Eyelets & Grommets

About Eyelets & Grommets

Eyelets and grommets are essential hardware components used to reinforce holes in fabric, leather, canvas, tarpaulin, vinyl, and plastic sheeting. These small but vital fastening solutions provide a durable, professional finish whilst preventing tearing and fraying around openings. Whether you're working on heavy-duty tarpaulins, canvas awnings, banner signage, or leather goods, quality eyelets and grommets ensure your work withstands regular use and harsh weather conditions.

MyToolShed.co.uk stocks a comprehensive range of eyelets and grommets from trusted brands including Draper and Rapid, alongside the tools needed to install them correctly. Our selection includes complete eyelet kits containing everything required to get started, plus spare eyelets and grommets available in various sizes and materials such as brass, aluminium, and steel. These components are designed for both professional tradespeople requiring reliable fastening solutions on site and DIY enthusiasts tackling home improvement or craft projects.

Applications

Eyelets and grommets are versatile fastening solutions used across numerous trades and industries:

• Sign Makers and Banner Installers: Creating fixing points in vinyl banners, PVC signage, and mesh displays for secure outdoor mounting
• Canvas and Sailmakers: Reinforcing awnings, boat covers, tarpaulins, and tonneau covers for vehicles
• Upholsterers: Adding decorative and functional details to furniture, automotive interiors, and marine upholstery
• Groundworkers and Landscapers: Securing tarpaulins, scaffold sheeting, and temporary weather protection on site
• Leatherworkers: Creating lacing holes in belts, bags, footwear, and leather goods
• Stage and Event Technicians: Installing backdrops, curtains, and temporary structures requiring secure tie-down points
• Agricultural Workers: Repairing and reinforcing covers, protective sheeting, and storage bags

Choosing The Right Eyelets & Grommets

Material Thickness: Ensure your chosen eyelets are suitable for the thickness of material you're working with. Thinner fabrics require smaller, lighter-duty eyelets, whilst heavy canvas or tarpaulin needs larger, more robust grommets with deeper flanges to grip securely.

Internal Diameter: Determine what needs to pass through the eyelet—whether cord, rope, bungee, or hooks. Common sizes range from 3mm for light craft work up to 20mm or more for heavy-duty applications. Add 2-3mm clearance for ease of use.

Material Construction: Brass eyelets offer excellent corrosion resistance for outdoor and marine environments. Aluminium grommets provide lightweight weather resistance ideal for banners and signage. Steel options offer maximum strength for heavy-load applications.

Kit or Components: Complete kits like the Draper GK12 include setting tools, punches, and a selection of eyelets—perfect for occasional users. Professional tradespeople may prefer bulk quantities of individual components for specific sizes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between an eyelet and a grommet?

An eyelet is typically a single-piece component with a flange on one side that rolls over the material. A grommet is a two-piece system with a ring and separate washer that sandwiches the material between them, providing superior strength and a finished appearance on both sides.

Can I install eyelets without a special tool?

A proper eyelet setting tool ensures consistent, professional results and prevents damage to both the eyelet and your material. MyToolShed.co.uk offers complete kits including all necessary installation tools at affordable prices, making them worthwhile even for occasional use.

How many eyelets do I need for a tarpaulin?

Space eyelets every 300-500mm around the perimeter for standard applications. Heavy-duty tarpaulins under tension or in exposed locations benefit from closer spacing of 200-300mm. Always place eyelets at corners and at least 25-50mm from the material edge to prevent tearing.