Grommet Application Dies and Setting Tools

What Are Eyelet Setting Dies and Application Tools?

Eyelet setting dies and application tools are used to install eyelets, grommets, caps and washer-supported metal accessories onto fabric, leather, faux leather, bags, shoes, tarpaulin, awnings, tents, banners, vinyl prints and technical textile surfaces. This category includes not only standard eyelet setting dies, but also eyelet punching dies, standard setting tools, reverse dies, self-piercing eyelet setting dies, oval eyelet dies, cap application dies and eyelet die systems compatible with different press machines.

Choosing the correct die is essential for clean and consistent eyelet application. The eyelet number, inner diameter, outer diameter, barrel height, washer structure, material type and machine system should be checked together before selecting a setting die.

Difference Between Eyelet Punching Dies, Standard Setting Tools and Reverse Dies

In simple terms, a punching die makes the hole, a standard setting tool installs the eyelet, a reverse die is used for special application direction, and a self-piercing setting die can support both piercing and setting for compatible eyelet systems.

Eyelet Number Guide for Die Selection

Eyelet dies should not be selected only by the eyelet number. Eyelets with the same number may have different inner diameters, outer diameters, barrel heights, washer structures and material types. Still, eyelet numbers can be used as a practical starting point for selection.

When Should a Standard Eyelet Setting Tool Be Used?

A standard eyelet setting tool is used to install the eyelet and washer into a pre-punched hole. In this system, the hole is prepared first, the eyelet is placed into the material, and then the setting tool closes the eyelet into position.

Standard setting tools are the most common die group for textile, leather, bag, footwear, tarpaulin and technical textile applications. The eyelet number, inner diameter, barrel height and washer structure directly affect the correct setting tool selection.

What Is a Reverse Die?

A reverse die is a special die used when the eyelet needs to close from a different direction or when the reverse side of the product must have a more controlled finish.

In some eyelet systems, a reverse die may be required to create a cleaner back-side form or to support the correct application direction in self-piercing systems. Die direction can be especially important in technical textiles, tarpaulin, bags and special accessory production.

What Is a Self-Piercing Eyelet Setting Die?

A self-piercing eyelet setting die is used with compatible eyelet systems where the eyelet can pierce the material and close during the same application. In this structure, the cutting or piercing part of the eyelet can pass through the surface during installation.

This system can be practical for suitable textile, vinyl, faux leather and some technical fabric surfaces. However, for thick tarpaulin, multi-layer leather or heavy technical textiles, using a separate punching die may provide a more controlled result.

No. 24 Eyelet Dies

No. 24 eyelet dies are among the most commonly requested die groups. This size is used in textiles, bags, leather, tarpaulin and many general-purpose applications. However, the term “No. 24” alone is not enough for correct die selection.

The real inner diameter may differ between standard No. 24 eyelets and stainless steel No. 24 eyelets. For this reason, the actual measurement, material, barrel height and setting system should be evaluated together before selecting the die.

No. 28 Self-Piercing Eyelet Dies

No. 28 eyelets can be used in tarpaulin, awning, tent and technical textile applications. Some No. 28 eyelet systems may have a self-piercing structure. In that case, a self-piercing eyelet die or reverse die may be required instead of a standard setting tool.

For No. 28 self-piercing eyelet applications, material thickness, the cutting barrel structure of the eyelet, washer use and press system should be checked carefully.

Oval Eyelet Dies

Oval eyelets have a different shape from standard round eyelets. Therefore, round eyelet dies should not be used for oval eyelets. A special oval eyelet die is required to close the oval form correctly without deforming it.

Oval eyelets can be used in 1 cm, 1.5 cm, 2 cm, 2.5 cm and 3 cm sizes. They are commonly used in tarpaulin, tents, shade systems, caravan equipment, marine products and technical textile applications. Related products can be reviewed under the oval eyelets category.

Stainless Steel Eyelet Dies

Stainless steel eyelets can behave differently from brass or steel eyelets during setting. Due to material hardness, a standard die may not always provide the same result.

When selecting a die for stainless steel eyelets, real inner diameter, outer diameter, barrel height, washer structure and press system should be checked together. Related products can be reviewed under the stainless steel eyelets category.

Tarpaulin, Awning and Tent Applications

In tarpaulin, awning and tent applications, eyelets may be exposed to higher pulling forces. For this reason, not only the eyelet number but also surface thickness, washer structure and barrel height are important.

Especially for No. 28, No. 30, No. 32, No. 34 and No. 66 eyelet systems, hole diameter, barrel height, washer form and press power should be evaluated together.

Choosing Eyelet Dies by Press System

Hand-Setting Eyelet Dies

Hand-setting dies can be used for low-volume applications, sample production and small workshops. Since the application force depends on the user, they may not always provide the same consistency in mass production.

Eyelet Dies Compatible with Hand Presses

Hand presses are widely used manual press systems in workshops. Compatible die connection should be checked before using them for eyelets, snaps, rivets and similar accessories.

Eyelet Dies Compatible with Impact Presses

Impact presses can be preferred by workshops that need a more controlled application. Correct die selection and proper pressure are important for balanced eyelet closing.

Eyelet Dies Compatible with Electric and Pneumatic Machines

Electric and pneumatic machines are preferred for high-volume production. In these systems, die connection size, machine standard and eyelet size should be compatible. For mass production systems, the mounting machines and hand tools category can be reviewed.

Common Mistakes in Eyelet Application

• Selecting a die only by eyelet number
• Confusing a standard die with a self-piercing die
• Using a standard setting tool where a reverse die is required
• Thinking that punching dies and setting tools are the same product
• Using a round die for oval eyelets
• Using a standard die for stainless steel eyelets without checking real measurements
• Punching the hole too large or too small
• Ignoring barrel height
• Placing the washer in the wrong direction
• Using an incompatible press system

Eyelet Die Buying Guide

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a standard eyelet setting tool do?

It is used to set the eyelet and washer into a pre-punched hole.

What is a reverse die?

A reverse die is used when the eyelet needs to close in a special direction or when the back-side form needs to be controlled.

What is a self-piercing eyelet setting die?

It is a die that supports piercing and setting in the same application for compatible self-piercing eyelet systems.

Are punching dies and setting tools the same?

No. A punching die makes the hole, while a setting tool installs the eyelet.

Which die is required for No. 24 eyelets?

The real inner diameter, outer diameter and barrel height should be checked. Standard and stainless steel No. 24 eyelets may require different die compatibility.

Which die is used for No. 28 self-piercing eyelets?

A self-piercing compatible reverse die or special die may be required instead of a standard setting tool.

Which tool is required for No. 66 eyelets?

For No. 66 tarpaulin eyelets, large eyelet size, washer, hole diameter and a strong press system should be evaluated together.

Can oval eyelets be applied with a standard round die?

No. Oval eyelets require a special oval die.

Why does an eyelet close unevenly?

It may happen because of an incorrect die, wrong hole diameter, incompatible press system or uneven pressure.

Why does an eyelet stay loose?

The hole may be too large, the die may be incompatible, or the applied pressure may be insufficient.