12 Different Types of Patches

​​Types of patches can be sneaky little rebels on your garments. Looking sharp until they betray you with peeling, fading, or that merciless scratchiness. Choose wisely, or they’ll whisper sabotage about your brand quality and cost-efficiency.

As a custom underwear supplier, you know this drama firsthand. Imagine an itchy embroidered patch where… well, comfort matters most. Or a “Premium” logo that flakes off after three washes. Talk about a credibility crisis.

Relax. The patch police won’t raid you. Our breakdown of ​​12 types of patches decodes materials, bonding methods, and durability like a secret handbook. No more trial-and-error roulette. Just smart, ​​itch-free decisions.

12 Types of Patches

1. Embroidered Patches

Embroidered patches stand out among types of patches. With their textured, raised surface, created by thread-based stitching.

Size and Design Tips

• Best suited for patches between 2-5 inches in height.
• Ideal for clean-lined artwork with lettering at least ¼ inch tall.
• Avoid using embroidery for designs with gradients or fine details. It doesn’t reproduce these as well as woven patches.

Edge and Backing Options

• Merrowed edge (about 1/8″ thick) gives a sturdy and classic border.
• Laser-cut and stitched edges offer options for custom shapes and contours.
• Plastic backing makes patches stronger without making them bulky. This helps them resist heat, cold, and frequent washing.

2. Woven Patches

Woven patches are made by weaving thin threads tightly together, giving you a smooth, flat surface with no raised stitching.

Advantages of Woven Patches

• HIGH DETAIL AND CLARITY: Woven patches can show tiny details and fine lines that other patch types can’t. This is great when you want your logo or text to look crisp and professional.
• LIGHTWEIGHT & FLEXIBLE: These types of patches are thin and bend easily, so they won’t add bulk. You can use them on delicate fabrics like hats, activewear, or even inside clothes without discomfort.
• PROFESSIONAL, MODERN LOOK: The surface is sleek, without the raised texture embroidery has. This provides your patches with a clean, high-resolution look. It’s perfect for corporate branding or stylish fashion labels.
• DURABLE: Despite being flat and light, woven patches have a tight weave that resists wear and tear from washing or everyday use.

Customization Options and Sizes

You get plenty of choices with woven patches:

• Multiple backing types: Iron-on, Velcro, adhesive, or sew-on. This flexibility helps you apply patches exactly how you need.
• Vibrant thread colors: Thousands of color options let you match any brand palette or create photorealistic effects.
• Various sizes and shapes: From tiny 1-inch patches up to large 12-inch designs or custom shapes made by die-cutting or laser-cutting.

Expert Advice: Prioritize ​​pre-production sampling​​ for gradients or ultra-fine details. Request a 1:1 weave density test to avoid blurred edges or color bleed that undermines your brand’s premium look.

Gracy, lingerie manufacturer in China

3. Chenille Patches

Chenille patches are unique because of their soft, plush texture and three-dimensional, velvety look. 

Key Features of Chenille Patches

• Production Method: Made by stitching soft chenille yarn onto a sturdy felt or fabric base. This creates a raised, fluffy surface.
• Customization Options: You can choose from up to 106 thread colors and 17 felt colors, including metallic and glitter effects. Designs can use up to 9 thread colors per patch.
• Sizes & Shapes: Flexible sizing fits various places—small 2-4 inch patches for hats, or larger 3-4 inch patches for sleeves, chest, or necklines.
• Durability: Tested to handle over 50 machine wash cycles without losing color or softness.
• Backing & Edges: Features a strong felt backing with optional satin stitching or felt edging for a neat finish.
• Minimum Order: Usually starts from 12 or 25 pieces per design, making it economical for small to medium batches.

Popular Uses and Styles

Chenille patches have a classic, nostalgic look. You often see them on letterman jackets, varsity sweaters, and band uniforms. They symbolize achievement and team spirit, making them perfect for schools, sports teams, and clubs. Modern uses include vintage-inspired fashion and personalized accessories.

4. PVC/Rubber Patches

PVC/Rubber patches are made from polyvinyl chloride, a strong and flexible rubber-like plastic.

