Eyelets and rivets are often confused because both are small metal parts fixed by pressure rather than sewing. The difference between them is fundamental, though: an eyelet forms and reinforces a hole, while a rivet joins and strengthens layers of fabric without leaving an opening. Pick the wrong one and your piece either won't work as intended or will look unfinished. Here's how to tell them apart and when to use each.
What is an eyelet?
An eyelet (or grommet) is a metal ring with a barrel that goes into a pre-punched hole and is rolled over on the back, often onto a washer. Its job is to protect the edge of the hole from tearing and fraying. Something passes through it – a cord, lace, ring, rope or curtain pole.
- Hollow centre – the hole stays open.
- Used for shoelaces, hoods, belts, bags, curtains and banners.
- Available in round, flat and oval shapes.
Metal eyelets PE 0002 flat
CAP RIVER Luxury Metal Rivets – 12.5 mm Gun Metal
Metal eyelets PE 0003 – ovalWhat is a rivet?
A rivet has two parts – a cap and a post base – that are pressed together through the fabric. It leaves no opening; instead it locks the layers together at a single point. The classic example is the copper rivets on the corners of jeans pockets, where stitching alone would eventually give way.
- No hole – the cap is solid and often decorative.
- Used to reinforce pockets, bag handles, straps and workwear.
- Sized by cap diameter, for example 5, 7, 12.5 or 13 mm.
Side-by-side comparison
| Feature | Eyelet | Rivet |
|---|---|---|
| Main purpose | Reinforces a hole | Joins and reinforces layers |
| Open centre | Yes | No |
| Parts | Eyelet + washer (or eyelet only) | Cap + base |
| Typical use | Cords, laces, curtains | Denim, bags, straps |
| Sizing | Number or outer x inner diameter | Cap diameter |
When to choose an eyelet and when a rivet
- Does something need to pass through the fabric? Choose an eyelet – for a hoodie drawstring, sneaker laces or a backpack clip.
- Do you need to secure a seam or corner? Choose a rivet. Pocket corners, the points where handles attach to a bag and strap ends are all reinforced with rivets.
- Just after a decorative accent? Both work. Decorative rivets in antique nickel or gunmetal give an industrial look, while eyelets with a wider flange create a rhythm along an edge.
The two are often combined on one item – a backpack with eyelets for the drawcord and rivets at the base of the handles, for instance. In that case, keep the metal colour the same so the piece looks cohesive.
Setting tools
Both eyelets and rivets are set with a die and punch matched to their size, either by hand with a hammer or with a press. The tools are not interchangeable: an eyelet die is shaped to flare the barrel outwards, while a rivet die presses the cap onto the base. For larger runs, a machine such as the DEP2K from our accessories range works with interchangeable tooling.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a rivet instead of an eyelet?
No – a rivet has no hole. If a cord or lace has to pass through the fabric, you need an eyelet.
Is a snap fastener a rivet?
Not quite. A snap is also fixed by pressure, but its parts are designed to open and close. A rivet is a permanent join.
Are rivets suitable for thin fabrics?
Generally not. Rivets are designed for denim, leather and heavy fabrics. On lighter material, reinforce the spot from the inside with a patch of fabric or interfacing.
Explore our decorative rivets and metal eyelets at Bul-tex and pick the right hardware for your project.
