5 Methods To Apply Embroidered Patches To Hats Or Garments

Embroidered patches are a common and the most popular way of adding a customized touch to your clothing items. These patches give good brand placement and uniqueness. These emblems have been people’s top choice in recent years due to their durability, cost-effectiveness, versatility and distinctiveness. People get embroidered patches in bulk for their business, as you may have seen on uniforms and other items.

However, many individuals try crafting embroidered patches at home. The process of making and applying these emblems is easy and straightforward. You can choose from various options, such as Velcro, gluing, iron-on and many others. In this guide, we will explore every option in detail with the necessary steps so that you have a clear understanding of all the backing options available for embroidered patches. 

Easy Ways To Add Embroidered Patches To Your Clothing Items And Accessories

Sewing Method 

Sewing your patch is undoubtedly the most reliable way of applying custom embroidered patches on your hat or other clothing items. If you are a pro with threads and needles, then there is no better way than stitching the crest.

  • Step 1: The first step is to ensure that the clothing items don’t have any folds. After checking, place the patch in the desired position and hold it firmly with the help of pins.
  • Step 2: Moving forward, take the right needle according to the fabric, put a thread in it, and pull it until you have an equal length of the thread on both sides. Tie a knot, and you are ready to show your stitching expertise.
  • Step 3: Now, stitch the patch from the corners in a clean way. You can choose from different stitching styles. It can be a zigzag, straight, chain or any other type of stitch that you want. Once you are done with the sewing process, secure the crest by tying knots at the back. By following this method, you will attach your emblem and give a fun look to your hat, shirt or other apparel in just a short time.

Gluing Method

One of the easiest methods is using fabric glue to apply the patch. However, it is not durable compared to other techniques. It is only suitable when you don’t have the resources to go for other methods, and you are in a hurry. Using good quality glue might help in sticking the patch so it won’t wear out. 

  • Step 1: The first step is to get the best quality glue you can find in the market. Then take the back of your patch and carefully put a generous amount of glue. You need to be cautious so that the glue doesn’t spill and spoil the front of your patch.
  • Step 2: The next step is to leave the glue for a few seconds and then firmly press it down on your clothing or hat. To avoid any movement and maintain steadiness, laying the clothing item on a flat surface can be a good option.
  • Step 3: Once you are done, you must wait for the glue to dry. The final step is to check the sides of the crest by pulling them upwards. If they come out from any place, you need to reapply the glue for better application. 

Iron-on Method 

Choosing custom iron on patches can be the best option if the material of your clothing item is cotton or denim. Due to the thread thickness of embroidered patches, using a needle can be a time and energy-consuming task. Iron-on backings are easy to apply and can be done easily at home with no such equipment.

  • Step 1: Start by laying the clothing item on the iron board. Then put the back of the patch in the place where you want to attach it. Using a pencil or chalk to mark the spots can ease the process for you. 
  • Step 2: Take your iron and drain out excess water from it. Now the most important part is to put your iron at the right temperature. You can check the instructions present on the patch or your clothing item. 
  • Step 3: When the iron is hot enough, then put it on the patched area. Hold it there for a few seconds and put light pressure with a steady hand. To get perfect results, make sure that there is no movement on your emblem. Remember that the adhesive backing must melt completely to stick the crest strongly. 
  • Step 4: Take the iron off and check whether the badge is properly applied to the fabric or not. The ends should stick smoothly to increase the longevity of your custom patch. If you feel the crest won’t stick for long, repeat the process for another 30 seconds.

Velcro

Velcro is also known as tactical and morale backing. There are no specific steps you need for the application of this backing. There are two parts, a hook and a loop. The first thing that you need to do is attach the loop to the desired clothing item. Make sure that the placement is correct because it can’t be changed afterwards. Now you have to put the hook on the back of your embroidered patch. Using this simple method, you can easily wear your patch whenever you like. This patch is easy to detach when washing or ironing your clothes, which makes it long-lasting.

Double Sided Tape Method 

Double tape is one of the most convenient methods to apply the patch on your clothing. It is an adhesive sheet that you can alter in any shape and size. Simply just cut out the tape in the shape of your patch and attach one side to the garment and the other one to the crest. Press them tightly together, and in seconds, you will get the emblem on your hat or any clothing item. The only drawback of using this method is that it is not durable and only works if you want to attach the patch temporarily. 

Conclusion

Undoubtedly, Custom embroidered patches are easy to craft and attach to your favorite clothing item, making them a good choice for individuals looking to add style to their everyday looks. You don’t need to be a pro in making and attaching patches. You can do it easily with the right methods and tools. There are multiple options, from ironing and double-sided tape to Velcro and gluing, that you can use to apply your custom embroidered emblems. 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the most suitable fabric for embroidery? 

Cotton is the most common and best fabric to craft your custom patches. Using cotton fabric can allow you to stitch any design and achieve a clean look on the patch.

Which type of embroidery works best for hats?

Flat embroidery is the best option for hats. It gives you room for details and variations. Apart from flat embroidery, you can try other kinds, such as cross stitch, plain stitch and even 3D puff embroidery. 

What is the most durable way to attach patches to garments?

Attaching your patches by sew-on method ensures high durability and long-lasting results. It allows the patch to hold its place even after many several washing cycles. Velcro is also a good option if you want sturdy results.