Eyelets and grommets

[CampRobber]

What is the difference between an eyelet and a grommet?

[Former_Member]

I could be wrong about this, but I think it is the size. Anything 1/4" and smaller is an eyelet. Larger then that and it is a grommet. That's the conclusion I can to after lots online shopping for such things. If I am wrong, I would love to know the right answer.

[CampRobber]

When you say 1/4", that is the hole size, not the overall diameter of the object in question?

[Former_Member]

When I think of an eyelet, I think of something lightweight such as eyelet lace.

When I think of a grommet I'm generally looking for something fairly sturdy such as something to put in a piece of denim or a tarpaulin.

But both terms are used interchangibly.

[ExpressionsInLeather]

My interpretation is that an eyelet is smaller and designed for lightweight fabrics. You "set" it by bending down the back against the material.

A grommet is larger and comes in two pieces. The top part looks like a large eyelet but there is a bottom ring that once installed makes grommet look the same from both sides. It is usually used on much heavier material or leather. They are available in steel or brass and come in numbered sizes usually from #0 to about #4. It takes a different setter to install the two piece grommets.

[Former_Member]

I like the definition that a grommet is in two pieces. I have seen leather eyelets that are for use on thick material but they are made of two parts. Maybe seller call their items both, because people do not know the difference? The sellers want the items to come up in searches, so they tag with everything.

In general, I think the size of a grommet or eyelet refers to the inner hole.

[Redthreaded]

My understanding is that an eyelet is typically one-piece, and grommets are two, they have washer on the back and the end result is much smoother and sturdier. Although I have seen the two-piece referred to as eyelets, as well. It isn't really a reference to size...you can get #00 grommets which are pretty small. I use them in corsets. http://corsetmaking.com/category/grommets-washers.html

[LeatherheadOriginals]

I use them in my work all the time. Eyelet generally is the small 1/8" to 1/4" hole size without back ring. Grommets always tend to have the backer ring, and range 3/16"(#00) to 7/8" hole size. #00 and #0(1/4" hole) are the ones I use most frequently in making leather hats.