Eyelets, Nail Heads & Brads

Supplies Needed

Eyelet Hole Punch, Regular Paper Hole Punch or Long Reach Hole Punch: To make a hole in paper for the eyelet to fit into. It’s best to match the size of the hole punch to the size of the eyelet being set. For brads most hole sizes will work, but don’t make the hole bigger than the front of the brad.
Eyelet Setter*: Tool that will crimp back of eyelet to hold it in place. There are different sizes of eyelets and you should have the right size setter for the eyelet.
Small Hammer or Mallet: To crimp back of eyelet when used with eyelet setter.
Small Mat: Many feel the best result is gotten if there is a mat between the eyelet to be set and a flat surface.
Eyelets: Available in 3 basic sizes in every color imaginable. Eyelets can be traditional (round hole) or as a specialty in shapes like stars, hearts, flowers and more.
Brads: Available in a variety of sizes, shapes and colors. Has 2 prongs on back.
Nailheads: Available in a variety of sizes, shapes and colors. Has several prongs on back.
*There is an all in one eyelet hole and eyelet setter tool available.

Step-by-Step

Eyelets

Punch hole where you want to place an eyelet.
Slip eyelet into hole. Remember to place the eyelet so the back of the eyelet is coming out to the back/wrong side of your project.
Place project on mat. Place eyelet setter so that sits on top of the back of the eyelet.
Tap the top of the eyelet setter firmly with your hammer or mallet. Tap until back of eyelet is flush. Keep in mind that eyelets vary in metal firmness. One brand may need only one tap while another may need 2-3.

Brads

Punch hole where you want to place a brad. Make sure hole is smaller than brad front.
Place brad into hole with right side on top and prongs to the back of your page or project.
Separate prongs and spread flush with paper.
Brads can help you bring movement within your design. For example attach arms or legs with a brad and the arm or leg can move.

Nail Heads

Gently push nail head down into paper, piercing the paper with nail head prongs. This is easiest if you use a cushion or self-healing mat.
Turn paper over and gently push prongs down with a wood craft stick or other flat tool. Be careful, prongs are sharp.

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