What Is an Eyelet or Grommet Set?
Eyelet and grommet sets are prepared packages that combine selected components required to prepare an application hole and install an eyelet with the appropriate washer or backing component.
Some products contain only dies or hand tools, while other sets include eyelets, washers, punching dies, setting dies and a manually operated hand press. The correct set should therefore be selected according to the actual package contents, the application material and the equipment already available in the workshop.
Which Types of Eyelet Sets Are Available?
| Set Type |
General Contents |
When Should It Be Selected? |
| Die and hand-tool sets |
Setting dies and manually struck application tools |
For users who already have the required eyelets and application equipment |
| Starter die sets |
Matching punching and setting dies for one eyelet size |
For users who already have a compatible press |
| Manual-press starter sets |
Manual hand press with punching and setting dies |
For users who do not already have a compatible press |
| Trial kits |
Press, dies, eyelets and the washer options stated on the product page |
For sample preparation and size or washer comparison |
| Professional die sets |
Product-specific hardened punching and setting dies |
For repeated pleated-screen workshop applications |
| Complete professional kits |
Manual press, professional dies and higher quantities of consumable components |
For businesses starting repeated production with several sizes |
| Application-specific kits |
Eyelets and tools selected for tarpaulins, banners, curtains, bags or leather |
For users purchasing a set for a defined application |
Pleated Screen and Pleated Blind Eyelet Sets
Pleated screen eyelet sets are designed for preparing holes and installing compatible metal eyelets at cord and thread passage points on PVC strips used in pleated insect screen and pleated blind systems.
The category includes starter, manual-press, trial, professional and multi-size kits for the following eyelet classes:
| Eyelet Class |
Prepared PVC-Strip Hole |
Available Set Structures |
| 4–4.5 mm / 0.157–0.177 in |
4.5 mm / 0.177 in round hole |
Starter, manual-press and professional die sets |
| 5–5.5 mm / 0.197–0.217 in |
5 mm / 0.197 in round hole |
Starter, manual-press, trial and professional sets |
| 6–6.5 mm / 0.236–0.256 in |
6 mm / 0.236 in round hole |
Starter, manual-press, trial and professional sets |
The eyelet class and the punched-hole diameter are separate technical measurements. For example, an eyelet in the 5–5.5 mm / 0.197–0.217 in class may use a punch die that prepares a 5 mm / 0.197 in hole. The actual inner diameter, outer diameter and barrel height of the eyelet must also be checked.
Starter, Trial and Professional Sets
Starter sets
Starter sets combine the basic dies required for hole preparation and eyelet installation. Some starter sets include a manual hand press, while others contain only the punching and setting dies.
Trial kits
Trial kits add the eyelets and washer options stated on the product page to the press and dies. They are intended for preparing samples on the actual PVC strip or application material before additional consumable components are ordered.
Professional pleated-screen sets
In professional pleated-screen die sets, the punching and setting dies are manufactured from specially hardened, heat-treated steel. The manual press, eyelets and washers may be included or excluded depending on the selected product.
The term “professional” does not mean that every product in the category has the same contents. Always check the individual product page to confirm which dies, press and consumable components are supplied.
Tarpaulin, Banner, Curtain, Bag and Leather Eyelet Sets
In addition to pleated-screen products, this category includes eyelet and grommet sets prepared for other materials and applications.
- Tarpaulin and awning kits: Sets for larger eyelets used on tarpaulins, covers, tents and awnings
- Banner and sign kits: Eyelets and application tools for banners, printed signs and display materials
- Curtain and decoration kits: Larger curtain eyelets supplied with matching hole-preparation and setting equipment
- Bag and cover kits: Eyelet sets for bags, carrying cases, covers and similar products
- Leather, belt and footwear kits: Smaller eyelets and manual tools for leather and accessory applications
- Multi-size workshop kits: Sets containing several eyelet sizes and their related dies
How Should Press and Die-Only Sets Be Selected?
Choose a press-included set when a compatible manual hand press is not already available. These products may combine the press with the required punching and setting dies.
When a compatible press is already available, a die-only set may be more suitable. The die connection, thread structure and press compatibility must still be checked before ordering.
A manually struck hand tool is not the same as a manual hand press. Review the product title, technical specifications and verified package contents to determine which application method is included.
Are the Punching Die and Setting Die the Same Tool?
No. A punching die prepares the opening through which the eyelet barrel passes. A setting die closes the eyelet over the matching washer or backing component.
Punching and setting are completed with separate dies. Multi-size sets should contain a matching punching and setting die for each supported eyelet size.
Plastic and Metal Washer Options
Some pleated-screen kits include both plastic and metal washer options. These are alternative backing components and are not normally installed together behind the same eyelet.
Whether washers are included, which washer types are supplied and the quantity of each type must be checked on the individual product page.
Information to Check Before Selecting a Set
- The metric and imperial eyelet measurement
- The actual inner and outer diameters of the eyelet
- The barrel height and whether the barrel is standard or extended
- The hole diameter prepared by the punching die
- The compatibility of the setting die with the eyelet and washer
- Whether a press, manually struck tool or dies are included
- The quantity of eyelets and washers supplied
Eyelets carrying the same nominal measurement may not be compatible with the same setting die. Outer diameter, barrel height, face profile and washer construction must also match.
Related Product Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
Does every eyelet set include eyelets?
No. Some products contain only punching dies, setting dies or manually operated tools. Check the individual product page for the verified quantity of eyelets and washers.
Does every set include a manual hand press?
No. The category includes press-included sets as well as die-only, tool-only and starter sets without a press.
Which pleated-screen eyelet sizes are available?
The category includes sets for 4–4.5 mm / 0.157–0.177 in, 5–5.5 mm / 0.197–0.217 in and 6–6.5 mm / 0.236–0.256 in eyelet classes.
What is the difference between starter and professional pleated-screen die sets?
Professional pleated-screen sets use specially hardened, heat-treated punching and setting dies. The inclusion of the press, eyelets and washers depends on the selected product.
Can punching and eyelet setting be completed with one die?
No. One die prepares the application hole, while a separate setting die installs the eyelet.
Are plastic and metal washers installed together?
No. They are alternative backing components. Only the selected washer type is used for an individual eyelet installation.
Which set should I select if I already have a press?
A die-only punching and setting set may be suitable when the existing press connection is compatible. The eyelet dimensions, die connection and product structure must all be checked.