Embroidered patches provide a quick way to personalize one’s jackets, uniforms, backpacks, working clothes, and any other type of fabric products. In case your embroidered patch can be sewn onto the fabric using a heat-activated glue, there is no need for sewing. The correct way to iron on embroidered patches is a must for you to get a nice-looking and firmly connected result.

There are basically several stages in the process, including placing the patch, protecting the embroidery, applying heat and pressure, and letting the glue cool down.

This article provides you with all necessary information about the process, suitable fabrics, typical errors during the ironing, washing tips, and when you should stitch a patch additionally.

What Are Iron On Embroidered Patches?

Iron on embroidered patches are patches made of fabric that have an adhesive backing which can stick easily when subjected to heat.

The iron on embroidered patches are used in the following ways to brand or decorate various items:

Denim jackets

  • Uniforms
  • Tote bags
  • Backpacks
  • Team apparel
  • Workwear
  • School clothing
  • Promotional merchandise

Whereas conventional patch embroidery has to be sewn, adhesive backings make it easier to stick them on within just a few minutes. The embroidery of the top layer makes them look textured and professional while the backing helps in their easy application.

The same customized embroidered patches can be ordered by organizations requiring them for branding purposes.

Things You Need Before Applying an Embroidered Patch

Before getting started, prepare all the essential tools that you will require. This is because this will avoid the risk of shifting the patch when the heat is applied.

You will usually need:

  • An iron
  • A firm, heat-resistant surface
  • The embroidered patch
  • The garment or fabric
  • A thin cotton cloth or pressing cloth

It is important to verify the care tag on the clothing fabric before proceeding to use the heat process. There are some fabrics that can melt, crease, and even discolor because of excessive heat.

It is also vital to review the directions provided along with the patch. Different adhesives require different times and temperatures of heating.

In case you want to learn how to apply embroidered patches without sewing, then heat-sensitive backings are one of the simplest ways to do this.

Steps for Ironing On Embroidered Patches

This technique illustrates the process of ironing on embroidered patches without causing damage to both the patch design and the garment.

Step 1: Correct Patch Positioning

Place the fabric on the table and smooth away any wrinkles in it.

Properly determine the patch placement before the heating process. It is crucial to be sure that the design of the patch is properly placed in relation to the design of the clothing item.

Moving the patch will be hard once the bonding process commences.

For branded and uniform clothes, precision in placement is extremely crucial as an inaccurate positioning of a logo might be very unprofessional.

Step 2: Place a Layer over the Embroidery

Place a piece of cotton material or pillow case between the iron and the embroidered patch.

It will help prevent the thread from getting into contact with the iron. In addition, it may be used to prevent flattening of raised stitches and any damage to the patch surface.

Try not to apply the iron to the embroidery unless it is suggested by the manufacturer.

For those who are learning to apply embroidered patches, it might come as very helpful advice.

Step 3: Apply Heat and Firm Pressure

Iron the patch according to the instructions provided by the patch manufacturer along with the fabric material.

A good amount of heat may be between medium and high. However, a low setting might be required for more delicate materials.

Turn off steam unless specified by the patch manufacturer. It is advised to use dry heat as it works better on the adhesive than excess moisture which reduces its bonding effectiveness.

The iron should be pressed against the patched area for about 20 to 30 seconds.

Unlike ironing a shirt, moving the iron up and down should be avoided as it does not work effectively when it comes to the heat distribution of the adhesive.

The garment is meant to be inside out and ironed on the reverse side for about 10 to 20 seconds.

While searching for the technique of ironing the embroidered patches, one has to remember that both pressure and heat are very important factors.

Step 4: Allow the Adhesive to Cool Down

Take the iron away and allow the place to cool down itself.

Do not try to pull the patch immediately. It will take some time for the glue to become hardened when cooling down.

After a few minutes, it will be possible to check the corners of the patch. In case one corner starts coming up, place the design back down, and use heat for a brief amount of time again.

This is the key point in your process of learning how to iron a patch.

Best Fabrics for Heat-Applied Patches

It is very much dependent on what kind of fabric you use.

There are some fabrics that will withstand the process without getting damaged, while others might get burned before the adhesive is heated up properly.

Cotton

It is one of the best options, since this kind of fabric holds up well under heat and provides a good base for applying adhesive patches.

Denim

Denim jackets, jeans, vests, and bags are perfect materials too. They are durable enough to withstand the necessary temperatures for application.

Canvas

Canvas is another fabric that is used for bags, uniforms, accessories, workwear, etc.

Cotton Blends

There are many cotton/polyester blends that are good too, just remember to check the garment care label.

