Short Aglet for Lacing Cords - Outlet

Short Medieval Brass Aglet for Lacing Cords

History of Aglets and Fastening Guide

Historical originals of metal lace tags (commonly known as aglets, aiglets, or point tips) date back from the 14th through 17th centuries, spanning the High Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque eras. In the 14th century, European tailoring underwent a revolution: garments became closely fitted to the body, fastened together using dense rows of eyelets. To allow cords to thread smoothly through fabric or leather holes without fraying at the ends, they were fitted with small sheet-metal cones. This short smooth model represents the most universal shape, utilized by soldiers, burghers, and nobility across Europe.

This product is crafted from thin sheet brass rolled into a conical tube. Attaching it to a lacing cord is very straightforward: thread the end of a linen, wool, or leather cord through the wider opening of the cone measuring 4.7 mm / 0.19 in in diameter. Next, hand-sew the cord in place through the small side hole using a few stitches of strong thread, or gently crimp the aglet around the cord using small pliers to ensure a firm and permanent grip.

Aglet Specifications Table

Brass Care and Safety Guidelines

My friend, to ensure these brass aglets serve you well for a long time and maintain their fine appearance, proper care is recommended. As these are small metal components, do not machine wash garments fitted with aglets—they could bend, tear free from cords, or damage the washing machine drum. Gentle hand washing of the garment is advised. Brass naturally oxidises and darkens when exposed to moisture; to restore a high shine, polish lightly with a soft cotton cloth. Exercise caution when crimping with pliers, avoiding excessive force so as not to deform the thin-walled cone.

Recommended Accessories

Along with these elegant brass aglets, we strongly recommend purchasing high-quality braided linen or wool cords, leather thongs up to 4 mm / 0.16 in in diameter, and strong waxed linen thread for sewing. For complete 14th to 16th-century garment lacing, brass lacing rings or eyelets will also prove invaluable. Your period clothing will thus achieve an impeccably unified and historically accurate character.