Sharp Design and Molded Flexibility

These types of patches are known for their sharp, bold outlines and vibrant colors. They come in both flat 2D designs and raised 3D versions that add a tactile, eye-catching feel. The flexibility of PVC allows patches to bend and twist easily. Making them ideal surfaces ​​for Indonesia clothing manufacturers​​ working with bags, jackets, and other curved items.

Customization and Use Cases

You can customize PVC patches into any shape, size, or color, including complex logos or detailed text. The wide color range, including any Pantone color, means your design looks exactly how you want. PVC patches fit many purposes:

• Military: Unit insignias and morale patches that hold up in tough environments
• Outdoor Gear: Waterproof badges for backpacks, camping gear, and tactical clothing
• Corporate Branding: Long-lasting logos on uniforms and promotional products
• Sports: Team logos on jerseys and fan merchandise
• Fashion: Unique, durable embellishments on apparel and accessories

5. Leather Patches

Leather patches stand out for their durability, style, and flexibility in branding and product design. 

Types of Leather Patches

• Real Leather Patches come from animal hides, mostly cowhide. Each patch has a unique natural grain and texture. Over time, real leather softens and develops character, which adds authentic charm to your products.
• Faux Leather Patches are made from synthetic materials like vinyl or polyurethane. They look like the real thing but come at a lower price and avoid animal use. Faux leather works well if you want a budget-friendly or eco-conscious option.

Popular Styles and Features

• Vegetable-Tanned Leather offers a rich, classic brown color with natural scars and marks, adding authentic beauty.
• Chestnut Leather has a warm brown-orange hue, providing vibrant visual appeal.
• Perforated Leather features small holes that improve breathability and texture.
• Laser Etching allows for precise, detailed logos or artwork, with line detail as fine as 0.1 mm. This customization creates sharp, eye-catching branding.

Related Reading: Different 7 Types of Seams And Their Uses

6. Printed/Dye-Sublimated Patches

Printed or dye-sublimated patches are a great choice. They provide vibrant, detailed designs and don’t limit you with thread colors. 

Why Choose Them

• Unlimited Colors and Details: Unlike traditional embroidered patches limited to about 8 thread colors. These types of patches can display photos, logos, gradients, and detailed artwork. You have endless color options.
• Long-lasting Vibrancy: The dye-sublimation method ensures colors are bright and resistant to fading, even with regular use.
• Fast Turnaround Time: Get digital proofs in just 1 business day. Sample photos are ready within 5 days after you approve the design. This is great if you need fast results.
• Multiple Backing Options: Whether you prefer sew-on, iron-on, or peel & stick backings. You can choose what fits best for your patch application on hats, jackets, bags, or uniforms.

Production Efficiency and Customization

• Using sublimation, you can print multiple patch designs on a single 8.5” x 11” sheet. Optimizes production and cost, especially for smaller orders.
• Finished patches often feature a merrowed edge that wraps the fabric border for durability and a clean look.
• Many customers appreciate the ability to blend printing with embroidery. Like adding a stitched border to add texture and enhance the patch’s feel.

7. Bullion Patches

Bullion patches stand out for their luxurious look and high-quality craftsmanship. 

Materials and Construction

• Crafted from metallic threads (often gold, silver, or a mix)
• Sewn onto premium fabrics like velvet or silk to enhance their refined appearance
• Often include real precious metal content, though in very small amounts

Key Benefits of Bullion Patches

• Enhance Prestige: Perfect for uniforms or items where you want to show status or honor
• Durability: Built to last with high-quality metals and stitching
• Distinct Style: Raised, shiny designs that catch the eye and add texture
• Versatile Symbolism: Used by the military, clubs, sports teams, and companies. It shows heritage and importance.

8. Sequin Patches

Sequin patches bring sparkle and a unique shine to your products, making them stand out instantly. 

Popular Types of Sequin Patches

• Personalized Sequin Patches: Customize with names, logos, or artwork to represent your brand or identity.
• Embroidered Sequin Patches: Combine detailed stitching with sequins for complex logos or text.
• Custom Glitter Patches: Add glitter alongside sequins for extra sparkle and shine.
• Handmade Sequin Patches: Crafted with care for high-end, luxury looks.
• Sequin Badge Patches: Great for teams or organizations to show pride and prestige.

Size and Application Options

Sequin patches come in sizes from 2” to 12” (about 5 to 30 cm), offering flexibility depending on your needs.

