Embroidered Patches

An embroidered patch is a design stitched with thread onto a fabric base - typically twill, felt, or canvas - then cut to shape and finished with a merrowed border, die-cut edge, or heat-sealed backing. The patch is produced separately and then applied to clothing, hats, bags, jackets, or uniforms using iron-on, sew-on, Velcro, or adhesive backing.

Thread density, stitch type, and border style all affect the final look. Most custom embroidered patches use:

• *Satin stitch - smooth, flat coverage for solid fill areas and text

• *Fill stitch (tatami) -used for large background areas to reduce bulk

• *Running stitch - outlines, fine details, and lettering

• *3D puff embroidery - raised foam underlayer for logos and letters that need dimension

Embroidery coverage typically ranges from 50% to 80% of the patch surface. Designs with fine gradients, photorealistic detail, or very small text work better in woven or printed patches - our team flags these during artwork review.

• *Iron-on (heat-applied) most popular; heat-activated adhesive bonds to fabric with a household iron or commercial heat press. Best for jackets, bags, denim, and hats with flat panels.

• *Sew-on - no backing; patch is stitched directly onto the garment. Most permanent and durable option for uniforms, tactical gear, and workwear.

• *Velcro - hook-and-loop backing for swappable patches. Common for military, tactical, morale builds, and brands offering interchangeable patch panels.

• *Peel-and-stick (adhesive) - pressure-sensitive adhesive for quick temporary placement. Best for display, events, and short-term applications.

• *No backing - raw patch for buyers who will apply their own backing or have a specific attachment method.

• *Merrowed border : the standard overlocked edge; raised thread border that frames the patch and prevents fraying. Available in any thread color.

• *Die-cut (laser-cut) edge: patch cut to the exact shape of the design with no border. Clean, modern finish for complex shapes and character outlines.

• *Hot-cut edge : heat-sealed edge that prevents fraying without a merrowed border. Common for patches that need a flat, borderless look.

• *Embroidered border : border stitched as part of the design rather than added as an overlock. Used when the border color needs to match the design precisely.

• *Jackets and outerwear

Sleeve patches, chest patches, and full back patches on denim, leather, canvas, and nylon jackets.

Common for motorcycle clubs, workwear brands, varsity jackets, and streetwear.

• *Hats and caps

Front panel, side panel, and under visor patch placement.

Works on trucker hats, Richardson 112s, dad hats, beanies, and cowboy hats.

• *Uniforms and workwear

Name patches, rank patches, department logos, and unit insignia.

Used by law enforcement, security firms, hospitality staff, construction crews, and military units.

• *Bags and backpacks

Front pocket, side panel, and strap patch placement.

Popular for school bags, tactical packs, and branded merchandise.

• *Clothing - jeans, shirts, vests

Knee patches, pocket patches, chest patches, and decorative appliques.

Common in denim fashion, streetwear, biker vests, and DIY clothing customization.

• *Sports and team uniforms

Jersey numbers, team logos, tournament patches, and commemorative badges.

Used across football, soccer, baseball, hockey, and martial arts.

Step 1 — Upload your design

Upload any AI, PDF, PNG, JPG, or SVG file using the uploader on this page. No embroidery files (.DST or .EMB) needed - our team digitizes your artwork in-house at no charge.

Step 2 — Choose your specs

Patch size (width × height in inches)

Border style - merrowed, die-cut, or hot-cut

Backing - iron-on, sew-on, Velcro, adhesive, or none

Thread colors - up to 15 colors per patch; Pantone matching available

Step 3 — Approve your free physical proof

Before production begins, we produce a physical embroidered sample of your patch. You review and approve it. No surprises on the final order.

Step 4 — Production and delivery

Once approved, your order goes into production. Orders of 100+ pieces ship free within the US. Add design notes at checkout if you have specific placement, color matching, or construction requirements.

Upload Your Design & Get Instant Pricing →

Businesses and brands : logo patches for uniforms, branded merch, and retail product lines

Sports teams : jersey patches, tournament badges, and commemorative designs

Military and law enforcement : unit insignia, rank patches, name patches, and flag patches

Motorcycle clubs : rocker patches, back patches, and chapter insignia

Schools and universities : letterman patches, department badges, and event patches

Small businesses : staff name patches for hospitality, retail, and service industries

DIY and fashion : retro embroidered patches, vintage designs, and custom clothing repair

Event organizers : commemorative patches for hiking events, scout troops, and charity runs

Wholesale buyers : bulk embroidered patches for resale, uniform programs, and merchandise distribution