DIY Projects: What Is a Grommet and How Do You Choose the Right One?
Do you like to try your hand at DIY or putter around the home finding new ways to fix something? You’re not alone. Over 70% of Americans prefer going the DIY route when it comes to making improvements.
If you love working on these types of projects or find yourself working with signage, it’s possible you’ve heard the word grommet before.
Perhaps you find yourself wondering why these are a popular option. Is there one that’s better than another depending on the project you’re working on?
If you’re wondering what is a grommet, get ready to learn more and discover which ones are the best to suit your needs.
The Answer to the Question What is a Grommet
Grommets are metal rings, small enough to fasten something together. They are typically used for all kinds of items that need to get hung, from signage to curtains.
The grommet provides a reinforced hole that allows something to hang, without tearing or ripping the material it’s attached to. If you’re looking for something that you want to hang but worry it will somehow tear or damage the surface, using a grommet provides a helpful solution.
If you’re trying to post signage, work on a project that involves hanging something, or just decorate your home, grommets are the answer to putting up something without fear of it falling or tearing.
Understand the Different Types of Grommets
Now that you know what a grommet is for, what type do you plan on using? There’s more than one type, and they vary based on what you need them for.
Plain Grommets: These are used for flags, curtains, or other lightweight materials. Since they aren’t the strongest type of grommet, they’re best reserved for things that aren’t heavy to avoid the risk of ripping.
Rubber Grommets: You can avoid fraying or tearing by choosing rubber grommets over metal ones. Since the rubber grommets don’t have teeth, there’s less chance of something getting ruined while it’s hanging. This type is also helpful for cable cords or other types of wiring.
Plastic Grommets: These come two ways: either they are made of plastic, or they’re originally metal and have a plastic coating. Either way, this is helpful if you’re worried about damaging the item you’re hanging.
Understanding How Grommets Get Installed
Many people choose to use a grommet gun or tool. These allow you to punch holes in the item you’re trying to hang while installing the grommet at the same time, much like a staple gun.
Industrial grommet machines offer another option. If you’re worried about getting a clean punch you can use one of these. It’s similar to using a sewing machine and ensures a professional look.
Learn More About DIY Projects
Now that you know what is a grommet, you can use one in your next project, and see how it makes a difference in a clean, professional look. When used properly, these can keep materials from fraying, while holding everything in place, as long as you know what grommet best suits your needs.
If you’re interested in more DIY yourself articles, we can help. Check out our tips on how to manage roof repair all on your own.