MJ, if you use rivets on the chaps, either to hold pieces together or as decoration, use brass or copper rivets.  There is always a temptation for a blacksmith to use steel rivets and they can look good but because iron is a more reactive element it has a higher tendencly to stain the leather.  I once did that with a knife sheath and learned my lesson the hard way.

Are you going to have them fringed or otherwise decorated.  I have seen some that were over the top for decoration, more rodeo parade chaps than real working chaps.

You can always use them with a short apron in the shop.

GNM

George, I will be possibly using a few copper rivets but for the most part it will be done with a speedy stitcher. As these are working chaps (and i have little experience working with leather) I don't plan to go fancy: my initials, possibly my makers mark design and a few animals/heads 

see below for a possible idea for the right side