How to Use Webbing Loops Instead of Grommets (PDF)
If you don’t have grommets or grommet-setting tools, but you need to install a grommet into your fabric application, don’t worry. Have you ever considered sewing a webbing loop onto your fabric instead? A webbing loop is a great alternative to a grommet for things like sails, tie downs, fabric covers and more. Webbing loops are very useful, and they even have some added benefits versus installing grommets. In our short downloadable document, we’ll discuss some of the techniques of installing a webbing loop on the edge of your fabric as well as the benefits of this technique. Let’s discuss.
We used webbing loops to secure this winter boat cover to its trailer.
Don’t give up on your sewing project if the instructions call for installing a grommet. Grommets and grommet-installation tools are a great resource to have in your sewing toolbox, but if you don’t have them yet you can still complete your project. In some cases, you can substitute a grommet for a sewn loop with the same results and effectiveness.
All it requires is sewing a loop of webbing to the edge of your fabric application where the grommet would be installed. We recommend sewing the doubled webbing layer with a sturdy box X stitch. The box X stitch is one of the strongest common stitch patterns, and it has the same strength level as a grommet. If your fabric application will see a lot of time in the sun, we recommend using outdoor polyester or even PTFE thread for its incredible UV resistance.
We hope our short and informative download has helped you learn more about the advantages and usefulness of sewing a webbing loop to your fabric project instead of installing grommets. At Sailrite®, we stock a full selection of webbing in various widths and fiber types. We also carry a full lineup of grommet sizes and installation tools should you choose to install grommets instead of sewing webbing loops. Whichever method you choose, we have the materials and supplies you need to tackle all your DIY projects with great success!