Embroidered Patch Design Basics
ALL OF OUR PATCHES COME WITH A COMPLETE SATISFACTION GUARANTEE!
THE CUSTOM PATCH
EXAMPLES BELOW SHOW THE QUALITY OF OUR WORK
(These are shown only as examples of patches that
we have made and are not for sale)
BACKGROUNDS The most common patch backgrounds are twill or fully embroidered. Twill is a smooth polyester fabric that is available in a fairly wide range of color choices. The background of a fully embroidered patch is embroidered with a fill stitch and offers more color choices and has a richer look than a twill patch in a comparative color. A twill background is more economical than a fully embroidered patch in the same size, but either way will be a good looking patch. We also have Chenille patches and reflective background patches.
Twill Background-Merrowed Border
Fully Embroidered-Merrowed Border
Fully Embroidered Stitched Border
Twill Background-Merrowed Border
BORDERS While a border is not a requirement, its purpose is to outline the patch and to provide a continuous color for a sewing channel if they are going to be sewn on. The most common borders are merrowed and satin stitched. A merrowed border is sewn on after the patch is embroidered and overlocks around its edge and is around 1/8" wide. Merrowing is used on patches that are of a symmetrical shape without a lot of sharp angles. A satin stitched border is embroidered into the patch and is cut to shape of the design with a laser cutting machine or by hand with a hot knife. Stitched borders are used where there is an irregular shaped design or where it is desired that the patch be flat and are usually between 1/16" and 1/8" wide.
Fully Embroidered-Stitched Border
Twill Background- Stitched Border
Twill Background- Stitched Border
DESIGN GUIDELINES Lettering size, color blends and fine detail are the most common considerations. Minimum height for satin stitch lettering is 3/16". For smaller lettering a running stitch is used. Running stitch is one thread width wide and follows the lettering. Although some color blends are possible, embroidery can’t duplicate print. For a line, the minimum width for a solid line is 1mm. Running stitches can be used for lines. We work with our customers to help them get the best result. Although our patches are sewn with polyester thread, other thread options include metallic gold or silver thread and glow in the dark thread.
Fully Embroidered Stitched Border
Fully Embroidered-Merrowed Border
Custom Security Patch
Custom Christian Patch
Custom Screen Printed Patch
Chenille Patch
Chenille Patch with Embroidery
BACKING The most common backing is a thin layer of PVC which is bonded to the back of the patch. PVC backing gives the patch body, which enables it to hold its shape on the garment. This patch is sewn on. Heat seal backing allowing for application with a heat press or iron is also a common backing. Heat seal works well but must be applied carefully, can't be used on all types of fabric and is not recommended for larger patches. It works best when applied with a heat press. Heat seal patches can't be removed once they are applied. Velcro backing is primarily used in enforcement and military applications. Sticky backs are primarily used for events where immediate application is a requirement. They can be removed and replaced a few times but they can't be laundered.
Velcro
