Congratulations! You have received your custom patches, and now, you can't wait to use them on your favorite product. However, there is an issue; you don't know how to iron on custom patches. Don't worry; you are not alone; many people worldwide don't know about the subject. Luckily, the blog will guide you on the best ways to use your patches. So, without further adieu, let's get started by answering the question:
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What are iron-on custom patches?
Most custom patches come with a backing, and an iron-on is one of those backings; it is a thin plastic backing coated with a special adhesive. The glue activates and melts when it gets hot, sealing the personalized patch onto the material of your choice.
Previously, patches like military, scout, etc., were hand-stitched. But, with the technological advancements, we have got various types of adhesives for quick application. You can create customized patches with colors and designs and use them efficiently.
Although you can have different backings, embroidered patches work pretty well with an iron-on backing. After creating embroidery patches, a thin layer of plastic seals over the back to give more security to stitching. A layer of adhesive is used to coat the plastic afterward.
The embroidered patches have a thick layer of thread and a thin layer of plastic resting on top of the adhesive. It would help if you had a lot of heat to penetrate the layers and melt the glue. However, you don't want to overheat that it scorches the thread or melts the backing. It could also damage the garment and ruin the patch.
The suitable heat for applying iron-on embroidered patches is 270-degree Fahrenheit. But, most household irons don't come with a digital temperature setting. You can read the manual, but, let's face it, you are not going to search for it. You can use the information: for "cotton," the irons reach a temperature of 275-degree F. Before starting, you need to check the heat sensitivity of the garment. You can find the information on the manufacturer's label inside the garment. E.g., a fabric made of cotton will handle more heat than fabric like nylon, athletic clothes, leather, etc.
The time to hold onto the patch will vary according to the size and thickness, and you can get the information when buying the patches. Generally, pressing at least 30 seconds is recommended for thoroughly securing it.
On a shirt/ jacket:
Using an embroidered patch on a jacket, shirt, hoodie, etc., is relatively easy because of the large flat surface to place the patch. You can start by reading the manufacturer's label to ensure it is safe to iron on the fabric. E.g., you don't want to iron a silk shirt.
Set your iron to a temperature of 270- degrees F. Home irons have "cotton" marked on them and will be the setting for the purpose.
Figure out where you want to use the patch. You can use a measuring tape and chalk to mark the spot. E.g., for wearing the patch, you can measure equal distances from the side seam.
After marking the spot on the cloth, you need to pre-press the area; it will remove any wrinkles.
You also want to iron the inside of the cloth and not sweep the iron from side to side - only press down the spot.
Parchment paper:
Some manufacturers suggest using silicone-coated parchment paper instead of using a pressing cloth. It is cheap, effective, and heat resistant.
Work clothes:
Most business apparel uses fabrics that may melt/ scorch when exposed to high temperatures. You need to read the label carefully. E.g., If the label has a picture of iron with an "X" mark or "dry clean only," don't apply the patch.
If you are an employer, it would be better to provide detailed information to employees, so they don't ruin their work clothes.
Jeans:
You can easily use iron-on patches on jeans or denim. They contain cotton that sticks with the adhesive backing and resists high temperatures, and it makes jeans an ideal choice for using embroidered patches.
You need to follow all the basic instructions mentioned above, and the only difference is putting something inside the pant legs to protect the reverse side. You can use a piece of parchment paper or cardboard to avoid gluing pants legs.
Leather:
One of the most common questions is, can your iron-on patch be on leather? The answer is yes and no. It would help if you did not use heat directly on leather. However, you can use iron to help put the patch on a leather surface.
You can also use heat to iron the patch onto a fabric scrap and sew it onto the leather. It is a better and more permanent method of applying embroidered patches on leather.
Shoes:
Custom embroidered patches on canvas shoes look exceptional; they give your footwear a unique personality. You need a few additional steps to adhere to patches on more rounded surfaces.
With a hair straightener:
You can sometimes use a flat iron or hair straightener as an alternative to an iron; they also come with a digital temperature reading making them easier for patches. Additionally, the double pads allow you to heat the back and front simultaneously, and you can complete the process quickly.
However, it works best on small objects like hats, headbands, cuffs, collars, etc. It is challenging to reach the middle of a shirt or the knee of jeans.
Polyester:
Ironing-on custom patches on polyester are similar to cotton, but you will need to use lower temperatures and longer pressing time. You can use high temperatures and place a thick cotton fabric like a cotton t-shirt between the patch and the iron.
You can avoid the risk of damaging your apparel by using fabric glue to hold the patch in place. You can also sew the patch more safely and permanently.
Do iron-on patches last long?
