Manufacturer · Fashion & Home Accessories
Eyelet pliers are the simplest tool – suitable for small eyelets and small quantities, for example in a workroom or for repairs. For larger eyelets and thicker materials, a hand setter (anvil and punch) is used with a hammer, and in series production a hand or pneumatic press with dies for the specific size. The tool must always correspond to the eyelet size.
Types of eyelet tools
Eyelet pliers
Eyelet pliers look like ordinary pliers but have two jaws: one with a pin that goes into the eyelet barrel, the other with a recess for the washer. When squeezed, the pin spreads the barrel and rolls it over. Some models also have a revolving head with punches for holes of different diameters.
- Advantages: low cost, portability, no hammer or stable table needed.
- Disadvantages: suitable mainly for small eyelets and thin fabrics; with many pieces the hand gets tired and the result is less even.
Hand setter with hammer
The set includes a hollow punch for the hole, an anvil (lower die with a recess for the flange) and a setter (upper tool) that is struck with a hammer. This is the most common solution for workrooms, leather workshops and for setting larger eyelets.
- Advantages: works with large and small sizes, inexpensive, reliable.
- Disadvantages: requires a hard base, is noisy, and quality depends on the force and accuracy of the blow.
Hand (bench) press
The press is mounted on a table and operated with a lever. Interchangeable dies – upper and lower – are fitted for the specific type and size of eyelet. The same press can set eyelets, snap buttons and rivets if you have the corresponding dies.
- Advantages: even results, less fatigue, faster work.
- Disadvantages: higher initial investment; dies are needed for each size.
Pneumatic and automatic machine
Garment and footwear factories use machines with pneumatic or electric drive, often with automatic feeding of eyelets and washers. The operator only positions the piece. They are justified for large runs.
Tool comparison
| Tool | Volume | Eyelet sizes | Consistency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pliers | Single pieces | Small | Depends on the hand |
| Hand setter with hammer | Small runs | Small to large | Medium |
| Hand press | Small and medium runs | According to the dies | High |
| Automatic machine | Series production | According to the setup | Very high |
How to choose eyelet pliers for clothing
If you are looking for eyelet pliers for clothing, pay attention to the following:
- The eyelet size they are designed for. Most pliers work with small eyelets suitable for sweatshirts, children's clothing and decorative holes.
- Built-in punches. It is convenient if the pliers also have a punch for the hole.
- Strength of the hinge. Cheap pliers loosen quickly and start setting eyelets crookedly.
- Compatibility. Eyelets from different manufacturers differ in barrel height and diameter. Test the pliers with the eyelets you will be using.
Dies – the key to a good result
Whether you work with a hand setter or a press, the die must match the specific eyelet. The lower die holds the flange without scratching or crushing it, and the upper die spreads the barrel into the right shape. If the die is for a larger size, the barrel spreads unevenly. If it is for a smaller size, the eyelet deforms or cracks.
When ordering eyelets wholesale, it is a good idea to check with the manufacturer which dies suit the style – this way you avoid defects at the start of production.
Protecting the finish when setting
With decorative eyelets in polished, gold-tone or coloured finishes, the tool can leave marks. To avoid them:
- use dies with a smooth, undamaged surface;
- do not strike more than necessary;
- on a press, adjust the stroke so that it does not crush the flange;
- do a test on a piece of the same material.
One tool for several types of accessories
A hand press with interchangeable dies is a versatile tool for a factory: it sets eyelets, snap buttons, rivets and metal denim buttons. If your production uses several of these accessories, the investment in a press pays off faster.
Tool maintenance
A good result also depends on the condition of the tool. Punches become blunt over time and start tearing instead of cutting a clean circle – then the edge of the hole stays frayed and the eyelet does not sit flush. Anvils and dies must be protected from knocks and rust, because every scratch on them is imprinted on the eyelet flange. Punching pads (rubber or polyethylene) are replaced when their surface is full of holes. On presses, check the stroke and the tightness of the dies regularly. These simple measures reduce defects and extend the life of the tools, especially in a factory where thousands of eyelets are set.
Common mistakes
- Using pliers for large eyelets or thick canvas.
- Working on a soft base – the blow is absorbed and the barrel does not roll over.
- Dies unsuitable for the specific eyelet style.
- No trial setting before the production run.
Eyelets and advice from Polkom
Polkom is a Bulgarian manufacturer of accessories for fashion, furniture, footwear and bags with over 30 years of experience. Besides eyelets in various sizes and finishes, we offer advice on choosing the right style and a service for attaching accessories. Send an inquiry with the type of material and the quantity, and we will help you choose the eyelet and the setting method.
