How to Attach Patches to Different Fabrics • Online Logo Maker's Blog

Back to homepage How to Attach Patches to Different Fabrics Posted on May 22, 2024 by Logo Design Tips and Tricks

You’ve just bought a vibrant embroidered patch that perfectly captures your personality. You can already see it proudly displayed on your well-worn denim jacket. But wait – what if you want to also personalize your soft cotton tote bag or your cozy woolen sweater?

Each fabric presents its own unique challenges, from ensuring a strong bond to maintaining the integrity of the material. And the type of patch you choose plays a role in how to do it.

Read on to learn how to attach patches to different fabrics.

Iron-On Patches

Iron-on patches are a popular and convenient option for attaching patches to fabrics, particularly those that can withstand high heat, such as cotton and polyester.

Place your patch on your garment, ensuring the adhesive side is facing down. Take care to position it correctly, as repositioning can be difficult once the adhesive starts to melt.

Push the iron down firmly on your iron-on patch for about 30 to 45 seconds. Make sure you move the iron around slightly to distribute the heat evenly across the entire patch. This ensures all parts of the adhesive melt and bond with the fabric.

Allow the patch to cool for a few minutes, then gently check the edges to see if they have adhered properly. If the patch starts to peel away, reapply heat for another 10 to 15 seconds, focusing on the areas that didn’t stick.

If that sounds appealing, start shopping for custom patches for cosplay.

Sew-on Patches

Unlike iron-on patches, sew-on patches do not require heat, making them ideal for materials that cannot withstand high temperatures.

Choose a needle and thread matching the color of the patch or fabric for a seamless look. Thread the needle and tie a knot at the end of your thread to prevent it from accidentally going through the fabric.

Start sewing at one corner of the patch, using small, even stitches to go around the edges. A running stitch, backstitch, or blanket stitch can be used, depending on your preference and the look you want to achieve. Ensure your stitches are close enough together to hold the patch securely.

Adhesive Patches

These patches come with a sticky backing designed to adhere directly to the fabric, making them ideal for smooth, non-textured materials. While adhesive patches are generally used for temporary applications, they can be a convenient option for quick fixes and decorative purposes.

Any dirt, oil, or moisture can interfere with the adhesive’s ability to stick. A quick wipe with a damp cloth followed by thorough drying is usually sufficient.

Carefully peel off the paper backing from the adhesive patch, exposing the sticky side. Take care not to touch the adhesive surface too much, as oils from your fingers can reduce its stickiness.

For added security, especially on items that will be handled frequently, press the patch down firmly for several seconds. Some adhesive patches can benefit from applying additional pressure with a hard, flat object to ensure a strong bond.