How to Construct A Grommet Panel...they are a "SNAP"!
Below are the instructions for constructing a grommet panel. It is recommended that you read all the steps and make sure you understand everything before you begin. You can email us for more instructions, if needed. You can "test" the grommet "snap" on a scrap piece of fabric. You can re-use the grommet you "test" by using a small, flat head screw driver to gently pry apart the two pieces. When you hear the "SNAP", your grommet is secure. Please send us an email of your finished work. You will have a uniform amount of fabric going to the back and front of your panel, if you use our "Grommet Spacing Template". Two grommet sizes are available, depending on the hardware you choose to use to mount your panel. The 'on-center' spacing is the same for each size grommet, however the inside diameter is different. Choose the "Grommet Spacing Template" that matches the grommet size you are using in your application. Have fun putting in grommets...they are a "SNAP"!
Assemble the Panel Layers
Assemble the panel as you would for a pinch pleat panel.
- Put in a double 4" bottom hem to face fabric and the lining lining, individually.
- With the face fabric and lining tabled together, press in side hems (1-1/2" double) and top header (4" double header). No need for buckram or crinoline in the header.
- Lay the "Grommet Spacing Template" on each panel width, along the top edge. You will have 10 grommets per width of fabric.
- You always want an even number of grommets so the finished edges point toward the wall, not to the inside of the room.
- You may need to adjust the panel width at one edge, so you may only want to put in one edge until you have the spacing correct for the grommets. Move the template in a "dry" run first and see where the side hems need to be.
Use the Template Spacing Tool
Use either a pencil, tailors chalk, or invisible marker to trace the inside diameter you need for the grommet size you have selected. Do this on the back side of the panel.
We carry 2 different sizes of grommets
depending on the application and look you are trying to achieve.
We carry 2 different sizes of grommets
depending on the application and look you are trying to achieve.
Tracing the Inside Diameter
Move down the entire width of your panel so you know where each grommet will fall. Be careful to adjust if necessary, so that a grommet doesn't fall on a seam. It is "OK" if it falls on the seam of your lining, but not on the face fabric. Remember, a standard panel width should have 10 grommets per panel.
Cut the Inside Diameter
Use sharp scissors to cut away the fabric on the inside diameter. You do not need to be perfect on this step, but it will depend on the stretch of your fabric. You can test the grommet cutting and "snapping" together on a scrap of your face fabric. Use a small flat screw driver to gently pry apart the grommet to re-use it on your panel.
2 Pieces to the Grommet "Male" & "Female"
There are 2 different pieces to each "snap" grommet. A "male" - grooved side & a "female" - pointed side.
Place the "male" (grooved) side of the grommet on the bottom and the "female" (pointed piece) on top. Make sure you have a steady surface to work on.
Place the "male" (grooved) side of the grommet on the bottom and the "female" (pointed piece) on top. Make sure you have a steady surface to work on.
Align the Grommets
Place the 2 pieces over each other with the fabric in between and the cut edge just inside the grooved "male" piece on the bottom.
Press with Your Palm
Use the palm of your hand to press down on the grommet. You should hear a "snap" and you will know it is secure. You can test your fabric before you begin to know how much pressure you will need.
It is not recommended that you use any tools to help you "snap" the grommet because you can damage the finish.
You may need to cut-away the inside layer if your fabric is too thick. Again, you should have this figured out by doing a sample before you begin the full panel widths.
You can place a board under your panel header if you feel you need a harder surface for "snapping".
It is not recommended that you use any tools to help you "snap" the grommet because you can damage the finish.
You may need to cut-away the inside layer if your fabric is too thick. Again, you should have this figured out by doing a sample before you begin the full panel widths.
You can place a board under your panel header if you feel you need a harder surface for "snapping".
Continue Down the Width
It is recommended that you only cut one or two holes at a time and "snap" in the grommets as you go. Having the grommets "snapped" in place will keep your panel layers together while you work.
Work From the Back Side
You are working from the back side, always.
Here is what the front looks like as you move down the panel width.
There is no need for any top-stitching of the header as the grommets will hold all the layers in place. The end result is a clean finished look.
Here is what the front looks like as you move down the panel width.
There is no need for any top-stitching of the header as the grommets will hold all the layers in place. The end result is a clean finished look.
