At American Patch, many of our customers aren’t sure which type of patch they should use for their artwork which is why we’ve put together this helpful guide. It is meant to help navigate you through the different types of custom made patches that are available. They include embroidered patches, woven patches, dye sublimation patches (photo or print) and more! If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to us today.
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Embroidered patches are best for clean-lined artwork with lettering at least ¼” tall or more. We would not recommend including gradients, small fine lines, or intricate detail. Embroidered patches give a raised traditional look to your patch. At American Patch we offer three types of borders for our embroidered patches, a traditional merrowed edge which is 1/8” thick. A laser-cut edge is best for intricate shapes, and the stitched edge which is also ideal for images cut to shape.
People often ask, how small can I make an embroidered patch? The answer is it depends on the amount of detail on the patch. The smaller you want to go, the less detail, wording, and color we recommend. We offer 8 thread colors in our base pricing but can include up to 12 thread colors. Backings offered for our embroidered patches include unbacked, heat seal, hook and loop, plastic, and pin.
Woven patches are best for designs with fine lines, small lettering, and detail in a small area. We do not recommend gradients on these designs either. Woven patches provide a clean flat image and look. They’re known for much more modern look than more traditional custom made patches (such as embroidered.)
At American Patch, we offer a merrowed edge and a laser-cut edge for our woven patches. There is a limit to 10 colors on this kind of patch. Backings offered include unbacked, heat seal, hook and loop, plastic, and pin.
Dye sublimation patches are perfect for designs that have small detail, gradients, and more than 12 colors in them. They are the best option if you are trying to recreate a design that is photographic in nature. The dye sublimation process is a literal exact replication of the image provided. With that being said, we need a 300 dpi image for the best possible replication of your image on your custom made patches.
Dye sublimation patches are a base twill that the image is sublimated onto. So, again, this provides a clean flat look similar to a woven patch. The borders offered are the same as woven as well, a traditional merrowed edge and a laser cut border. At American Patch, we offer unlimited colors on our dye sublimation patches. You can choose from a variety of backings including unbacked, heat seal, hook and loop, and plastic.
Felt patches have many of the same qualities of embroidered patches. They’re also ideal for clean lined artwork with lettering that’s at least ¼” tall. We’d recommend avoiding elaborate details, small fine lines, and gradients. Felt patches offer a classic look for your custom made patches.
We offer three types of borders for our felt patches including stitched or laser cut which is best for images cut in unique shapes and a traditional merrowed edge which is 1/8” thick. We offer eight thread colors in our base pricing for felt patches but can only include up to 12 thread colors. You can choose from unbacked, heat seal, hook and loop, plastic, and pin backings.
Bullion crest patches are meant for very simple designs. Because they are handmade they are larger in size. The bullion wire used is hand sewn into felt or backings. Since bullion crest patches are more of a specialty product, traditional borders are not offered.
At American Patch, we would recommend keeping the number of colors at around eight to help ensure clean and crisp looking custom made patches. You can select unbacked, heat seal, pin backed, and magnetic backings.
Our combination patches are best for designs that only have minimal parts that would not translate well to embroidery. Often, the background would be sublimated with wording or an image embroidered on top of the sublimated image. Combination patches provide a 3D look.
For combination patches, the traditional borders of merrowed, laser-cut, or stitched edge would apply. The amount of colors is unlimited because of the sublimation aspect. The traditional backings would also apply including unbacked, heat seal, hook and loop, and plastic.
Patches have long been a staple in the realms of fashion and functionality, serving as a medium for personal expression, identification, and even mending wear and tear. The choice between felt and embroidered patches is crucial, depending on the intended use and aesthetic preference. This article aims to delve into the nuances of felt and embroidered patches, comparing their characteristics, benefits, and limitations, to assist readers in making an informed selection tailored to their specific needs.
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Patches have a straightforward beginning: they were first and foremost practical, a means to mend clothing and gear. Over time, their role shifted. What began as a necessity quickly intertwined with personal and group identities, becoming emblems of affiliation, milestones, and personal statements. Whether it’s the rugged patches on a military uniform, the vibrant badges sewn onto a scout’s sash, or the custom designs adorning an artist’s denim jacket, patches tell a story.
Felt and embroidered patches each has its own set of advantages and is suited to different applications. Felt patches, with their soft texture and bold colors, offer a vintage appeal and a straightforward application. On the other hand, embroidered patches boast intricate designs with a texture that adds depth and sophistication to any item they adorn. Understanding these differences is key to choosing the right patch that not only meets your needs but also resonates with your style and values.
When you think of felt patches, imagine the cozy, fuzzy texture of felt fabric shaped into your design of choice. Made from pressed fibers, these patches exude a warm, inviting look that’s both simple and striking. Felt patches are characterized by their plush material, which makes colors pop and lends a handmade, crafty feel to any item they’re attached to.
Felt patches are often seen on casual wear, accessories like bags and hats, and even on decorative items. They’re a go-to for school logos, team mascots, or any design that benefits from a soft, raised texture and vibrant coloration. Their unique look and feel make them especially popular in settings that favor a more laid-back, artisanal aesthetic.
Embroidered patches are a work of art, where threads of various colors are intricately woven together to create detailed designs. These patches are known for their durability and the ability to capture complex logos, emblems, and artistic details with precision. The embroidery gives the design a slightly raised, textured look, adding depth and elegance to the patch.
Embroidered digitized patches are versatile and found on a wide range of items—from uniforms and professional attire to casual wear, bags, and caps embroidery digitizing. They’re a popular choice for organizations, military units, clubs, and teams looking to showcase their identity with clarity and sophistication. Thanks to their durability and high-quality appearance, embroidered patches are also favored for commemorative events and as collectibles.
When deciding between felt and embroidered patches, understanding the key differences helps in choosing the option that best suits your needs. Here’s a breakdown of their main characteristics:
I hope you’re enjoying reading our comparison blogs. I would also encourage you to read my guide on Flat Embroidery vs 3D Puff Embroidery this article covers everything you need to know about these 2 embroidery types.
Selecting between felt and embroidered patches comes down to several factors:
Applying Patches:
The choice between felt and embroidered patches hinges on understanding their distinct qualities and how they align with your needs. Contact Punch Digitizing whether you seek the tactile warmth of felt or the intricate detail of embroidered patches, we offer unique ways to express identity and style. Consider factors like durability, cost, and aesthetic appeal to guide your selection. Ultimately, the right patch not only enhances the item it adorns but also carries a piece of your story, making your choice deeply personal and impactful.