Where to put embroidered patches
Where is the best place to put patches?
Custom embroidered patches have become a popular way to add a personal touch to your clothing and accessories. While jackets and bags are the classic choice, there are so many more creative and unique places where you can showcase your favorite patches. Here, we'll explore 12 innovative patch ideas that go beyond the ordinary and inspire your patch-loving creativity. Whether you're in the US, UK, or anywhere else, these ideas are sure to help you make a statement with your custom embroidered patches.
- Patch Blanket:
One of the coziest ways to display your custom embroidered patches is on a patch blanket. Sew or attach patches onto a soft blanket to create a warm and personalized masterpiece.
- Patch Cork Board Display:
Create a patch cork board to showcase your collection. This functional display not only keeps your patches organized but also serves as a decorative piece for your workspace.
- Patch Fabric Display Wall Banner:
Transform a plain wall into a patch art gallery by making a fabric display wall banner. This unique display method allows you to switch out patches easily and adds a touch of character to your space.
- Patch Cape or Poncho:
For a fashionable twist, add custom embroidered patches to a cape or poncho. This fashion-forward choice ensures that you'll stand out from the crowd.
- Patched Up-Cycled Furniture:
Give new life to old furniture by covering it with patches. Whether it's a chair, stool, or table, this creative DIY project can turn your furniture into a conversation piece.
- Patches on a Sweatshirt:
Sweatshirts are not just for staying cozy; they're a perfect canvas for displaying your custom patches. Arrange them in a way that represents your unique style.
- Patches on a Cap or Hat:
Caps and hats are a classic choice for custom embroidered patches. Whether you're a fan of baseball caps or beanies, your patches can easily add a touch of personal flair.
- Patches on Shoes:
Elevate your footwear game by adding patches to your shoes. Sneakers, boots, and even sandals can be customized with your favorite patches, creating a truly unique look.
Where do patches go on clothes?
Are you wondering where to add those fabulous custom embroidered patches on your wardrobe? Well, you're in the right place! Patches are a fantastic way to add a unique and personal touch to your clothes, be it a jacket, dress, jeans, hat, or any other fabric. They allow you to express your individuality and make a fashion statement.
Chest - A Prominent Location:
One of the most popular spots to attach custom embroidered patches is the chest area. Placing a patch here not only draws attention to your choice of design but also adds a touch of sophistication to your outfit. Whether you're going for a classic look on a blazer or a casual one on a denim jacket, the chest area is a prime location for custom patches.
Shoulder - A Unique Twist:
The shoulders are another strategic spot to showcase your custom embroidered patches. This placement adds an edgy and unique element to your attire. Be it on a military-style jacket, a shirt, or even a backpack, patches on the shoulders are sure to catch the eye of onlookers.
Back - A Bold Statement:
For those looking to make a bold statement, the back is a great canvas for your custom patches. Whether you're opting for a single large patch or a combination of smaller ones, this location is ideal for expressing your personality or affiliations. Plus, it's a fantastic way to grab attention as you walk away.
Midway Down on the Front for Jackets:
If you're sporting a jacket, you can also consider placing custom embroidered patches midway down the front. This location is perfect for showcasing a patch that represents your interests or affiliations while maintaining a sleek and stylish appearance. Whether you're into motorcycling, outdoor adventures, or simply love unique designs, the front of your jacket is a great spot for custom patches.
Back Pocket for Jeans - A Casual Touch:
Jeans enthusiasts can personalize their denim with custom patches on the back pocket. It's a casual and trendy way to display your unique style. From logos to custom artwork, your jeans can be transformed into a work of art that reflects your personality.
Incorporating "custom embroidered patches" into your wardrobe allows you to showcase your individuality while staying fashionable and on-trend. These patches can be an excellent conversation starter, sparking discussions about your interests, hobbies, or affiliations.
When it comes to sourcing top-quality patches, "badges UK" is a term that you should keep in mind. The United Kingdom is renowned for its high-quality patch manufacturers, offering a wide range of custom options. Whether you're looking for embroidered, woven, or PVC patches, you can trust UK-based suppliers to deliver top-notch products. So, when you're on the hunt for the perfect custom patches to adorn your clothes, be sure to explore the "badges UK" market to find the ideal fit for your fashion needs.
Is it better to put a patch on the inside or outside?
When it comes to repairing your cherished items with custom embroidered patches or badges UK, there's often a burning question: Should you apply the patch on the inside or the outside? The answer might not be as straightforward as you think.
Q: Do I put the patch on the outside or inside of the item being repaired?
A: We recommend applying the patch on the outside. This prevents water from reaching the adhesive backing. For maximum protection, apply the patch on BOTH the inside and outside.
The placement of your custom embroidered patches or badges UK can have a significant impact on their durability and the overall aesthetics of your items. Let's dive deeper into the considerations for both inside and outside patch application.
