Explore 7 Different Types of Patches and Their Uses

Patches are tiny pieces of leather, PVC, fabric, or another material with patterns, symbols, or logos on them. For many years, they have served as more than just decorations; they add flair to apparel and accessories, tell stories, and signify excellence. Whether it’s soldiers adorned with badges of honor or teenagers customizing denim jackets, these patches have always reached people’s lives.

People love patches because they are adaptable, useful, and for some it’s a way to show their individuality. According to some, patches are collectibles that have specific designs, titles, or thoughts. They are also necessary for uniforms, which stand for honor and participation in the armed forces, scouts, sports organizations, and educational institutions. They instantly make everyday items more charming, which appeals to consumers and trendsetters alike.

In this blog, we’ll explore the most popular patch types and their uses..

7 Types of Patches You Need to Know

1. Embroidered Patches

Embroidered patches are a traditional, quality, and durable technique used for branding logos, team players, flags, or bold text.

They are popular for branding uniforms, identifying clubs and schools, and adding flair to jackets, jeans, and bags. These patches are durable, withstand daily wear, multiple washings, and outdoor use, making them an affordable choice. They combine fashion, culture, and reliability, making them an ideal choice for advertising, uniforms, or fashion.

2. Woven Patches

Woven patches are popular for their fine details and smooth surface, making them ideal for fashion brands, clothing labels, and accessories.

They are thinner and lighter, making them suitable for delicate fabric and shirts without bulk. Woven patches add vibrancy to designs, highlighting tiny symbols or motifs overlooked by embroidery. They offer comfort and clarity in a modern way, making them ideal for daily use.

3. PVC / Rubber Patches

PVC patches, also known as rubber patches, are durable, waterproof, and weatherproof plastic patches used in outdoor clothing, sports uniforms, protective apparel, military, and law enforcement.

They offer a 3D appearance, making logos and icons pop out. PVC patches can be multicolored, embossed, or debossed, and have glow-in-the-dark effects, making them attractive for creative pursuits and stylish accessories. They can withstand heat, rain, and regular use without losing their bright appeal.

4. Chenille Patches

Chenille patches, known for their unique texture and retro vibe, are popular in schools and universities for celebrating academic achievements.

They add a touch of nostalgia to clothing and are suitable for bolder graphics. These patches also express respect and heritage, bringing back the vintage charm of warm, personal patches.

5. Leather Patches

Any item can benefit from the stylish and durable addition of leather patches, which are ideal for branding and enhancing the look of clothing, bags, and accessories.

Denim companies commonly use them as a quality mark because they are durable enough to resist deterioration. Because of their vintage appeal, they are a popular choice for those who want a mixture of durability and class.

6. Applique Patches:

Adding appliqué patches to clothing, purses, or home décor is a smart way to add charm. Their textured look is created by sewing layers of fabric onto a base. These patches’ soft and handmade look makes it popular in fashion, and there are many options for fabrics, colors, and layering types. Applique patches offer greater design options and choice than PVC or embroidered patches.

7. Printed Patches:

When compared to other patch types, printed patches are known for their capacity to create delicate designs on fabric. They are perfect for clothes, event giveaways, and advertising items. 

They are liked by companies, clubs, and campaigns because they are lightweight and affordable for bulk purchases. Printed patches are a great option for maximum creativity with little effort because they produce vibrant designs even though they lack the textured feel of leather or embroidery.

How to Use Different Types of Patches

Patches can be used on a variety of items, such as backpacks, denim, hats, and jackets. They add charm to any fashion items, and uniforms highlight identities. Patches are not only collectibles but can also tell narratives about events, teams, or journeys. Additionally, they are ideal for DIY alteration projects to allow people to express what they like by adding objects or recycling old clothing.

Some Commonly Ask Questions About Patches

Q1: Can all patches be ironed on?

Most iron-on patches can, but embroidered, leather, and chenille patches usually need to be sewn.

Q2: How do I sew a patch properly?

Use a strong needle and matching border thread to stitch around every edge for a secure finish.

Q3: Which patch lasts the longest?

PVC and embroidered patches are the most durable and long-lasting options.

Q4: Can patches be used on all types of fabric?

Most fabrics are suitable, but sensitive or stretchy materials work better for sewing than ironing.

Q5: How do I clean embroidered or PVC patches?

The safest approach is hand washing; PVC can be wiped clean, but embroidered patches should be gently cleaned.

Conclusion

From the classic embroidered patches to the more modern PVC patterns, patches are symbols of fashion and creativity. They are used for many things, such as clothing collecting and professional identity. Numerous patch types exist, such as woven, embroidered, leather, chenille, PVC, Velcro, iron-on, and leather. They can be mixed and matched to create designs.

Consider the message you want to convey when you go through patches and pick the right one to be featured in your story.