Iron-on patches are durable with solid adhesive; they remain firmly in place if left undisturbed. But, moisture, movements, friction, etc., can make the patch peel away. E.g., if you wear your denim jacket covered in patches in the rain, the patches can retain some moisture, and they could slowly curl up and peel away. If you've put patches on the knee of the pants, constant movement will wear out the glue faster. You may want to add a hand-sewn whipstitch around the patch's edge to avoid the issue.
Which is better: iron-on or sewing?
It will depend on many factors, like how roughly you use the apparel or product. Iron-on patches give faster but semi-secure results; you need to sew the patches for a permanent effect. You can sew the patch into place for products like backpacks, shoes, etc., that you would wear often. However, an iron-on option is better if you want to use a tiny patch on a shirt once or twice a year; it will save a lot of time sewing.
Conclusion:
We hope you have all the information regarding how to iron on custom embroidered patches. But, before ironing, you would need to manufacture them. With numerous manufacturers, you need to trust the one with years of expertise and reliability like EveLighten. They are trusted by startups, large organizations, sports teams, nonprofits, colleges, universities, and celebrities for their custom products, including custom patches.
"I've gotten better quality, amazing details, friendly customer service, and lower prices from EverLighten." These are the words from the Heating and Cooling Co., Ltd. after receiving their custom patches from us. The company was tired and frustrated with their searching for a manufacturer able to provide high-quality custom patches, and they were elated and 100% satisfied with our work quality.
Read the complete story here, https://everlighten.com/blogs/success-stories/company-the-heating-and-cooling-co-ltd.
Benefits of partnering with EverLighten:
Best pricing: They are a factory for producing custom patches and not intermediaries, ensuring customers always get the best prices.
Quality in every product: They use top-quality materials and the latest processes to produce embroidery patches.
Fast turnaround time: They provide the quickest turnaround time for every order.
24*7 support: Customers can contact them 24*7 for their queries resolution; they reply within half an hour.
Real people, fabulous service: EverLighten loves helping; they offer various options.
Free design help and unlimited customization: Your patch design will look as you imagined with help from in-house designers.
No minimum order requirement: You can order any number of patches you need; they accept every order without a minimum limit.
Worldwide shipping: They deliver worldwide, and customers can track their orders online with an order tracking tool.
For more information, queries and design, visit https://everlighten.com/products/custom-embroidered-patches.
FAQs:
What are iron-on patches?
Iron-on patches have a thin plastic backing coated with a heat-activated adhesive. When ironed, the glue melts, securing the patch to your fabric.
How do I iron on a patch?
The process is simple!
Check the fabric:
Ensure the garment can withstand ironing (consult the care label).
Set the iron:
Aim for a temperature around 270°F (often the "cotton" setting).
Prepare the area:
Preheat and smooth where you will place the patch.
Position the patch:
Place the patch exactly where you want it.
Iron firmly:
Use a pressing cloth and apply firm pressure for 30 seconds (adjust the time based on patch size/thickness).
Repeat (optional):
Iron the patch from the garment's reverse side for extra security.
Tips & Tricks:
If you are looking for more details, kindly visit SCICO CARE.
Parchment paper:
Use it to protect the patch from excessive heat (not for adhesion).
Work clothes:
Be cautious with delicate fabrics. Opt for sewing or consult a professional for heat-sensitive materials.
Jeans:
Jeans are a helpful choice for iron-on patches due to their durability.
Leather:
Avoid direct heat on leather. Use fabric glue or sew the patch on for a more permanent solution.
Shoes:
Stuff shoes with paper to create a flat surface for ironing.
Alternatives to irons:
Hair straighteners:
A hair straightener with a temperature setting can be an option for small patches on hats or collars.
Iron-on vs. Sewing:
Iron-on:
Faster but less permanent, ideal for occasional use.
Sewing:
More permanent and secure, better for frequently used items.
Do iron-on patches last?
While durable, constant movement and moisture can loosen the adhesive. Consider adding a hand-sewn stitch for extra security.
Custom patches are one of the best ways to cost-effectively brand a uniform, personalize apparel, and decorating accessories. An attractive logo patch adds a level of professionalism that reflects well on your company, organization, or special event.
Until recently, patches have been more costly than other customization options. The good news is that advancements in production techniques have brought that cost down and the minimum quantities.
The best part of all, today's patches come in a variety of new styles, some of which are truly eye-popping. This article briefly introduces each style so you can decide which is best for your brand, along with design tips, placement standards, and more to help you learn how to make patches.
Contents:
A variety of styles means there are many distinct possibilities and options'it also means different design considerations for each. Let's look at the characteristics of each type of custom patch and design tips.
Embroidered patches have the classic look of direct embroidery but without commitment. They're created with high-quality, colorfast polyester threads and fabrics made to withstand industrial washes. Embroidered patches are an excellent choice for garments, bags, and hats in standard sizes and custom die-cut shapes.
