A Full Guide to Banner Grommets and How to Install Them

A Full Guide to Banner Grommets and How to Install Them

Banner grommets are small but crucial components for hanging banners securely. Whether you're new to banners or looking to expand your knowledge, understanding grommets—what they are, how they work, and how to install them—can help you make the most of your banner investments.

What Are Banner Grommets and Why Do They Matter?

Grommets are metal rings that reinforce holes in banner material. They prevent tearing when banners are hung using rope, poles, or other fasteners, especially in windy conditions. Without grommets, holes in vinyl banners would quickly rip, which would shorten the banner's lifespan.

Types of Banner Grommets

Metal Grommets: The industry standard, typically made of nickel-coated brass. These are durable and weather-resistant, making them ideal for outdoor banners.

Plastic Grommets: Have no sharp edges, which prevents the fraying of ropes that pass through them. Some are fully plastic while others are metal with plastic coating.

Rubber Grommets: Similar to plastic, these eliminate sharp edges and work well when running electrical wires through holes, though they're less common for banners.

Adhesive Banner Tabs: Adhesive banner tabs are a sturdy alternative to traditional grommets. They are usually made of durable plastic or vinyl and have a strong adhesive backing that sticks to the banner's corners or edges.

Standard Grommet Sizes

The most common size for banner grommets is 3/8 inch (interior diameter). Other standard sizes include:

• 3/16 inch for smaller banners
• 1/2  inch for larger banners
• 7/16 inch for medium applications
• 1 inch for heavy-duty uses

Professional Grommet Installation

Print shops use specialized equipment for grommet installation:

Grommet Press Machines: Manual devices that apply consistent pressure to join the front and back pieces of a grommet.

Automatic Hydraulic Presses: Used for high-volume production, these machines quickly install multiple grommets with precise placement.

Professional installers usually place grommets at each corner and every two feet along the edges of larger banners.

DIY Grommet Installation

To install grommets yourself:

1. Use a hand grommeter (similar to pliers) after punching holes in your banner.
2. Position the larger grommet piece on the front and the smaller piece on the back.
3. Squeeze them together using the tool.

Alternatively, a hole punch and hammer can work in a pinch, though results may be less professional.

Strategic Grommet Placement

For optimal banner hanging:

• Place grommets at each corner, about 3/4 inch from the edges.
• Add grommets every 24 inches for banners wider than four feet.
• Consider 12-inch spacing for very large banners or windy conditions.
• Use all available grommets when hanging to distribute tension evenly.

Eyelets vs. Grommets

Though similar, eyelets and grommets have different purposes. Eyelets are usually smaller, decorative, and used primarily for fabric and lightweight materials like clothing. On the other hand, grommets are larger, sturdier, and designed for heavier materials like vinyl banners, canvas, and signage.

Get Grommet-Free Adhesive Banner Tabs for an Easy and Fast Solution!

While traditional grommets provide excellent durability, new banner display technology has introduced alternatives that offer unique advantages. Adhesive banner tabs are an innovative solution for those seeking quicker installation without the need for specialized tools or hole punching. For fast and easy application, get grommet-free adhesive banner tabs today!