How to Insert Eyelets into Fabric

Eyelets create reinforced openings in fabric that are perfect for lacing, drawstrings, hanging loops, or decorative elements. With the right tools and technique, you can achieve professional-looking results on corsets, bags, belts, and more. Follow this guide to insert durable, clean-looking eyelets every time.

What You'll Need

• Eyelets in your desired size and color
• Eyelet setting tool or eyelet pliers
• Hammer (if using a setting tool instead of pliers)
• Sharp scissors or an awl
• Marking pen or chalk
• Ruler or measuring tape
• Interfacing (optional, for reinforcement)
• Scrap wood or cutting mat for working surface

Step 1: Prepare Your Fabric

1. Reinforce the Area
   • Apply interfacing to the wrong side of the fabric where eyelets will be placed
   • For heavy-duty applications, consider using an additional layer of fabric
2. Mark Eyelet Placement
   • Use a ruler and marking tool to precisely mark each eyelet location
   • For functional eyelets (like corset lacing), space them 1-1.5" apart
   • Double-check that marks are aligned and evenly spaced

Step 2: Create Holes and Set Eyelets

1. Make the Openings
   • Use sharp scissors or an awl to create a small hole at each marked spot
   • The hole should be slightly smaller than your eyelet size
   • Avoid making the hole too large, which will cause the eyelet to slip
2. Insert the Eyelet
   • Push the eyelet through the hole from the right side of the fabric
   • Ensure the flange (wider part) sits flat against the fabric surface
   • For two-piece eyelets, position the washer on the back side

Step 3: Secure the Eyelets

1. Set Up Your Tool
   • Place the eyelet on the setting tool's anvil (the concave base)
   • Position the setting tool punch (the convex part) over the eyelet
2. Set the Eyelet
   • Strike the punch firmly with a hammer, or squeeze hard if using pliers
   • This will roll and crimp the eyelet to secure it to the fabric
   • Check that the eyelet is tight and evenly crimped all around

Final Tips for Perfect Eyelets

• Test your technique on scrap fabric before working on your project
• For metallic eyelets on thick fabric, consider pre-punching holes with a hole punch
• When working with multiple eyelets, use a template to ensure consistent placement
• Add a facing to the wrong side of thin fabrics for additional support
• For decorative eyelets, experiment with contrasting colors against your fabric
• Clean any fabric fibers from the inside of set eyelets for a professional finish