Start with the item
Three questions settle most backing choices:
- How often will it be washed? Uniforms, workwear and team kit are washed constantly; a bag or a cap rarely is.
- Who will attach it? A decorator with a sewing machine, a heat press at an event, or your customer at home with an iron.
- Does it need to come off? Changeable name tapes, rank or unit insignia and morale patches need to be removable.
The four backings compared
| Backing | How it attaches | Good for | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sew-on | Stitched around the edge; no adhesive | Items washed often; the most secure option | Needs sewing, by hand or machine |
| Iron-on (heat seal) | Heat-activated adhesive, bonded with an iron or heat press | Quick application without sewing | The bond can loosen over many washes; the fabric must tolerate the heat; settings depend on the adhesive |
| Hook and loop | Hook side on the patch, loop side sewn onto the item (usually) | Removable and swappable patches | The loop panel has to be sewn on first |
| Peel-and-stick adhesive | Peel off a liner and press in place | One day or one event | Not meant for washing or long-term wear |
For an iron-on patch on something that is washed often, a few stitches around the edge after pressing add security. (VELCRO® is a brand name; the generic term is hook and loop.)
Backings by patch type
Fabric patches (embroidered, woven, chenille and printed) can generally take any of the four. For leather and PVC, stitching and hook and loop are the usual choices; heat application works only with a backing made for it, so ask before planning to iron one on. Which backings are available for your patch is confirmed with the quote.
What to tell us
- The item and fabric the patch goes on (for example a cotton twill cap, a nylon backpack, a fleece jacket).
- Who will apply it and with what: sewing machine, heat press or a household iron.
- How often it will be washed, and whether the patch must be removable.
- Your backing preference, or "Not sure" if you would like a recommendation.
Ready to order patches?
Send the patch type and quantity for a quote. Orders start at 50 pieces.