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Metal eyelets are small reinforcing pieces inserted into holes made in materials such as leather, fabric, cardboard or plastic to protect the edge of the hole, distribute mechanical stress and improve appearance. Although humble, they are essential in dozens of industrial applications.
What are metal eyelets and what are they for?
A metal eyelet is essentially a tubular cylinder with a flared head at each end (or with a companion washer) that, once pressed onto a material, traps it firmly and creates a clean reinforced opening. Its functions are:
- Protection: Prevents fabric or material edges from fraying or tearing.
- Reinforcement: Distributes pulling forces over a wider area.
- Aesthetics: Provides a professional finish to the hole.
- Function: Allows passage of cord, rod, screw, ring, etc.
Types of metal eyelets by shape
Round eyelets
The most common and versatile. Used in textiles, footwear, leather goods, awnings, signage and industrial applications.
Hexagonal eyelets
The hexagonal shape on the outer ring offers a decorative finish and prevents rotation. Common in high-end leather goods and quality footwear.
Oval eyelets
For applications requiring a longer non-round opening: belts, sails, certain marine applications.
Flat-head eyelets
With a discreet, low-profile outer ring. Ideal where minimal visual impact is desired.
Reversible eyelets
Finished on both sides, perfect for materials seen from both faces (room dividers, double-sided banners).
Available materials
- Brass: Premium corrosion resistance, professional finish.
- Steel: High mechanical strength, mid-range price.
- Stainless steel: Maximum durability, food and marine grade.
- Aluminium: Lightweight and economical, for less demanding applications.
Industrial sizes and applications
| Sector | Typical sizes | Recommended material |
|---|---|---|
| Industrial textiles | 4-20 mm | Brass, steel |
| Quality footwear | 3-6 mm | Brass |
| Leather goods | 5-10 mm | Brass |
| Marine industry | 8-30 mm | Stainless steel |
| Signage and advertising | 10-14 mm | Aluminium, brass |
| Stationery / filing | 4-8 mm | Steel |
| Automotive | 5-15 mm | Steel, stainless |
| Bookbinding | 3-6 mm | Brass, nickel |
Industrial applications of metal eyelets
Textile sector
From workwear and footwear to upholstery and curtains, metal eyelets are present in countless textile products to reinforce holes for laces, drawstrings or fastenings.
Marine and outdoor
Sails, awnings, marine tarps and outdoor furniture covers depend on stainless steel eyelets to withstand salinity and UV.
Signage and advertising
Vinyl banners, PVC tarps and outdoor signs use eyelets to hang and tension them.
Leather goods and footwear
Belts, bags, backpacks and shoes use small decorative or functional metal eyelets.
Bookbinding and stationery
Folders, ring binders and other office products use eyelets to reinforce holes.
Automotive and packaging
Reinforced lashing points and load-securing systems often include industrial eyelets.
How to choose metal eyelets for industrial applications
- Define the environment: Indoor, outdoor, marine, food contact, high temperature?
- Calculate the load: What mechanical force will the eyelet support?
- Material thickness: Determines the necessary barrel length.
- Compliance: Industrial projects may require DIN-standard parts.
- Volume: Working with a direct manufacturer cuts unit cost on large orders.
Direct industrial supply
At Industria Acosta Pramon, eyelet manufacturers since 1947, we supply metal eyelets in volume for sectors including textiles, footwear, leather goods, marine, signage and automotive. Permanent stock in all standard sizes plus the ability to manufacture custom dimensions for specific projects. Contact us for a no-commitment quote.
