Eyelets can be set on any material that is pliable enough to be punctured with a device such as a hole-punch or awl. Artists have set eyelets onto leather, metal, fabrics and most commonly onto cardstock. The process of setting an eyelet onto cardstock as described below can be applied to most other pliable mediums.

The first step is to make a hole on the cardstock. You can do this by using a hole-punch or an eyelet punch. The benefit of using an eyelet punch is that you can position the hole to appear anywhere on the cardstock. If you are using an eyelet punch, simply hold the punch on top of the cardstock and tap the end lightly with a hammer. This process should be done on a hard work surface such as a cutting board or specialized punching pad. Be certain that the hole is large enough for the eyelet to fit, but not so large that the eyelet goes completely through the hole.

These days, eyelets come in a multitude of colors, shapes, and sizes. Once you have selected the perfect eyelet, fit it into the hole and then turn the cardstock over. Next, place the eyelet setting tool into the short tubular section of the eyelet. Tap the end of the setter gently with a hammer. Note: If you are using a punching pad, it will protect the paint from chipping off the face of the eyelet. If you are not using a punching pad, you may need to place a piece of fabric between the eyelet and work surface to protect the paint from chipping off.