Adding eyelets (grommets) on stretchy knit fabrics can be a challenging as the fabric has a tendency to slip through after a while and several times I have ended up with a big hole and a loose metal ring. Not fun!
But I’ve come up with a method that is pretty solid and could in fact be used on all sorts of fabrics because it resists stress well.
For attaching eyelets on knit fabrics you’ll need
- Firm non stretch fusible interfacing (I recommend Vlieseline H250)
- A scrap of knit fabric (optional, but recommended when using thin knits)
- Eyelets/grommets and suitable tools
1. Secure the fabric
Cut a circle of the interfacing, press it on the fabric and mark where the hole should be
2. Make a hole that is smaller than you would normally do
This is very important since knit fabric will grow a bit more even when interfaced so the hole should be smaller than you would have done on a woven fabric
3. Insert the eyelet
As you can see there some fabric around the edges of the. This is because the hole is a bit smaller. Too much fabric will make it hard for the washers to really fit in with the eyelets. And a hole that is too big will cause the fabric to stretch out and slip out of the eyelet. So there is a sweet spot for sure!
4. Add a fabric scrap for extra insurance (optional)
This is important if you are working with a thin stretch knit, like rayon jersey. The eyelets needs some thickness to really “stick” to the fabric. So adding an extra layer is a good idea.
5. Add the washer
Don’t ask me which side should be up, I’m always confused! But I love Prym’s tutorials on YouTube, they are very clear on this subject.
6. Secure the washer to the eyelet
This is a pretty straight forward step. If you are using a hammer make sure it hits flat on the surface and I’ve also found that hammering with a firm but not super hard beat gives me the best result.
7. Inspection time
Don’t skip on this step, because this is an indicator of a successful assembly.
The eyelet should sit tight to the fabric on the right side, make sure there are no glitches.
The same goes for the washer on the wrong side, use your nails or a needle run through the entire edge to make sure it sits even and close.
There you go!
I hope this will be helpful for others, I’ve tried many different ways and this is the one that has worked the best. Plus a bonus tip; if you are attaching eyelets on a waistband made of thin knit, interface the side that is closest to body with a soft stretchy fusible since the metal might rub against or skin and could possible also wear down the fabric!
