What is the Difference Between Eyelets and Grommets?

Eyelets and grommets are both used to reinforce holes in fabric, but they have some differences in terms of size, intended purpose, and installation method:

1. Size: Eyelets are small and delicate, while grommets are larger and more robust.
2. Intended Purpose: Eyelets are meant to be functional, whereas grommets are more for decoration. However, both can be used for various purposes depending on the project.
3. Installation Method: Grommets are installed from the inside of the fabric, while eyelets are installed from the outside. This difference in installation can affect the finished product.
4. Flange Thickness: The flange on an eyelet is very thin, while the flange on a grommet is thicker.
5. Visibility: Grommets have a cleaner look because there are no visible holes on the outside of the fabric, while eyelets have a small hole on the outside that can be seen.

In general, use a plain grommet for small projects like flags, awnings, or curtains. For higher loads or at the corners of large canvas pieces or sails, use an eyelet grommet. Eyelets are often used to finish off the opening for a drawstring casing or for lacing on various parts of a garment. The choice between eyelets and grommets depends on the specific requirements of your project.

Comparative Table: Eyelets vs Grommets

Eyelets and grommets are both used to strengthen holes in fabric, but they have different characteristics and are used for different purposes. Here is a table summarizing their differences:

In summary, eyelets are generally smaller and more delicate, while grommets are larger and more robust. Eyelets are installed from the outside of the fabric and don't require a washer, while grommets are installed from the inside and usually require a washer. Grommets typically have longer flange lengths and are used for heavy-duty applications, whereas eyelets are used for lighter applications.