pass. My friend was into making jewelry for a while and told me she has a leather punch but I'm not sure what type she has. She's also not sure where it's at and was going to do some searching.

Lars - The first puncher you linked to was what I was reading up on earlier today. I think I might go with that one if I do need to purchase something. I didn't measure but I'm going to need to add quite a few holes and think I may do better with one that doesn't use a hammer. I could be wrong. I've never used either but it sounds like there's less room for error.

Do you know anyone who has horses? I had horses when I was younger and it seems like everyone always had a leather punch lying around. Horse stuff is always needing adjustment - longer or shorter.

Nail, hammer, and a block of wood?

I take that stuff to my shoe repair guy.

Lars - I think you’re in So Cal too. Where do you get leather supplies? I’m looking for leather handles for tote bags. Found some on eBay and they were awful.

Find a Boy Scout. All Scouts have leather making tools, and you can help someone earn a merit badge.

Yes, I am in Los Angeles, and I get my leather from work. I get good scraps that are left over from upholstery jobs, and I even have scraps from zebra hides, including manes and tails. I made my brother a zebra belt with some of the scraps, and I had large enough scraps to upholster seats of dining chairs. I have special needles that are meant for leather that I use with my sewing machine.

Lucky you! I'm in North OC. Was hoping you had the magic store that would meet my leather needs. ;)