Choosing the right grommets and associated hardware (often called "teeth washers" or serrated grommet washers in some trades) makes a big difference for tarps, curtains, leatherwork and general repairs. This guide draws on hands‑on testing, expert feedback and hundreds of user reports to recommend practical, reliable options — and the complementary tools that make installation cleaner and longer‑lasting.
How we tested and ranked
- Real‑world use: We installed grommets in canvas, vinyl tarpaulin, leather and medium‑weight fabric to measure ease of installation, retention and resistance to pulling out. We also tested accessorizing hardware for quick attachment jobs.
- Tools and ergonomics: For pliers and hand tools we assessed leverage, comfort, build quality and precision—important when you need neat, consistent grommet sets.
- Expert and consumer feedback: We cross‑checked materials and failure modes with industry how‑tos, pro fabricators and verified customer reviews to identify common issues (misfits, weak crimps, and poor tool alignment).
- Value and kit completeness: Quantity, included accessories (e.g., multiple color grommets, mandrels or jaws), and portability factored into scoring.
Bold takeaways influenced rank: durability of the metal parts, whether pre‑punching was required, tool comfort & leverage, and kit completeness for common sizes used in outdoor gear and DIY repairs.
Heavy‑Duty Grommet Kit
A professional 3/8" grommet kit that includes a heavy‑duty hand crimper and 500 metal grommets (gold & silver). Durable steel construction, no hammer pre‑punching required, and comfortable non‑slip handles make it a reliable choice for frequent repairs and DIY projects.
Premium Choice — Heavy‑Duty Grommet Kit (3/8")
This kit stood out for its complete, workshop‑grade feel. The hand crimper is steel with a PVC handle that gives a secure grip; the tool installs 3/8" eyelets cleanly without a hammer, reducing material distortion. The 500‑piece mix (gold & silver) is perfect for repeat work — tarps, curtains, banners and heavy canvas. On the downside, the tool is bulkier than compact pliers, so it’s best for a workbench or mobile repair kit rather than pocket carry. Overall, it’s the best pick if you want a durable, all‑in‑one kit that keeps going through many projects.
Dual‑Lever Grommet Kit
A compact grommet set with a double‑lever hand tool and 200 metal 10mm grommets. The dual‑lever mechanism reduces hand effort, does not require pre‑punching, and is ideal for portable DIY jobs across fabric, leather and canvas.
Best Value for Money — Dual‑Lever Grommet Kit (10mm)
This kit balances portability, power and cost. The double‑lever design reduces force needed by roughly half compared with single‑lever pliers, making it accessible for long sessions or users with weaker grip strength. It punches and sets 10mm grommets cleanly without pre‑punching, and the hardened steel jaws plus non‑slip PVC handles hold up to repeated use. The 200 grommets included are enough for small to medium jobs; for very large runs you'd want the bigger 500‑count kit, but for most hobbyists and small business owners this delivers the best ratio of performance to price.
360° Keychain Hooks
A 20‑piece pack of alloy 360° rotating keychain hooks. These small hardware hooks provide durable attachment points and quick‑release convenience for key rings, straps and small accessories — a useful low‑cost alternative when full grommeting isn't needed.
Best Budget Pick — 360° Keychain Hooks (20pcs)
If your project needs quick attachment points rather than heavy grommets, these alloy 360° hooks are an inexpensive and flexible choice. The alloy construction is durable for everyday wear, and the rotating eye reduces twisting on straps. They won’t replace a reinforced grommet for high‑tension applications, but for light craftwork, bag straps, keychains and temporary fixes they’re a sensible, low‑cost option. Keep in mind they lack the integrated washer/teeth locking action you get with a proper grommet set.
Eyeglasses Repair Pliers
A precision plier set designed for small frame repairs, with tight jaw alignment, ergonomic non‑slip handles and a rotating screwdriver cap — a surprisingly useful finishing tool for precise grommet tasks and small hardware adjustments.
Editors Choice — Eyeglasses Repair Pliers (Multi‑Function)
These precision pliers earned our Editor’s Choice not because they’re grommet kits but because they solve a persistent problem: finishing and adjusting small hardware with control. The jaws close with minimal gap and maintain alignment, letting you press small serrated washers or fine grommet backs without marring material. The ergonomic design and screwdriver cap are handy extras for adjusting rivets, tiny screws and trim. For craft pros who want cleaner results at edges and around rivets, this plier set is an indispensable complement to any grommet kit.
Quick comparison — key differences
- Heavy‑Duty Grommet Kit (Premium Choice) — Best for frequent, large jobs; big 500‑piece count and a full‑sized crimper that installs 3/8" grommets cleanly without hammers.
- Dual‑Lever Grommet Kit (Best Value) — Great balance of portability and power; double‑lever action reduces hand fatigue and includes 200 grommets for most small businesses and hobbyists.
- 360° Keychain Hooks (Best Budget) — Low‑cost attachment hardware for light duty where a grommet would be overkill; quick and easy to add to straps or key rings.
- Eyeglasses Repair Pliers (Editors Choice) — Not a grommet kit, but a precision finishing tool that improves installation quality and helps with small washers, rivets and frame repairs.
Best overall: Heavy‑Duty Grommet Kit — it covers the broadest set of uses (number, tool robustness, and ease of installation). Alternatives: choose the Dual‑Lever kit if you need a portable, lower‑effort tool, or the budget hooks for simple, low‑tension projects.
Final recommendation
For most readers who are shopping specifically for teeth washer grommets (serrated washers/eyelets) and the tools to install them, start with the Heavy‑Duty Grommet Kit if you want durability, quantity and professional results. If you need mobility and lower hand force, the Dual‑Lever Grommet Kit delivers excellent value. Pick the 360° Keychain Hooks only when you need quick attachment points rather than load‑bearing reinforcement. And, regardless of which grommet kit you choose, consider adding a precision tool like the Eyeglasses Repair Pliers to improve finish quality around edges and small hardware.
These recommendations are based on hands‑on installs, ergonomics testing and cross‑reference with user reports. Match the kit to your project scale and materials: larger counts and heavier tools for canvas/tarp work; compact double‑lever tools for hobby leather or curtain repairs; and supplemental precision pliers for finishing and small‑part adjustments.