I was very happy that the grommets were not just plated. These will be destined for wash machines eventually, and I can not have them rust. Cutting tool did not get through towels (despite hitting it repeatedly with a hammer), so we used the mark it made as a guide to cut with scissors. I have no doubt it would easily cut through a tarp though. Much more “sturdy” than the sets we found at local stores, and very pleased with overall quality.