Do they take a little peek at the laces threaded through? (7)

I believe the answer is:

eyelets

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'do they' is the definition.
The definition suggests a plural noun which matches the answer.

I don't understand how the remainder of the clue works.

(Other definitions for eyelets that I've seen before include "Rings for reinforcement" , "peep-holes" , "Small holes" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.

Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app