I like to keep my ID badge for TechShop on a retractable key chain. However after pulling on it lots of times to open doors, the plastic wore down and eventually broke, falling off my keychain. Thankfully I heard it when it dropped so I didn't lose by badge but I wanted to make sure it wouldn't happen again.

Using some simple grommets, I reinforced the opening so that it shouldn't break again. In this Instructable, I'll show you how I did it!

I made this at TechShop.

Step 1: Gather Your Materials

Tools and materials needed:

Grommets - I got a big bag from Harbor Freight for $4. It includes the installation tools.
Hammer

Step 2: Punch the Hole

To insert the grommet, you'll need to create a larger hole in the plastic. Thankfully, the grommet set comes with the punch that you will need.

Step 3: Install the Grommet

For the following step, I recommend doing a couple practice pieces before doing it on your actual badge. Just to see how the grommets work and to understand how hard you'll have to hit it with a hammer.

Place the grommet on top of the install base. Sandwich the plastic between it and the washer.

Using the grommet installer, hit it with a hammer. This will bend the flange of the grommet and secure it around the washer.