Hardware: Signs and banners

By Maura Keller

Within the display hardware arena, hole reinforcement technology is at the core, coming in the form of grommets and washers. Two leading manufacturers of grommets and washers include Dot Fasteners in Clarkesville, Ga., and Stimpson Co. in Pompano Beach, Fla. Sheet metal grommets, plain washers, tooth washers, rolled rim grommets, and rolled rim washers are best-selling grommet and washers within the industry.

Stimpson also offers self-piercing grommets and washers. These “no hole needed” self-piercing grommets are made from heavier gauge brass than traditional sheet metal grommets and, when set with their matching washers, pierce and set in a single action without the need for a prepunched hole.

Maura Keller is a Minneapolis-based writer and editor.