Flat or Standard Eyelets – Differences, Sizes and When to Choose Each

Polkom
Flat or Standard Eyelets – Differences, Sizes and When to Choose Each

Flat eyelets have an even, flat flange that barely rises above the material and gives a clean, minimalist look. Standard eyelets have a rounded flange and many more shank variants – long shank, narrow, double-sided, with an inner ring. If you are looking for a discreet detail and a smooth surface, choose a flat eyelet; if the product is thick, multi-layered or heavily loaded, the standard series will give you a more precise solution.

Below we compare the two series from our catalogue – KP flat eyelets and KS standard eyelets – by profile, size and application, with a table of the matching numbers side by side.

Flat or standard eyelets – the main differences

CriterionKP flat eyeletsKS standard eyelets
Flange profileflat, evenrounded, more voluminous
Outer diameter (D)from 6.1 to 48 mmfrom 7 to 48 mm
Number of articles1328
Typesstandard and wide (KP-06)standard, long shank, narrow, double-sided, with inner ring, domed, large hole
Constructioneyelet + metal or plastic washereyelet + metal or plastic washer
Materialswoven fabrics, denim, knitwear, leather, feltwoven fabrics, denim, knitwear, leather, faux leather, felt
Logoyes, on selected sizesyes, on selected sizes

Matching numbers – a size comparison

For most numbers, the two series have a similar outer diameter and hole, so the choice is primarily visual. Sizes in mm: D – outer diameter, H – shank height, d – inner hole.

No.Flat KPD / H / dStandard KSD / H / d
17KP-027.5 / 4.65 / 3.5KS-017 / 4.6 / 3.6
2KP-038.5 / 5.3 / 4.44KS-038.5 / 5.15 / 4.7
3KP-049.7 / 5.45 / 4.9KS-059.5 / 5.5 / 5
4KP-0511.7 / 6.7 / 4.9KS-0811.6 / 5.2 / 5.9
5KP-0715 / 5.4 / 7.38KS-1215 / 6.4 / 7.68
28KP-1025.05 / 6.9 / 13KS-2125 / 7.15 / 13
31KP-1231.51 / 7.85 / 17.2KS-2531.3 / 7.96 / 17.3
34KP-1348 / 7.3 / 27.6KS-2746 / 9.7 / 27.7

Two differences deserve attention. At No. 4, the flat KP-05 has a higher shank (6.7 vs 5.2 mm) but a smaller hole (4.9 vs 5.9 mm) – it is better suited to a thicker material and a thinner tie. At No. 34, the standard KS-27 has a much higher shank (9.7 vs 7.3 mm) and passes through thicker layers.

When to choose a flat eyelet

  • Minimalist design – shirts, blouses and denim shirts, where the metal accessories should be delicate.
  • A smooth surface – items that touch the skin or are worn under other garments: bodysuits, baby and children’s clothing, knitwear.
  • Very small holes – KP-01 (No. 16) with D 6.1 mm and a 3.2 mm hole is the smallest eyelet in our entire range, suitable for fine ties.
  • Intermediate sizes – numbers 25 (KP-09, D 21.55 mm) and 29 (KP-11, D 28 mm) exist only in the flat series.
  • A wider flange with a small hole – the wide KP-06 (D 13.1 mm, d 6 mm) distributes the load over a larger area.

When to choose a standard eyelet

  • Thick and multi-layered areas – the long-shank eyelets KS-04 (H 6.1 mm) and KS-06 (H 5.89 mm) pass through more layers at a small diameter.
  • Items that are also seen from the inside – the double-sided eyelets KS-07, KS-09 and KS-11 look the same on both sides.
  • Heavy load – eyelets with an inner ring (for example KS-13, KS-22, KS-28) are stiffer and more stable under frequent use.
  • A voluminous, classic look – the domed KS-16 (No. 24, D 19 mm) is an expressive accent on jackets and bags.
  • A large hole at a medium diameter – KS-26 (No. 32) has a 21.25 mm hole at D 31.8 mm.

How D, H and d are measured is explained in the article on eyelet sizes.

How the two series look on the product

At the same outer diameter, a flat eyelet looks smaller and more “graphic”, because the flange is even and reflects light more uniformly. A standard eyelet has a rounded edge that casts a shadow and looks more voluminous and more classic. The difference is especially visible with finishes such as gold, black nickel colour and antique brass. If you are undecided, order samples from both series in the same finish and set them on your material.

Setting

Both series are set with a dedicated die for each size – on a hand press, a lever press or an automatic machine. The die for a flat eyelet is not interchangeable with the die for a standard eyelet of the same number, because the flange profile is different. When switching from one series to the other, also check the dies available in the factory. You will find more tips in the Setting section.

Logo and finishes

On selected sizes in both series, a logo, lettering or pattern can be embossed on the flange. The flat flange of KP gives an even surface on which the logo reads clearly, while the rounded flange of KS gives the relief more volume. See the options on the Branding page. The finishes are common to both series – from nickel colour to gold, copper and gunmetal, all nickel free. Eyelets are often combined with rivets and cords in the same finish.

Flat and standard eyelets from Polkom

Polkom is a Bulgarian manufacturer based in Sofia with over 30 years of experience. In our catalogue you will find all eyelets with exact dimensions, and to order also with your logo, with delivery throughout Europe. Send an inquiry with the product and the material – we will send you samples from both series.

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FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Are flat eyelets weaker than standard ones?
Not necessarily. Strength depends primarily on the size, the thickness of the eyelet’s material, the washer and correct setting, not only on the flange profile. For heavy loads and multi-layered areas, however, the standard series offers more solutions – a long shank and an inner ring, which the flat series does not have.
Can the same die be used for a flat and a standard eyelet?
Usually not. Even at the same number, the flange profile and shank height differ, so the die must match the eyelet and washer exactly. With an unsuitable die, the flange deforms and the shank does not roll evenly. Before the production run, do a test setting on your material.
Which eyelet is better for children’s clothing?
For bodysuits, baby and children’s clothing, KP flat eyelets are often preferred, because the even flange does not protrude or press against the skin. The finish is also suitable – all our finishes are nickel free. Standard eyelets are also suitable, especially double-sided ones when the item is also seen from the inside.
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