How to Reinforce an ID Badge Laminate

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.

Tools and materials needed:

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

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.

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.

Reattach your keychain and your laminate should now be much more secure. Now, I'm able to pull on it and not worry about it breaking loose at all.