Adding Metal Details To Costumes

Learn how to add metal brads, grommets, and eyelets to readymade garments or handmade items, including costumes.

Adding studs to clothes can add flair and visual interest to a garment or costume. In this video, you will learn how to add studs and how to attach brads to clothing, whether a readymade garment or an in-progress costume.

You will also learn the difference between eyelets and grommets, and how to attach each. Nicki discusses the process of how to attach grommets, and demonstrates how to attach metal eyelets. The process can be different depending on the type of grommet or eyelet you purchase, and whether it has a two piece or a one piece attachment style.

The terms are often used interchangeably, but there is a difference between eyelets and grommets. Though both grommets and eyelets come in many different sizes, grommets are typically larger and heavier duty, and often come in the two piece attachment style, which requires a puncher, an anvil (often included in the kit with the grommets), and a hammer. Eyelets are typically smaller and used for more delicate applications. Eyelets are perfect for creating a hole in a casing when a drawstring must be threaded through, such as a hoodie hood casing or a sweatpants waistband.

Metal details can add visual interest and create the right look for a costume, whether they are purely decorative, functional, or some combination of the two. Buttons, buckles, and other metal details can also add the right look, which is why Nicki recommends browsing through a multi-disciplinary craft and hobby store with an open mind to resources that might not be considered “sewing materials” for these additional details.

For more on this topic, check out these resources:
Prym Vario Creative Tool for attaching eyelets, grommets, and more
10 Quick DIY Halloween Costumes
Seaming Fake Fur