Pro tip: for embroidered patches
Keep the design simple. Small text and details can sometimes get lost in the stitching, while gradients and photorealistic images can be difficult to reproduce. Simplified logos and designs tend to work best.
3D embroidered patches include a layer of EVA foam in certain areas under the stitching, giving it a raised, three-dimensional look. Select areas of emphasis to make them the most prominent on the patch, which creates an eye-catching look. This style has become wildly popular, especially on athletic apparel and team hats.
Pro tip: 3D embroidered patches
Selecting the most prominent element in your logo to be the raised embroidered part emphasizes contrast and will make the patch design truly stand out.
Offering a full-color palate and a high level of detail, sublimation is a form of digital printing that starts with white material and permanently dyes it. Sublimated patches are great for the accurate reproduction of photorealistic images and logos, as well as gradients and subtle blends. They are used in a variety of applications, such as staff uniforms.
Pro tip: Sublimated patches
Keep the design simple to ensure that any logo or text used can be seen from a distance. Also keep in mind that there is a subtle texture to the fabric that is printed on.
Print Stitch patches combine embroidery and sublimation. The background is printed with a full-color, photographic image and then embroidery stitched into it, giving dimension and texture. This type of patch offers photorealism with texture and can be used in a wide range of applications.
Pro tip: Print Stitch patches
Select a simple central element or text for embroidery, while reserving the more complicated elements for sublimation to achieve the best results.
Also known as PV+ patches, rubber patches are the latest trend and newest technology for customized emblems. The uniquely flexible, smooth surface and three-dimensional look have everyone asking about them. A patch like this can elevate any item with its clean, modern, branded look.
Pro tip: Rubber patches
Rubber patches are ideal for heavier fabric and structured garments, such as jackets, hats, and bags, but less ideal for lighter fabrics and garments because of the weight.
Leather patches are the way to go if you want a simple, classic, rugged, or rustic look. Available in both genuine and faux (fake) materials, these patches are laser engraved to create a distinctive, monochromatic look. And they match almost any style. Keep in mind that Faux Leather patches can be washed, but not Genuine Leather.
Pro tip: Leather and Faux Leather patches
Due to the materials, a full color palate can't be used, so the design file needs to be in black and white (although the final product will be brown, tan, etc). Optimize the look by using a classic patch shape, and adding borders or fake stitch lines.
The newest style people are going crazy for, FlexStyle patches are undeniably attention-grabbing. Soft and flexible with textures, FlexStyle patches bring dimensionality and dramatic finishes, making for an impressive-looking emblem. These are not only applied to garments, but also flat surfaces of all types. They're like stickers on steroids.
There are four styles to choose from:
Pro tip: FlexStyle patches
Consider the design to select the best style. The Beveled style works best for angular desings, while Domed is a better choice for designs with soft edges. The Textured style is thin and a good choice for lightweight garments such as soccer jerseys.
There are two ways to affix custom patches, and they make for two different uses: 'Heat Seal' is for garments and other soft goods like bags, and 'Sticky' is for self-sticking to hard goods like glasses, mugs, laptops, and phones cases, etc.
The primary method is heat-pressing the patches onto garments and other items of your choice in the location of your choice. Heat seal is the choice for staff uniforms, team shirts, company swag, merchandise, promotional products, and premium fashion branding.
A great patch will elevate any product and bump up the value of retail items.
Can these patches be ironed-on to garments at home?
We don't recommend it. Heat seal patches require a specialized press that applies a specific temperature (to both sides), at a specific pressure, for a specific time. Ironing it on at home risks the patch not being affixed properly, and/or damage to the garment.
Sticky patches have a strong adhesive backing that will adhere to almost any flat, non-porous surface. The ideal way to use these is as promotional giveaways or merch, and then people can stick them to whatever they want: glasses, mugs, laptops, cases, guitar cases, tool boxes, record boxes, cars, refrigerators, doors, luggage, and more.
For that reason, make sure your design is something that people would want to see on their personal items.
Are Sticky Patches permanent?
Sticky Patches use an industrial-strength glue, so they're made to stay affixed. Within 48 hours the bond fully sets, after which its durable enough to withstand a dishwasher. For best results, make sure the surface is clean, non-porous, and free of waterproofing.
Applying some basic design principles can make a good custom patch great.
Where you put the patch is almost as important as the design itself. Sometimes the standard placement is the way to go (uniforms, for example). Or you may want to consider alternative locations to stand apart from the crowd (merch, for example).
Patches are more popular and affordable than ever, and there have never been more options to customize apparel. Plus, learning how to make patches has never been easier. We're confident that you'll get fantastic results by applying this information when making your next custom patch. Feel free to get in touch with any questions, our art department and project specialists are always here to help.
Are you interested in learning more about Custom Adhesive Patches? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!