Mastering the Art of Leathercraft: Using Grommets and Grommet Tools for Leather Projects

Leather is one of the most durable fabrics around, which is why it takes special tools to work with when you use it in a DIY crafting or sewing project. If you want to add holes to your leather pieces for functionality or decoration, you’ll need to rely on grommets and grommet tools.

Types of Grommets and Grommet Tools to Use for Leather

If you’ve never worked with leather before, it can be difficult to know where to begin when it comes to grommets and grommet tools.

Essentially, grommets and washers are metal reinforcements for both sides of holes. Grommets and washers allow you to create intentional, useable holes in your projects without worrying about them ripping or expanding over time. Grommet tools are simply the items that make applying grommets and washers to your projects easy.

Here are some of the best grommets and washers for your leather projects.

Plain Grommets With Plain Washers

Plain grommets and plain washers are the most standard types of grommets and washers. They look simple and neat and provide reliable reinforcement for holes in leather.

You can choose stainless steel or brass as the base, and if you choose brass, you can pick from various finishes. Plain grommets and plain washers come in multiple sizes, so you can choose the size that works for your project. They are often used to reinforce belts, equestrian accessories, and handbags.

Plain Grommets With Teeth Washers

When you combine a plain grommet with a teeth washer, you can bear more weight with your item. That’s because teeth washers dig into the grommet more deeply, preventing any spinning once applied with grommet tools. This enables them to withstand much more heavy use.

Most teeth washers will be made of brass, and your grommet material should match your washer material. This combination works well with tool belts, work suspenders, work aprons, tool vests, and saddles. Like plain grommets and washers, teeth washers come in multiple sizes to suit a variety of leather items.

Rolled-Rim Grommets With Spur Washers

Rolled-rim grommets can provide an even more reliable hold than plain grommets, making them a good fit for heavy-duty leather items and garments that go through a lot of wear and tear.

Additionally, spur washers have a spiked interior similar to teeth washers, making it possible for them to dig more deeply into the leather and ensure a strong hold. Combining the two lets you use your weight-bearing leather garment without the holes ripping or stretching.

Since this combination of grommet and washer is known for its extra durability, it’s often used for heavy-duty work suspenders, tool rigs, work belts, and similar garments. Rolled-rim grommets and spur washers are available in stainless steel or brass and come in various sizes.

Self-Piercing Grommets With Self-Piercing Washers

The primary difference between self-piercing grommets and washers and other types of grommets and washers is the time saved.

While most grommets and washers require special grommet tools for application, self-piercing grommets and washers use a handheld tool that allows the user to simultaneously press the grommet and washer into place.

If you need to apply a grommet and washer fast, the self-piercing variety is a good option and stands up reasonably well against wear and tear. You can also purchase extra long self-piercing grommets if you’re working with especially thick leather.

These items can be used for a variety of tool holders and equestrian accessories. Still, any garment that is weight-bearing or goes through heavy wear should use a more durable grommet and washer combination. Self-piercing washers and grommets make an easy, low-cost choice for holes in leather that are more aesthetic than functional.

Shop High-Quality Grommets and Grommet Tools at GoldStar Tool

Ready to learn more about grommets, grommet tools, and the many details of leathercraft? We’ve got you covered at GoldStar Tool with all the quality products you need at great prices. Check us out online to find grommet tools for your next project.