Sewing patches onto your clothes or bags is such a vibe.
It’s the easiest way to flex your style, rescue your favorite pieces from the "donate" pile, or just give your wardrobe a glow-up.
From bold embroidered patches that pop to soft chenille ones that scream cozy, each patch has its own aesthetic.
But if you want your patches to look clean and polished, the tools you use (like the needle size) totally matter.
It’s the secret sauce to smooth sewing and pro-level results.
In this guide, we’ll spill the tea on the right needle sizes for different patch types and some tips to keep your patches securely in place.
The needle size to use for sewing on a patch right away influences the quality of your job.
A tiny needle may not penetrate thick materials fruitfully, while an oversized needle can damage delicate fabrics.
Furthermore, different types of patches and garments preferred dissimilar needle types and sizes to ensure a secure attachment without spoiling the fabric.
These patches typically have a sturdy backing that provides durability and structure.
For attaching embroidered custom patches.
Compared to embroidered patches, custom woven patches are more flexible and thinner.
They require less force to sew:
Custom chenille patches are plush and textured, often used for varsity jackets or other thick garments:
These patches are unique because of their durable and flexible rubber material.
Sewing these patches requires extra care:
For those using a sewing machine, selecting the correct needle ensures smooth stitching.
When sewing by hand, choose needles designed for your fabric and patch type.
Use temporary adhesive spray or pins to hold the patch in place.
This is especially helpful for Custom Woven Patches or lightweight materials where alignment is crucial.
No matter what type of patch you're working with, sewing around the edges twice will help ensure it stays securely attached over time.
Match the thread to the patch and fabric.
For thick patches like chenille patches, use heavy-duty thread.
For decorative purposes, consider embroidery floss for a vibrant finish.
Always test your needle and thread combination on a scrap piece of fabric to avoid surprises.
| Patch Type | Fabric Type | Recommended Needle Size |
|---|---|---|
| Custom Patches | Medium Fabrics | 14/90 Universal |
| Thick Fabrics | 16/100 Denim | |
| Woven Patches | Lightweight Fabrics | 11/75 Universal |
| Medium Fabrics | 12/80 Universal | |
| Chenille Patches | Thick Fabrics | 16/100 Denim or Heavy duty |
| Rubber Patches | Leather/Thick Fabrics | 16/100 or 18/110 Leather |
Selecting the right needle size to use to sew on a patch is hands down the game-changer. It’s the difference between a patch that looks store-bought and one that screams DIY-gone-wrong.
The type of patch, fabric, and thread will decide which needle to use that give you the best results.
For most projects, a size 14/90 universal needle works well, but thicker materials may reach for a size 16/100 denim needle or bigger.
Sewing patches is such a fun and creative way to upgrade your clothes especially when you’ve got the right tools and a plan in mind.
Follow these tips to make your patches not only functional but also a fashionable addition to your clothing.
Use a sturdy needle like a denim needle, size 80 or larger, and secure the patch with glue or pins before sewing.
Yes, smaller needles create tighter stitches, while larger needles work better for thicker materials.