Quick Repair of Torn Strap in Lorica Segmentata?

[rszebras]

I have a leather strap in the inside of my Deepeeka lorica segmentata that is torn, although not completely, and I'm trying to decide the easiest temporary fix. Drilling out all the rivits and replacing it isn't an option, as I don't really know how to do it, and I have two events scheduled over the next two weeks and don't have time if I did know. So, what's the best way to do it? I have a photo posted so you can take a look.

I was thinking about getting some type of thread (any suggestions?) and sewing vertically (five or ten times) at the location of the two arrow marks on the photo. I'm concerned it might tear in that location though. But again it's temporary.

Thanks for any help.

Randy Sampson