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Selecting suitable tape

There are many different kinds of eyelet tape for clothing.  These are prepared tapes, machine set with eyelets, which are evenly spaced and uniformly set, but without washers.  The eyelets are smoothly set and the reverse side is not scratchy, so will not snag delicate fabrics.  You should make sure that you check with the seller to ensure that the tape will do the job you intend it for.  We have provided a list, at the end, of things to ask.

We sell a superb cotton herringbone eyelet tape which is made of two strips of coutil, the unsewn edge is turned under so it can be used to 'bind' the raw edges at the back of the corset and provide instant lacing which is extremely strong, almost as strong as setting your own grommets and washers.  The tape also provides channels for the bones.

Some tapes are made of a strip of nylon or satin, it is strong, but the nylon is a bit 'cheap' looking and the satin, while looking great is not very durable.  Neither are suitable for corset lacing, but can be used decoratively

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Coutil eyelet tape is great in bodices, corsets and for evening wear and bridal use.

It is a great time saver for doing mock-up corsets to check fit.  Simply baste it on, so you can lace up the corset, then remove and use again. 

A double tape can be used to bind the raw edge or it can be sandwiched inbetween layers of fabric.

The turned in edges can be unfolded and smoothed out when placing the tape between the layers of fabric to reduce bulk.

What to check when buying tape?

Is the tape single or double folded?

Single tape is only suitable for decoration as it needs to be sewn flat on to the fabric.  Double tape can be used to bind the edges and makes light work of producing suitable lacing eyelets for a garment.

What is the tape made of & how wide is it?

Cotton coutil - very strong, looks and feels of good quality, eyelets are set well as the tape is thick.  The only tape I would recommend for corset making.

Satin & Nylon - thin tapes mean eyelets less secure.  Fabric can fray making the eyelets work loose.  More suited for decorative lacing.

Ensure the width is suitable for your purpose and if you are putting bones in, is the space either side of the eyelets adequate?

Colour and Size of eyelets.

Coloured eyelets are normally enammelled metal, the 'paint' can chip and make the garment look worn.  Silver or gold (brass) eyelets are the same colour throughout so the 'colour' cannot rub off.  4mm eyelets are a typical size suited to take corset lacing cords.  Smaller eyelets may only enable lacing to be done with a thin ribbon or cord so may only be suitable for decoration.