Pips for a Stand-Up Collar

[Nervous Jock]

Am I supposed to puncture the collar in four places with holes large enough to fit the posts with eyelets through? So, I need an awl? This seems rather distructive with no mistakes allowed (unlike a badge that only makes a pin-hole). Advice? (I'm guessing, "measure twice; cut once", will come.)

You pretty much got it right, most british mil badges are the same too (the current RRS badge has 7 of these posts to cut into your headdress). For Rank Badges most have been replaced by pins abd studs now which are kinder to the material but less robust. Suggest you use a craft knife rather than an awl.