How should I close this gunfighter vest?

[jimmyb.1]

I finally finished my Clint Eastwood gunslinger vest.  It's not very fitted around the waist - I should have tapered the pattern a bit more but it's done.  I used two sheepskin pelts.  I know the movie vest just has a rawhide string but I think I'd like a button.  Either way I'll have to make a slit in the top/overlapping pelt.  1)  What's to keep the hole for the button or string from tearing out? and 2)  Do I sew on the button to the underneath pelt like any other fabric?  The vest is made w/ the wool side in.
Thanks
Jim

[Deadeye Don]

How about posting a picture of the vest so we can see what you are talking about?   

[Dr. Bob]

Use a small hole punch at both ends of the slit.  It can still be torn, but not nearly as likely with normal wear.