Applying Patches on the Outside
Placing the patch on the outside of your item is the more common and recommended practice. The primary advantage is that it prevents water from seeping through to the adhesive backing, keeping it intact and ensuring a longer-lasting repair.
Here are some key points to keep in mind when choosing to apply patches on the outside:
- Durability: By affixing the patch on the outside, it's less likely to get damaged during regular wear and tear.
- Visibility: Custom embroidered patches and badges UK are often designed to be displayed proudly. Putting them on the outside ensures they're seen by everyone.
- Water Resistance: As mentioned earlier, this method shields the adhesive from moisture, preventing premature detachment.
- Easy Application: Attaching the patch to the outside is usually more straightforward and offers a cleaner look.
Applying Patches on Both the Inside and Outside
While applying the patch solely on the outside is the preferred method, there are instances where double-sided application is beneficial. For maximum protection and a super-secure attachment, you can apply custom embroidered patches or badges UK on both the inside and outside.
Here are some reasons to consider using this approach:
- Extra Security: If the item you're repairing undergoes a lot of stress or movement, such as a backpack or a sports jersey, adding a patch on the inside can reinforce the attachment.
- Hidden Repairs: Applying a patch on the inside conceals the repair work, maintaining the item's original appearance.
- Versatility: Some items may benefit from the added security, like heavy-duty jackets or bags that experience extensive wear and tear.
What to Consider Before Attaching a Patch?
When it comes to personalizing your attire or accessories, patches are a fantastic way to add a touch of individuality. Whether you're into vintage fashion, expressing your personality, or showing off your affiliations, patches can help you achieve that unique look. However, before you start attaching those patches, there are a few essential factors to consider.
- Patch Material:
Not all patches are created equal, and the material they are made of can greatly impact how they should be attached. Common fabrics for embroidery patches include nylon, polyester, cotton, and denim. Each material has its own characteristics, and knowing the type of material will help you decide not only how to attach the patch but also what type of clothing it will work best with.
- Placement Matters:
The placement of your custom embroidered patches is crucial. You can attach them almost anywhere on your clothing or accessories, be it a jacket, dress, jeans, or hat. However, where you choose to place the patch can significantly affect the overall look. The areas that draw the most attention are usually the chest, shoulder, back, midway down the front for a jacket, or the back pocket for jeans. Think about the overall design of your attire and how the patch will complement it.
- Design Considerations:
The design of your patch is perhaps the most critical aspect. A well-designed patch can make a bold statement and enhance your overall style. Small to medium-sized patches are often the most attention-grabbing, and they are versatile enough to be placed on various types of clothing and accessories. The color of the patch should stand out, and the design should match the message or style you want to convey. If you're into badges, UK has a rich tradition of producing high-quality patches to suit your preferences.
- Custom Embroidered Patches:
Sometimes, finding the perfect patch in stores can be a challenge. The patches available may not convey the exact message you want to send or match your unique style. In such cases, opting for custom embroidered patches is a brilliant choice. Custom-made patches allow you to have full control over the design, size, and color, ensuring that your patches are a perfect fit for your vision.
How Do You Put Embroidery Patches on Clothes?
Embroidery patches are a fantastic way to add a touch of personalization and style to your clothing. Whether you're looking to sport custom embroidered patches or badges in the UK, attaching them to your garments can be a fun and creative process. Depending on your available resources and the fabric material, specific methods work better for attaching patches than others. Let’s cover each one in detail, so you can decide which is best for your situation.
- Iron-On
Ironing is the fastest and easiest way to attach embroidery patches. This method requires an iron-on patch with a sticky back that activates when applied with heat. Some will come with a backing sheet that needs removal before attaching.
An iron-on patch is perfect if you plan on sticking them on denim or cotton. Needles are difficult to push through thick and firm material, such as embroidered patches, so it’s best to iron or glue them.
Also, you’ll need to ensure that you’re using a material that can withstand the heat of the iron and is free of wrinkles. Avoid silk, polyester, and other delicate fabrics since an iron’s heat can discolor or burn them.
Start by placing the piece of clothing on an ironing board. Next, place the adhesive side of the patch in the position you want. Make sure to mark the exact spot you’d like the patch to be since you won’t be able to modify the location later.
Turn the iron on to 350 degrees. You’ll want to preheat the iron without steam and find a hard, flat surface. Place a towel over the patch and the surrounding fabric to protect your cloth from the high heat.
Preheat the spot where you plan on placing your new patch by pressing it. Hold it down for 20 seconds to warm up the area, so it’s conducive to melting your custom embroidered patches onto the fabric.
Press the heated iron over the towel and make slow circular motions on your embroidered patch. Do this for about a minute, and then check to see if the patch remains in its place. The patch should stick to the fabric without having any loose ends. If not, place the towel back and repeat the process for another minute.
Once it’s stuck on your clothing, let it cool. When your fabric is at room temperature, look to see how well it holds.
