Exploring Different Types of Embroidery Patches

Embroidered patches are tiny artworks to personalize clothes and accessories. Custom embroidered patches offer wide range of creative choices

Understanding different types of embroidered patches will guide you in selecting the ideal patch.

This article will highlight the key features, uses and factors of different types of embroidered patches to make the right choice.

1. Patches with a Plastic Backing

Plastic-backed patches are among the most conventional types of custom patches. The plastic backing provides stiffness, helping the patch maintain its shape over time while remaining thin enough to be flexible. This type of backing ensures that your patch remains durable and retains its quality for years.

Pros:

• Maintains shape and rigidity
• Durable and long-lasting

Cons:

• Can be less flexible compared to other types

2. PVC Patches

These types of patches offer a modern take on classic embroidered patches. They are made from durable plastic, and are waterproof. Moreover, they can handle both hot and cold weather.

You have the flexibility to select from a range of colors and customize them into either 2D or 3D embroidered patches to personalize your item.

Pros:

• Waterproof and durable
• Available in vibrant colors and 3D designs

Cons:

• Less traditional appearance compared to embroidered patches

3. Name Patches

Name patches are all about showcasing your brand or personal touch. Whether it's your logo, slogan or signature, these patches are made in colors and materials that reflect your product or brand vibe. They're perfect for businesses aiming to unify their team's look without the hassle of formal ID cards. Simple and affordable, they're typically designed in just two colors for easy mass production.

Pros:

• Cost-effective
• Ideal for workplace identification

Cons:

• Limited design complexity

4. Printed Patches

Printed patches, also known as sublimation embroidery patches, bring your ideas to life with precision. Using a sublimation dyeing method, designs are directly printed onto a blank twill base, allowing for intricate details and vibrant images. They're ideal for quick projects needing high detail, like custom t-shirts, offering affordability and speedy delivery.

Pros:

• Highly detailed and precise designs
• Suitable for complex images and tight deadlines

Cons:

• Less textured than embroidered patches

5. Woven Patches

If you want to showcase intricate details in your logo, custom woven patches are perfect. Their tight weave ensures even the smallest letters stand out, making them ideal for precise text. These patches use thinner threads like embroidery but offer more flexibility for detailed designs, making them a versatile choice.

Pros:

• Detailed and intricate designs
• Smooth texture

Cons:

• Lack the raised texture of embroidered patches

6. Sew-On Patches

Sew-on patches feature visible threads on the back and are designed for direct stitching onto clothing or fabric. Being lightweight and flexible, they ensure durability for extended use and easy bulk storage.

Pros:

• Durable and long-lasting
• Flexible and easy to store

Cons:

• Requires sewing, which can be time-consuming

7. Magnet Patches

Magnet patches can adhere to any metal surface due to the thin magnetic sheet. They can also be affixed to clothing by placing another magnet behind the fabric, allowing for adaptability and versatility.

Pros:

• Easy to attach and remove
• Reusable and versatile

Cons:

• Limited to use on metal surfaces or with an opposing magnet

8. Embroidered Patches

If you want designs that really stand out, embroidered patches are your best bet. They have a unique texture and depth, and you can choose from hundreds of thread colors to match any design. Plus, they’re affordable and quick to make.

Pros:

• Rich texture and depth
• Wide range of thread colors

Cons:

• Less detail compared to printed or woven patches

9. Chenille Patches

Custom chenille patches are back in style for their cozy, wooly feel. They're great for simple designs and lettering, perfect on warm caps, socks, and sweaters. These patches are also popular on varsity jackets, giving them a classic and textured look.

Pros:

• Vibrant and whimsical appearance
• Classic, textured look

Cons:

• Less detail compared to other types

10. Leather Patches

Embroidered leather patches are embossed or printed leather pieces that can be added to jackets, hats, bags, and other items.

They offer a stylish and refined look and come in both real and synthetic leather varieties.

Pros:

• Versatile and stylish
• Available in genuine and faux leather

Cons:

• More expensive than some other types

11. Bullion Patches

Bullion patches are all about luxury. They've got this fancy wire stitching that makes them look three-dimensional, with gold and silver threads. Elite clubs and the military love them, but they do come with a velvet backing and a higher price tag, and they take a bit longer to craft.

Pros:

• High-end, luxurious look
• Three-dimensional and textured

Cons:

• Expensive and time-consuming to produce

12. Adhesive Backing Patches

Adhesive backing patches are easy to apply, as they come with a sticky adhesive that can be peeled off and stuck onto surfaces.

While convenient, they are not as durable as other types of patches.

Pros:

• Easy to apply
• Convenient for temporary use

Cons:

• Less durable than other patches

Final Words

Embroidery patches offer versatility for showing style, marking events, or promoting a brand. Choosing the perfect type of embroidery patches depends on what you need it for, whether it's military uniforms, sports jerseys, or club jackets. Factors such as cost, material, durability and texture are to be considered.

These patches serve more than just decorative purposes—they are effective tools for branding and personalization. Whether you choose classic embroidered patches, modern PVC patches, or custom applique patches, each type offers distinct advantages.

Knowing these differences enables you to choose patches that best represent your identity or message.