Eyelet is a small ring made of metal or plastic used to reinforce holes in fabric, leather, and paper. They prevent material from tearing, enhance durability, and can also serve as decorative elements. Whether on sneakers, belts, drawstring bags, or scrapbooks, eyelets make holes more secure and neat while elevating the professional finish.
Many people often confuse eyelets and grommets.
Click here to learn the difference between eyelets and grommets and make quicker decisions based on your application.
This guide will show you how to install eyelets on different materials-fabric, leather, and paper-so even beginners can master the process quickly.
Tools and Materials You Need to Put Eyelets
Before you start installing eyelets, having the right tools and supplies will make the process faster, cleaner, and more durable.
1. Eyelets
Eyelets come in various sizes, shapes, and surface finishes. Select the eyelet size that fits your aperture.
2. Hole Punch
Select the appropriate punch based on your material (fabric punch, leather punch, paper hole punch, or craft punch). Alternatively, you can manually trim holes to size using scissors.
3. Setting Tools
Select the method for securing the eyelet based on your material:
Eyelet pliers – beginner-friendly and affordable, good for light materials.
Eyelet press machine – professional tool for bulk work and heavy-duty materials.
Hammer and anvil setter – traditional method; place the eyelet on the base, then flatten it with a hammer.
4. Reinforcement Materials
For thin or stretchy fabrics, you may need reinforcement to prevent tearing:
Interfacing (fusible or sew-in) for fabric.
Washers or backing pieces that come with certain eyelets.
Adhesive patches for delicate or paper-based projects.
5. Safety Gear
A cutting mat to protect your table.
Protective gloves when working with leather or thick canvas.
How to Put Eyelets in Fabric, Leather, and Paper
A. How to Put Eyelets in Fabric
Eyelets in fabric are common for clothing, curtains, tote bags, and drawstrings.
Steps:
- Mark the spot where you want the eyelet using fabric chalk or a washable pen.
- Reinforce the area with fusible interfacing if the fabric is thin or stretchy.
- Punch a hole using a fabric punch tool (slightly smaller than the eyelet barrel).
- Insert the eyelet from the right side of the fabric.
- Place the eyelet setter (pliers or hammer with anvil) on the back side.
- Flatten the eyelet by squeezing with pliers or tapping with a hammer until secure.
B. How to Put Eyelets in Leather
Leather is thicker and tougher, so stronger tools are required. This method is used for belts, shoes, and handbags.
Steps:
- Mark the hole with a pen or scratch awl.
- Punch the hole using a rotary leather punch. Choose a punch size slightly smaller than the eyelet barrel.
- Insert the eyelet through the leather from the finished side.
- Add a washer on the back (for extra hold).
- Set the eyelet using a hammer and anvil setter or a press machine.
- Check stability by pulling lightly on the leather to ensure it won't slip out.
How to Put Eyelets in Paper
Eyelets are popular in scrapbooking, packaging, and DIY tags.
Steps:
- Mark the hole with a pencil where you want the eyelet.
- Punch the hole using a craft punch or crop-a-dile tool.
- Insert the eyelet into the hole from the front.
- Use an eyelet setter (manual tool, pliers, or crop-a-dile) to flatten the back.
- Secure by pressing gently until the eyelet grips the paper.
The installation methods for eyelets vary depending on the material. Select the appropriate tools and techniques based on the specific situation. If you require custom eyelets tailored to your brand, contact us immediately for professional customization solutions.
