An eyelet is a tiny ring that is inserted and attached into a hole to strengthen its edges. You can find it in different materials, size, designs, and brands. However, to make most out of this excellent accessory, you need to go for the right one. Would you like to dive deeper into details? Let us explore more!

An eyelet comes in the form of a ring or edge strip that you can use to reinforce holes made on surfaces like fabric, leather, sheet metal etc. You will usually find them flared or collared on each side so that when you insert them into the hole, they can remain fixed at one place. You can use them to prevent abrasion or tearing of the pierced material. For example, eyelets can be found in various forms on your leather shoes to give way to shoelaces. They are also used on curtains so that you can hang them through the tensioner rod. Although different eyelets suit different applications. So, on this page, we will unveil things you need to know about them so that you can choose the right type. Towards the end, you will also find some tips to buy eyelets online in the UAE.

Things you need to know about eyelets

Eyelets come in a wide assortment of materials ranging from plastic to rubber and even metal. You can set it into a material through hand or machine. Some manufacturers make heavy and sturdy eyelets built for heavy-duty uses whereas others come in small size and light construction, suitable for materials like fabric. Eyelets and grommets are similar accessories that have a wide range of application from drapery, curtains, and upholstery to boat covers, industrial covers and many more. Eyelets for shoes is another popular application. It is essential to use this accessory else the wire, rope or cord that runs through the hole may damage its edges and ultimately the whole material. Let us explore a few things you need to know about them in order to choose the best.

Differences between eyelet and grommet

Many people interchangeably use eyelet and grommet due to their similar structure and function. However, they are a bit different technically! An eyelet is a tiny piece of metal that you use to reinforce a hole that has been made in a fabric and other similar stuff. You will usually find it materials like brass. Although the new generation of eyelets includes Nickle finished and aluminium craft designs. As it has an attractive flange, designers also use it as functional decorations on textile and garments. Grommets are similar to eyelets as they also reinforce holes, but they are for heavy-duty uses. Some of its uses include working with sails, tents, tarps, or flags. Also, you can find them on your boots from which the laces have to pass.

Popular materials like brass & stainless steel eyelets

The most common material for eyelets is brass, aluminium, brass coated steel, plastic, and stainless steel. However, each material has a set of advantages and shortcomings. For example, Aluminum is corrosion-resistant, lightweight, and easy to set but it may not be as strong as brass and stainless steel. On the other hand, brass eyelets are strong and easy to apply but it may corrode in a saltwater environment. Speaking of stainless steel, it seems to have all the properties. It is strong, durable, corrosion-resistant in most weather condition. However, it is a bit tough to set due to hardness and maybe a bit expensive than other common types of eyelets.

Common tools used to apply metal eyelets

It is easy to apply eyelets into the fabric. However, with some tools, this process becomes even easier and effortless. Some of the common tools include eyelet press, piston plier, eyelet plier and hammer. To get the perfect finish, you can go for the specially designed eyelet press. You just need to put the material to be punched and eyelet in place and press down the handle to apply it. The next option in the row is eyelet plier that is easy to use and press. These include a bit of manual work but even they can give you a good finish. If you do not have availability or budget for any such option, then you can also wind up work with a hammer; however, look for the smaller ones. Additional things that you will require to affix eyelets include fabric to practice, hole punch, marking pen, and scissors.

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