You might consider drilling the holes at the edge, then gluing a back piece of leather on, leaving a little edge (about 3/8-1/2 inch) to over lap to the inside. Then you can use brass rivets or chicago screws to fasten it in place. You'll need to make sure you can still close it with the leather wrapped around. If the fit is too close now you might have trouble adding the leather. Kepp us posted!