- Glue or Fusible Web
Gluing is a viable option for attaching embroidery patches, but it depends on the kind of glue. With embroidered patches, it should only be your last resort. Fabric glue or fusible web isn’t reliable when it comes to sticking for a long time.
Carefully place the fabric glue on the back of your patch and press it firmly onto your clothing. Let the glue sit for an hour so that it can set. Afterward, test the edges by lifting them. If the glue comes off, you didn’t put enough, and you’ll need to re-apply the glue and wait another hour. After 24 hours, you’ll be able to wear, wash, and dry the fabric since the glue has dried and created a strong bond.
Ensure that you buy quality glue from the craft store since some brands may deteriorate over time. If you have to add glue every few weeks to keep it from falling, you’ll want to try a different application method.
- Velcro
Velcro is another practical way to attach your embroidery patches. The advantage of using velcro is that you can easily switch the patches whenever you feel like it.
Velcro patches must be glued or sewn onto the back of your patch or clothing. Make sure you tightly secure the velcro patch on all sides.
Once you’ve attached the patch, you can attach and remove your patch as many times as you’d like without sewing.
- Fabric Adhesive
Fabric adhesive is a convenient way to secure lightweight patches onto delicate materials. It’s convenient for working with synthetics that aren’t conducive to heat application. Unlike glue, it’s permanent and is perfect if you don’t have a heat or iron press.
Before applying, test the glue on a small piece of fabric. You want to ensure that the glue doesn’t cause the material to fade in color, wrinkle, or dissolve.
Start with a clean, dry garment and follow the adhesive directions. Once it’s on, allow the adhesive to dry for one night before wearing it.
- Glue Gun
Glue guns are a more effective alternative to standard glue. However, you’ll need to know how to choose the right one. There are three types of glue guns: standard, low and adjustable temperature.
Low-temperature guns run about 260 degrees Fahrenheit, while standard-temperature ones run about 380 degrees Fahrenheit.
We recommend using a low or adjustable-temperature glue gun since high temperatures can burn through sensitive fabrics. It’s always best to test glue guns before using them to prevent potential hazards.
Start by applying the glue onto the patch and press the patch down for 20 seconds. Wait a few minutes and check to see that the patch has adhered to your clothing.
- Double-Sided Tape
Double-sided tape is a sheet with adhesive on both sides. It’s convenient since you can cut it to any size or shape according to your patch.
Simply stick the patch onto one side of the tape and attach the garment to the other. Double-sided tape is suitable for most fabrics, machine washable, safe to use, and non-toxic. The only issue is that it’s not as long-lasting as iron-ons, glue, or sewing.
- Hair Straightener
If you have a hair straightener, you can use it just as you would with a heat press or iron. It perfectly sticks the patch onto your fabric with little chance of it coming off.
First, gather your patch, garment, and hair straightener. Lay the patch on a smooth surface, and make sure the adhesive side is facing up.
Start by placing a towel over the piece of clothing. Turn the hair straightener on and ensure that it reaches 100 degrees. Gently press down the hair straightener on top of the patch for about 10 seconds. Wait about two minutes before removing the towel and lifting the hair straightener off.
Finally, let the patch cool off before testing it out by wearing your garment. Wait a day, and you’ll be able to wash it with cold water and detergent.
- Hand-Sew
Sewing is the most permanent and preserving solution to put embroidered patches onto your clothing. Hand-sewing patches can be easy as long as you know how to use a needle, thread, scissors, and a straight pin.
Using needles and pins is a great option if you don’t have an iron-on patch but want a durable option to attach to your clothing. It’s also ideal for traveling since these items are small and portable.
Pin the patch onto the cloth in the exact position where you want it. Choose a thin waxed thread and go through your jacket or shirt with the needle. Always choose an appropriate thread color, so it doesn’t interfere with the design of your patch.
Start threading from the inside of the shirt so that your threads aren’t showing on the outside.
Thread the needle through the patch and back again for a secure hold. Work your way around the patch until you reach the starting point.
Once you’ve reached that point, tie the thread into a knot to prevent the patch from falling off. Finally, cut the excess thread off, and you’re finished
- Machine Sew
If you have a sewing machine, it can be much more efficient, especially if you know how to use it and are sewing many patches.
Use a pin and position the patch to where you want it on your shirt or jacket. Typically, this is on either sleeve, just a few inches below the shoulder.
The thicker the patch, the thicker your needle and thread should be. Again, make sure to match the color of the thread to the edges of your patch.
Lay your patch (attached to the clothing) flat on the sewing machine and line everything up to the exact place you want it.
Set the sewing machine to the zigzag setting, specifically designed for sewing patches. Use the narrowest zigzag possible since patches are small, which ensures the stitches won’t be too obvious.
Begin sewing around the edges of the patch. You’ll need to re-maneuver your garment to sew the patch easily.
Once you’ve reached the starting point, your job is complete. Go around the edge to check if any loose ends haven’t escaped.