Español
Making curtains with eyelets at home or in a workshop can deliver very professional results — provided you use the right materials. One of the most useful materials for that is eyelet tape (or grommet tape): a textile band that, used together with metal eyelets, simplifies installation, reinforces the upper edge of the curtain and ensures perfectly aligned, uniform openings.
What is eyelet tape for curtains?
Eyelet tape — also called eyelet band — is a fabric strip designed to be sewn or applied with iron-on adhesive to the top edge of a curtain. Most types come with pre-marked positions or pre-cut holes for fitting the eyelets, making the work much easier and more precise.
Its main functions are:
- Reinforce the fabric: The tape adds thickness and strength to the curtain edge, preventing fabric tears.
- Ease installation: The marked or pre-drilled positions ensure correct eyelet spacing.
- Provide a clean finish: The tape hides imperfections and keeps the curtain’s top edge straight.
- Compatibility with hardware: Pre-set hole sizes match standard eyelet diameters.
Types of eyelet tape
Iron-on eyelet tape
The most popular for DIY because it does not require sewing. Just position, iron, and the tape fuses to the fabric. Ideal for medium and lightweight curtains.
Sewn eyelet tape
Recommended for heavy-duty curtains, theatres, hotels and industrial applications. Provides maximum durability and resists frequent washing better than iron-on tape.
Reinforced eyelet tape
Includes additional polymer or fibreglass layers for extreme applications: blackout curtains, very heavy fabrics or oversized eyelets.
Standard sizes
| Tape width | Inner eyelet hole | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| 50 mm | 25 mm | Sheers and lightweight curtains |
| 70 mm | 35 mm | Standard living room curtains |
| 80 mm | 40 mm | Heavy curtains, blackout |
| 100 mm | 50 mm | Theatre/hotel curtains, decorative |
How to use eyelet tape
Step 1 — Measure and cut
Cut a piece of tape the same width as the finished curtain plus 2 cm on each side for the side hem.
Step 2 — Fix the tape
For iron-on tape: place the tape on the inside of the top edge with adhesive facing down, and iron with a damp cloth at medium-high temperature for 30 seconds per zone. For sewn tape: sew along both edges with reinforced stitching.
Step 3 — Mark the holes
Most tapes come with pre-marked centres. If not, mark the centre of each eyelet evenly along the tape.
Step 4 — Punch the fabric
Use a hole punch matched to the eyelet’s inner diameter. Punch through both the tape and the curtain at the same time.
Step 5 — Fit the eyelets
Place each eyelet with its washer and press firmly with a manual or bench tool.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Tape too narrow: Always pick a tape wider than the eyelet diameter for full reinforcement.
- Poor adhesion (iron-on): Insufficient temperature or time gives weak bonding.
- Misaligned holes: Take time to mark each centre carefully.
- Cheap tape: Low-cost tapes may not survive the first wash.
Eyelet tape supply
As eyelet manufacturers, at Industria Acosta Pramon we offer matched solutions: metal eyelets and compatible eyelet tape with guaranteed quality. Contact us for advice on size and tape type for your project.
