Custom Patches

Custom patches are one of the most important ways to promote your business, team, school, or agency, and can even spice up a drab wardrobe with the simple addition of a couple of Velcro patches or any other type of patches. Having the ability to customize your patches gives you unlimited freedom to express what you’re trying to say, in a crisp and effective manner.

Custom Patches – Twill, felt, velvet, 3M or fake fur

custom patchesSo what should you look for when trying to get custom patches? Typically, there are a variety of fabric options available, and this should be the first place to start. Most companies will offer their custom patches in five main categories: twill, felt, velvet, 3M reflective, or fake fur. It goes without saying that applying a fake fur custom patch to your school basketball uniforms is not the best idea, but would work perfectly on a letterman jacket. It’s always a good idea to keep in mind that function – not just form – is essential when choosing a custom patch.

Twill or felt are generally the most durable and have the longest lifespan. Have you ever seen a Boy Scout Badge? That is twill, chosen because it stands up even after repeated use in harsh conditions. If you are purchasing custom patches for a company, it’s especially important that you keep in mind their purpose. Police forces use 3M reflective patches so they can easily be identified as officers, even in low light conditions. This may also be useful for companies who need easy identification, such as construction crews, security companies, or even school crosswalks. Take a look at the different ways that your custom patch will be cut. You can decide on using a laser cut or a marrowed edge to keep it clean, or a Chenille (like a letterman jacket patch) or heat transfer if you are looking for additional detail.

Custom Patches – Shopping and designing

The best way to find a custom patch is to compare prices online from a variety of retailers. Many companies offer instant quotes, and finding the best price and quality is as simple as sending out a few e-mails and comparing the estimates they send back. Remember that even if you get a good deal, the quality may be different. This is alright if your patches will be worn occasionally, but if you will be constantly using them, the extra durability will more than make up for the cost of a few additional dollars at the beginning.

Designing custom patches is easy and fun, but there are a few key points to ensure that your product meets the high expectations you have for it. Embroidery has become incredibly detailed, but overdoing it can still make your patch look messy or unclean. Take some inspiration from traditional patches when designing your own, things like the military, police forces, or even clan crests. They are neat, clean, and effectively portray the message they want to communicate. Doing the same with your custom patch idea will dramatically increase the professionalism of your design and make your finished product exceed your expectations.