Patches will be part of your life if you have a scout, high school athlete, or clothes that you can’t say goodbye to. Patches not only patch a hole in clothing but can signify achievements or ranks. They can also be used as decoration to brighten up a plain jacket.
Patch attachment can seem overwhelming, but you’ll realize there’s nothing to it once you know the basics. Continue reading to find the best methods for how to attach patches.
Patch Attachment: Getting Started
Before you do anything, decide on the placement of your patch(es). Some patches have a specific location on the clothes (like a military jacket or letterman jacket).
If you’re placing more than one patch, make sure you arrange them on the clothing beforehand to ensure you have plenty of space for them all. Now the only thing you need to do is determine the right option for attaching your patch.
Needle and Thread
While old-fashioned, this method is still the most durable and permanent option. All you need to sew a patch on is a sturdy, thin needle, thread, thimble (optional), and a few pins.
Once you know where you want your patch, use two or more pins (depending on the size of the patch) to secure the patch to the clothing. This prevents it from slipping and being sewn on crooked.
Choose a thread color closest to the color immediately inside the border (not the color of the border itself). Thread about two to three inches through the eye of your needle.
Starting from the inside of the garment, pierce through the patch as close to the border as you can while staying in the interior space of the patch. Pull the thread through until there are only a few inches left of thread on the inside of the clothing.
Depending on the clothing and patch thickness, a thimble can save your finger from soreness trying to send it through over and over. Follow the inside of the border around the patch until you’ve returned the needle to where you started. Tie the remaining thread to the few inches you left at the beginning in a few knots to secure your patch.
Iron
Iron-on patches are easy to attach and only call for a normal iron, ironing board, and piece of thin fabric (like one side of a cotton pillowcase).
Whether your patch is an iron-on or you opt for heat-bonded adhesive on a traditional patch, the process is much the same. First, position your patch where you want it on the clothing. Lay the piece of fabric over the patch to protect the embroidery threads from the heat of the iron.
Turn your iron on to the highest setting safe for your clothing, and when it’s warmed up, set it down, covering the patch. Hold the iron still for 30 to 45 seconds. Fight the instinct to move the iron at all, as this can cause the patch to slip from its placement.
Adhesive
Adhesive patch attachment is definitely the easiest option, but it may not be the most permanent solution. Apply the adhesive or patch, attach glue to the back of your patch and remove the backing (if it is double-sided adhesive tape). Place your patch where you want it and allow it to dry for as long as the directions say.
Your Clothes Are Ready for Patch Attachment
Now that you know the best patch attachment methods, you’re ready to make that jacket or vest look its best.
For more DIY tips, check out our Tips & Tricks archive.