Want to create your own fun custom patch but don’t know where to begin? Although it can appear intimidating, making a custom patch is very easy.
Custom patches are a really fun way of personalizing any garment or accessory. They are also used worldwide in myriads of professions, including school uniforms, military, law enforcement agencies, and businesses of all shapes and sizes. These are some of the ways custom patches are used:
- Elevating your personal style
- Providing a personalized gift
- Serving as door gifts for corporate events
- Labeling uniforms
- Promoting your brand on products
The entire process of creating a fun custom patch, from concept to completion, is nothing but a straightforward series of simple steps. This may even turn out to be more fun than you expected.
Designing your Custom patch
You need a design before you can make your own custom patch. This design must fulfill your needs and requirements. You can select your preferred colors, initials, and artwork if you’re making a patch to enhance your personal style. However, if the patch is intended for branding purposes, you must take into account the patch’s size, form, logo, and brand colors.
Dimensions and Form
When deciding the dimensions and form of the custom patch, keep in mind the clothing item it will be attached to. The dimensions of the custom patch should be determined once you finalize where it will be placed on your selected clothing item.
Creating the Actual Design
Start by sketching your design on a sheet of paper first. Don’t limit your creativity. Think of what elements and colors you want in the patch and start drawing those first. Add any text you want and find the best placement for them.
For professional use, sketch the logo, graphics, and any elements you want in the patch. You can also use graphic design software to create the design for your custom patch. If this step seems complex, you can always hire a designer to do this bit.
Colors
When choosing colors for your custom patch, keep in mind that adding a lot of colors can increase the cost of the patch. As each color on the patch means an additional colored thread in the creation of the patch, too many threads will add to the final cost.
Format
Your design needs to be a high-resolution PNG or PDF file. If you are using a graphic designer, they will take care of the technical elements of the design for you.
Types of Custom Patches
There are a few patch options to choose from when creating your own custom patch. When selecting your patch type, it is best to keep in mind your design and color specifications. Here are some of the patch types that you can choose from:
Embroidered Patches
Embroidered patches are one of the most widely used fun custom patch options since they are affordable, durable, and create a stunning piece of artwork. These are good for logos and designs with a lot of details. The raised texture of embroidery can add details that pop on your patch.
However, there are some limitations to using an embroidered patch, fine details or intricate designs can appear bulky in embroidery. If your design has fine details, and text or you want a delicate look, woven patches are a better option for you.
Woven Patches
These patches have a smooth finish, compared to the embroidered patches. The weaving process makes these custom patches ideal for designs with a lot of fine details or text.
PVC Rubber Patches
PVC or rubber patches are used mainly for brands that make outdoor gear. These patches are durable and weatherproof. PVC material is your best option if you want 3D designs.
Leather Patches
Leather patches offer a very high-end, sophisticated look. Genuine leather custom patches can be expensive but there are also vegan leather options available at a more affordable price.
Chenille Patches
Chenille patches are created with a soft yarn and they have a plush and fluffy texture which gives it a towel or carpet-like feel. These are best for a simple design with limited colors.
Choose the Backing for your Custom Patches.
There are a few ways you can attach a custom patch to your clothing of choice. Each option has its limitations and benefits.
Iron-on Custom patch
This is the most commonly selected option for custom patches because it is the easiest way to attach a patch to any garment. However, it is also not a permanent solution. Iron-on patches start peeling at the edges after some time. They can be reattached by re-ironing them.
Sew-On Custom patch
Sew-on backing gives a more permanent solution but it is an additional cost. You can stitch it on yourself or if you have a bulk order, you can always hire a professional to sew them on for you.
Velcro Custom patch
Velcro custom patches are best if you want an interchangeable patch. You will need to stitch a Velcro backing to your clothing of choice, this backing will be permanent but you can change the patch you stick on it.
Select a Custom Patch Manufacturer.
Once you have your design, choice of custom patch and backing decided, you will need to find a custom patch manufacturer that meets your needs.
Find a manufacturer that specializes in your chosen custom patch type and backing. Some manufacturers take only bulk orders, so choose one that can fit your patch order quantity needs.
Talk to them and find out if they can send a sample patch in case of bulk orders. If you are looking for a custom patch service online, check reviews and images of their finished products before selecting them.
Place your Custom patch Order.
Once you have selected a manufacturer, send them your design file and order quantity, and discuss production and delivery time.
Applying Your Custom Patch
When you receive your custom patch order, make sure to test a few of the patches on your selected clothing items. If there are any issues, revert to the manufacturer.
Creating a custom patch is a fun and rewarding process once you get the hang of it. Although daunting at first, you will find yourself submerged in the experience of bringing your creativity to life. Seeing a custom patch you worked on, come to life on your apparel is exhilarating at the least.
So, what are you waiting for? Start creating your own fun custom patches now with our easy to create and ordering process at CustompatchesbyBob.