Popular backing styles include:

• Iron On: Quickly attach with heat.
• Adhesive: Easy to stick on and peel off.
• Velcro: Swap patches easily.
• Plastic Backing: Keeps the patch sturdy and shaped.
• Safety Pin: Temporary and simple to move.
• No Backing: Sew it for a durable hold.

9. Felt Patches

Felt patches are unique in the types of patches thanks to their soft, plush texture and vintage, handcrafted look. 

Key Features and Customization Options

• You can customize felt patches in many ways, including cutting, printing, and embroidery.
• Production methods feature high-frequency pressing, iron-on application, and vacuum forming. These options allow for a range of uses.
• Felt patches come in 17 felt colors and 44 thread colors, with some special options like gold and silver glitter for added flair.
• The minimum order quantity is typically 100 pieces, ideal for bulk branding or merchandise.
• You can choose shapes, sizes, and even materials like eco-silicone, PVC, suede, or microfiber to match your design needs.

Limitations to Consider

• Felt patches are less suitable for very detailed designs because the soft texture reduces fine line sharpness.
• They are not as durable for heavy or frequent washing compared to woven or twill patches. Over time, edges may fray or the surface might get fuzzy.
• Felt patches tend to be thicker and textured, which may not fit all design aesthetics.

10. 3D Puff Embroidery Patches

3D puff embroidery patches create a bold, raised look by using a layer of foam under the stitching. This foam, usually 2mm to 5mm thick, pushes the threads upward, giving your patch a three-dimensional effect. 

How 3D Puff Embroidery Works

A piece of foam is cut to match your design, placed between the fabric and embroidery thread. Then dense satin stitches cover the foam. These stitches compress the foam slightly, causing the patch to “puff up” noticeably. This raised style is perfect for bold letters, numbers, logos, and icons.

Why Choose 3D Puff Patches for Your Items

• EYE-CATCHING DESIGN: The raised effect grabs attention, making logos and names pop out clearly.
• TOUCHABLE TEXTURE: It adds a unique feel, enhancing your brand’s quality perception.
• STRONG BRAND IMPACT: Used widely by streetwear and sports brands, it signals exclusivity and premium appeal.
• VERSATILE APPLICATION: Works well on hats, varsity jackets, backpacks, event uniforms, and promotional gear.

11. Appliqué Patches

Appliqué patches are made by layering fabric pieces on a base, often polyester twill. Then, they are stitched securely. 

Durability and Fabric Strength

• Strong adhesion: Appliqué patches stick well to tough materials like leather, denim, and canvas.
• They keep their shape and appearance even after many washes and heavy use.
• Ideal for items that face rough conditions, such as jackets, bags, uniforms, and workwear.

Attachment Methods

• Sew-on: Most secure and permanent for heavy-use applications.
• Iron-on: Heat-activated adhesive makes it easy to apply on lighter fabrics.
• Velcro (hook-and-loop): Allows you to remove and reuse patches easily, great for quick changes.
• Adhesive backing: Best for temporary use like promotions or events.

Pro Tip: Match attachment method to fabric weight before production. Sew leather jackets but iron-on for performance knits to avoid costly reworks. Test fire-rated materials with heat applications to protect safety certifications.

12. Canvas Patches

Canvas patches stand out for their strength, natural texture, and versatile usability. 

Material and Texture

• Durable fabric: Cotton canvas or cotton-poly blends ensure long-lasting resistance to tearing and fraying.
• Distinct look: The matte, slightly rough surface gives your items a vintage or utilitarian style.

Application Methods and Customization

• Multiple customization options: You can add detailed logos or artwork through screen printing, embroidery, or sublimation.
• Attachment versatility: Canvas patches easily attach by sewing, heat-press, or adhesive backing.
• Flexible design: Available in almost any shape, size, or Pantone color, fitting your brand identity perfectly.

Conclusion

Types of patches​​ define your brand’s visual identity and product integrity. But only when precision execution meets material science. Maximizing their potential demands expertise in sourcing and technical application.

For brands prioritizing accuracy and impact, LeelineApparel specializes in ​​custom garment detailing​​. We engineer every patch for your unique specifications. From military-grade durability to luxury embellishments.

Optimize your embellishment strategy with a partner who transforms complexity into competitive advantage. Reach out for a tailored solution.

FAQs About Types of Patches