How to Set Grommets: A DIY Crafter’s Guide
Grommets might seem like a small detail, but they can make a big difference in your DIY projects. These little metal or plastic rings strengthen holes and give your work a polished look. In this instructional post, we'll explain what grommets are, why they’re useful, and walk you through installing them step by step. We’ll also share handy tips, point out common mistakes to avoid, and suggest fun projects where you can put your new grommet-setting skills to use. By the end, you'll be confidently adding grommets to everything from bags to curtains.
Grommets (also sometimes called eyelets) are small rings, usually made of metal (brass, aluminum, etc.) or durable plastic, that are inserted into a hole in a material to reinforce it. In a two-piece grommet, one half has a barrel (neck) and the other is a flat washer; when crimped together they grip the material tightly. The grommet basically lines the hole, protecting the edges of the fabric or leather from wear and preventing tearing. This means you can run cords, laces, or straps through the hole without ripping the material.
Parts of a typical two-piece grommet, consisting of a "male" piece with a protruding barrel (left) and a flat "female" washer (right). You might hear “eyelet” used interchangeably with grommet. Technically, an eyelet is usually a smaller, one-piece metal ring clinched into the material (often used in clothing like shoe eyelets), whereas a grommet typically refers to the two-part component with a separate washer for extra reinforcement. Practically speaking, both serve the same purpose of reinforcing holes, but two-part grommets are preferred for heavier-duty applications. By using grommets, you’ll ensure that the holes in your project can withstand stress (like a drawstring being pulled) and won’t fray or stretch out easily over time.
Tools and Materials Needed
Before you begin, gather the necessary tools and materials. Setting grommets is fairly simple, but having the right supplies will make the process go smoothly. Here’s what you’ll need:
Grommets: in your desired size and finish. Remember each grommet comes as a two-piece set (a male half and a female washer) that must match each other. You can buy packs of grommets at craft or sewing stores. Common sizes range from small (for shoes or corsets) to large (for curtains or tarps). Choose a size that suits your project and material thickness.
Hole cutter or punch die: to create a clean hole in the material. Alternatively, you can use a sharp awl, fabric hole punch pliers, or even small scissors for fabric (more on this in the steps). The hole should be just big enough for the grommet’s barrel to fit through, but not too loose.
Setting dies: to setting grommets with hand press grommet machine.
Hand press machine: A lever-press device with interchangeable dies for different grommet sizes. This is more of an investment, but makes setting grommets very quick and consistent, especially for larger sizes or many grommets. (The dies sold for hand presses – like those on YF Store – correspond to specific grommet diameters but the installation process is similar.)
Marking tool – such as a pencil, fabric pen, or chalk to mark where the grommet will go.
Scrap wood block or thick cardboard – to place under your work when cutting the hole and setting the grommet. This protects your table and provides a solid surface to punch against. A piece of hardwood or a cutting board works well.
Reinforcement material (optional) – If your fabric is very thin or prone to fraying, consider ironing on a small square of interfacing to the area or adding an extra layer of fabric where the grommet will go. This gives the grommet more to “bite” into and prevents the hole from ripping under stress.
Step-by-Step Guide: Setting a Grommet
Mark the Position. Determine exactly where you need the grommet. Measure and mark the center point for the hole on your material with a pencil or fabric marker. If you plan to install multiple grommets (for example, several along a edge of a banner or a corset back), use a ruler or measuring gauge to space them evenly. Mark lightly (or use a disappearing fabric pen) on the side of the material that will be the back, if possible. Ensuring precise placement now will give you a professional look later.
Punch the Hole. Next, create a hole at your marked point. Align your hole punch tool (from the grommet kit) over the mark. Place your material on a scrap wood block or cutting mat so you can cut through without damage. Aim to make the hole just slightly smaller than the grommet’s diameter.
Insert the Grommet Pieces. Now take the tall male half of the grommet (the piece with the protruding barrel) and push it through the hole from the front (right side) of the material. The flange (flat ring part) should be fully flush against the front of the fabric, and the barrel should be poking out the back. Place the material (with the grommet in it) on your base anvil. The anvil typically has a recessed side to cradle the grommet flange – make sure the grommet is sitting in that recess so it’s supported. Now, on the back side of the material, place the washer (female half) over the grommet’s barrel. If your washers have a domed or curved side, usually the concave (dented) side faces up toward you, and the flatter side goes against the material. The washer should slide down over the barrel completely. At this point, your “sandwich” (from bottom to top) is: anvil, grommet flange (male piece) under the material, the material/fabric itself, then the washer on top.
Secure the Grommet.
Insert the correct size die set into your press (one die will hold the grommet, the other will flare the barrel). Place the grommet and washer with the fabric between them under the press, aligned in the dies. Pull the lever on the press to compress the pieces – it will apply even pressure and crimp the grommet in one go. This typically gives a very neat result.