So, What Exactly Is a Grommet?

By Naomi Myrick

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Construction
3. Materials
   1. Brass
   2. Stainless Steel
   3. Plastic
4. Size
5. Conclusion

Introduction

Tiny, but powerful rings, our grommets work in tandem with hems to help reinforce banner material. 

For example, on a customized banner from Banners.com, a heat-welded hem with grommets is typically added every 2-4 feet. 

These precious little rings help prevent the material edges from tearing while maintaining a clean aesthetic. This strengthening method adds to the lifespan of your banner. 

Construction 

Washers and grommets—not to be confused with Wallace and Gromit—work together to form what is known as an actual “grommet." The basic construction goes like this: 

1. A hole is punched into the banner material. 
2. The ring part, nubby-side up, is placed into the material hole. 
3. Then the washer is placed, rounded side up, over the ring nub. 

The washer and ring are then pounded together, in our case with an industrial machine, but construction can also be accomplished by hand using a grommet press. But whether it is forged by human hand or by machine, you now have a functional grommet. 

Materials

There are a variety of materials, but we offer plastic or metal grommets on all of our vinyl, mesh, and canvas banners. Our Fabric Banners use only the plastic material because they weigh less than the metal options and are therefore less straining on the polyester/nylon blended material.

Brass

We use #2 brass that has a low shine and is rust-resistant. The less-shiny nature of brass will not detract from your banner design.

Stainless Steel

The combination of iron, carbon, and chromium, or stainless steel can't be beat when it comes to strength. Steel also offers a subdued shininess, so it won’t distract from the banner images or text.

Plastic

In the case of a damaged plastic grommet that has developed sharp edges, plastic is less likely to rub on any bungees used to hang the banner.

Size

Measured from the interior of the ring, like pipes, all our grommets are approximately ½ inch. 

Conclusion:

Can grommets withstand the Pits of Mordor? Probably not, but they are durable and reinforce our banners well. There is strength in numbers, and they work best together, so we strongly recommend using all of the grommets that come with your product. 

Please visit our website for more information about all our finishing options.