Eyelets vs Grommets: Complete Size Chart, Materials & Selection Guide
Eyelets vs grommets explained. Complete size chart, brass vs iron vs stainless steel comparison, and how to choose the right eyelet for your product.
Eyelets and grommets are ring-shaped metal accessories used to reinforce and protect holes in fabric, leather, canvas and other materials. From shoe lace holes to banner hanging points, from corset lacing to tent grommets — these small components play a critical role in product quality. This guide explains the difference between eyelets and grommets, compares materials, and provides a complete size chart to help you order with confidence.
- What Are Eyelets and Grommets?
- Eyelets vs Grommets — Key Differences
- Complete Size Chart
- Material Comparison: Brass vs Iron vs Stainless Steel
- Applications by Industry
- How to Choose the Right Eyelet
- Installation Methods
1. What Are Eyelets and Grommets?
An eyelet or grommet is a metal ring that lines a hole punched in fabric or leather. It serves two purposes:
- Protection: Prevents the hole from tearing, fraying or stretching
- Function: Creates a clean, reinforced passage for laces, cords, hooks or rope
2. Eyelets vs Grommets — Key Differences
| Feature | Eyelet | Grommet |
|---|---|---|
| Construction | Single piece — edge curls over | Two pieces — ring + washer |
| Typical Size | Small (2–8mm inner diameter) | Small to large (3–50mm) |
| Durability | Medium | High (washer adds strength) |
| Common Use | Shoes, corsets, garments | Tarps, banners, heavy canvas |
3. Eyelet & Grommet Size Chart
| Inner Diameter | Outer Diameter | Common Applications |
|---|---|---|
| 2 mm | 4 mm | Corsets, lingerie |
| 3.5 mm | 7 mm | Shoe lace holes |
| 5 mm | 10 mm | Most popular — general use |
| 8 mm | 14 mm | Bags, belts |
| 10–12 mm | 18–20 mm | Tarps, banners, canvas |
| 40–50 mm | 55–65 mm | Industrial, marine |
4. Material Options
Brass Eyelets
The gold standard for quality. Naturally corrosion-resistant, excellent plating adhesion. The preferred choice for export products, marine and outdoor applications.
Iron Eyelets
Budget-friendly option. Requires plating (nickel, gold, antique). Common in domestic market products. Susceptible to moisture damage.
Stainless Steel Eyelets
Maximum durability. Resistant to salt water, chemicals and UV. The only choice for marine, medical and heavy-duty outdoor applications.
5. Applications by Industry
- Footwear: Lace holes, ventilation eyelets, boot speed hooks
- Bags & Leather Goods: Strap pass-through, decorative accents
- Corsets & Lingerie: Lacing systems, adjustable closures
- Tarps & Awnings: Rope and hook attachment points
- Banners & Signage: Hanging and tensioning points
- Marine: Sails, boat covers, life jackets
6. How to Choose the Right Eyelet
- Define the purpose: Decorative or functional?
- Measure material thickness: Eyelet barrel length must match your material
- Calculate inner diameter: What will pass through? (lace, cord, hook, rope)
- Assess environment: Moisture, salt, chemical exposure?
- Select plating and color: Match your product design
- Test samples: Always order samples before bulk production
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