How to Attach Grommets
Grommets are metal rings punched into fabrics, leaving a hole surrounded by the metal. These metal rings come in varying diameters, ranging from very small-sized rings, such as those sometimes found on shoes, to quite large, heavy-duty devices, such as those found on sails and tarps. Grommets allow cords, ropes or poles to pass through them, making them useful for lace-up clothing. They also can make very easy curtains if you substitute the rings for a row of grommets. They are also known as eyelets.
Instructions
-
-
1
Mark the center of the location on the fabric where you want your grommet to be placed with a fabric pencil.
-
2
Cut away fabric with your utility knife just large enough to allow clearance for your grommet. The grommet will have two pieces. One piece is a flat, circular washer. The other is largely the same except that it has a tube sticking out. The tube is what you want to be able to get through your fabric.
-
-
3
Stick the tube of the grommet through the hole. The smooth side of the grommet should be on the good side the fabric, with the tube punching through to the wrong side.
-
4
Slide the washer over the tube.
-
5
If you are using grommet pliers, simply fit the two pieces of grommet onto their respective slots on the tool. Press evenly and hard with the handles. If you are using a hammer tool, place the smaller, bottom part of the tool underneath the tube grommet part and the larger and longer top part of the tool over the opposite side. Deliver a few even blows with a rubber mallet or hammer.
-
6
Remove whichever tool you used.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
If you don't have a fabric pencil to mark the spot, just use a regular marker or pen. This part of the fabric is going to be punched out anyway.
It is important to center your tools over the grommets and apply even pressure to get a professional-looking, even result.
