A hook-and-eye closure is a type of fastener, often used on undergarments such as brassieres. The basic design of a hook-and-eye closure makes it easy to sew in and to use, and the fastening can be used in a wide variety of garments. Most sewing supply stores carry hook and eye closures in a range of sizes as well as colors. For people who are replacing a missing or damaged hook-and-eye closure, the garment in question should be brought in to compare with packaged closures, ensuring that the right size is purchased.
The faster is typically made from metal, since metal is durable and long lasting. It consists of two parts, a metal hook and an eyeloop for the hook to slip through. Once the hook is slipped through the eyeloop, the eyeloop will hold the hook-and-eye closure together until the wearer slips the hook out. Generally, the pressure of the two sides of the closure pulling against each other keeps the hook-and-eye closure closed, which is why the fastener is so well suited to snug undergarments.
The hook of the closure is very shallow, so it should not dig into the flesh of the wearer. In some cases, a flap of fabric may be positioned between the hook-and-eye closure and the skin, to act as padding. Both ends of the fastener are attached to the garment with small metal loops or tabs which can be sewn on, and people should periodically test the strength of the sewing on their hook and eye closures, especially on tight garments which may be strained when they are closed.
Brassieres, snug dresses, and corsets tend to use very small, discreet hook and eye closures. Larger closures may be used ornamentally on shirts, jackets, or cloaks, among other garments. If the garment is too lose, the hook will tend to fall out of the eye, since it is not held in place with pressure. Moving a hook-and-eye closure can sometimes rectify this problem.
It is important to use a suitable number of hook and eye closures on a garment. A single hook-and-eye closure is usually not sufficient, and may fail if it is subjected to a great deal of pressure. Multiple closures distribute pressure along the garment, ensuring that it will fit comfortably without buckling, twisting, or ripping. Positioning is also important, as a small error in position can result in an irritating fold or wrinkle in the garment.