Extra care is needed with:

  • Nylon
  • Polyester
  • Leather
  • Waterproof fabric
  • Vinyl
  • Stretch fabrics
  • Delicate synthetic materials

The fabric may melt, contract, wrinkle, or even appear glossy under the influence of heat.

Should the garments not endure the specified temperatures, sewing may be considered as an alternative solution to attaching embroidered patches.

Mistakes To Avoid

It is important to know that even a great patch may not function correctly in case of its improper application. Avoiding some mistakes might help make your project look better and last longer.

Excessively High Temperature

High temperature does not guarantee a stronger bond.

It may ruin the clothes, damage the embroidery threads, or affect the sticky coating. Follow always the required temperature recommendations.

Steam

Steam provides additional moisture that might affect the sticky coating.

Do not use steam if the instructions do not suggest it.

Moving the Iron Constantly

For the patch to adhere properly, it requires heat and pressure applied in a specific area.

Constantly moving the iron around may hinder proper heating of the adhesive.

Skipping the Protective Cloth

Heat may influence the texture or finish of the embroidery.

Placing the pressing cloth between the garment and the iron serves as an additional layer of protection and does not hinder bonding of the adhesive.

Checking the Patch Too Soon

Adhesive continues curing while it is cooling down.

Touching the patch too soon after ironing may undermine the process of bonding.

Neglecting Fabric Compatibility

The most frequent misconception in regard to ironing patches is that all fabrics need to be treated the same way in terms of temperature.

Always remember about the fabric you use.

When it comes to branded patches, the good job of applying the patch is only one of the elements affecting the final outcome. The other one is embroidery which is applied to the patch and heavily depends on the quality of artwork preparation. Professional embroidery digitizing can come in handy for improving the results in this situation.

How to Prolong the Lifespan of an Embroidered Patch

Proper application is vital; however, aftercare can play a role as well in determining the longevity of the patch.

It is recommended that one waits at least 24 hours before washing the item of clothing.

For better durability:

  • Turn the garment inside out before washing.
  • Use a gentle wash cycle.
  • Avoid very hot water.
  • Use mild detergent.
  • Avoid excessive heat during drying.
  • Never scrub the patch directly.

Continued washing, rubbing, and heating would ultimately deteriorate the glue backing.

If the patch is going to be applied on uniform, children’s wear, jacket, or any item that is used regularly, then it would be wise to stitch a few stitches around it as well.

In case of patches carrying logo designs of any company, it is equally necessary to prepare the artwork. Professional logo digitizing can help convert logo details into embroidery-friendly stitch instructions for cleaner production.

When Should You Sew the Patch Instead?

The use of heat is convenient, but it is not always the ideal solution.

Sewing is a better option when:

  • The clothing is frequently laundered.
  • The fabric cannot tolerate high heat.
  • The patch will be exposed to heavy friction.
  • The item is used outdoors.
  • You want a more permanent attachment.

Both can be used together as well. First use heat to attach the patch and then stitch it on the edge for additional strength.

It is particularly effective when working on uniforms, backpacks, work jackets, and kids' wear.

FAQs about Ironing of Embroidered Patches

Can you iron on embroidered patches?

But yes, provided it has adhesive backing that can withstand heat.

In case there is no adhesive backing, then it has to be stitched.

How long do you iron an embroidered patch?

Patches generally require about 20 to 30 seconds of continuous heat.

The duration of application may vary according to the adhesive used, the material used, and the heat applied.

Can iron on patches be washed?

Yes, iron on patches can be washed after proper attachment to the clothes.

In order to increase their durability, wait until the patch is fully cooled and first washing, turn it inside out and use a gentle cycle.

Repeated washing in hot water may cause the glue that holds the patch together to disintegrate.

Which materials should be considered while applying iron-on patches?

The following should be considered as ideal materials: cotton, denim, canvas, and blended materials.

Materials like synthetics, coated, waterproof, and delicate material require caution.

Is sewing required after ironing an iron-on patch?

Not necessarily, but sewing can increase the durability of the attachment.

Sewing of edges is especially useful for garments that get often washed, worn regularly and/or subjected to constant movements.

Conclusion

How to iron on embroidered patches is easy once the proper technique is mastered. First of all, the fabric should be checked, the patch should be placed in proper position, the patch should be covered with a cloth, heated with constant heat and pressure and allowed to cool down.

For everyday clothes, the patch will probably stick due to adhesive backing alone. For uniforms, jackets, bags and other items, which get often washed, the added stitches will add some durability.

Looking for custom embroidered patches to personalize your company’s, uniform’s, team’s or event’s logo?

Get custom embroidered patches made by Masters Digitizing.