Best Results! How To Sew On A Patch

When it comes to custom patches, sewn-on patches offer the best results in terms of durability and proper appearance. For anyone looking to learn how to sew on a patch, the instructions below will show you just how quick and easy it can be.

There is no reason to be apprehensive about sewing on patches. Attaching these patches to any garment, backpack, tote bag, or just about any other fabric surface is fast and easy once you know the steps.

Start by washing and drying the item to which you want to attach the embroidered patch. While this may seem like an unnecessary step, some fabrics will shrink a bit when laundered. This prevents the material from shifting or bunching after you sew on your custom patch.

If you're material requires it, iron before you start to sew. Your patch site should be clean, dry, and wrinkle-free before you start. By the way, be sure your work area has adequate lighting. You want to be able to see your work as you progress.

Proper Placement Prevents Poor Patch Performance!
The real key to successfully applying a sew-on patch is placement. Experiment with different locations on your garment until you find the one that’s just right.

Use pins to hold the patch in place until you start sewing. For those who haven't yet learned how to sew on a patch, iron-on backing is a great alternative. You can iron-on patches, then sew them into place until you get the hang of it.

Once your patch is in place, prepare your needle and thread. For the best results, you want a good quality cotton blend thread. Select a color that closely matches your patch or your fabric for a clean look. Pull about 18 inches of thread from the spool and cut it off at a 45-degree angle.

When it comes to threading needles, the use of a needle threader, available at fabric, craft and discount stores, is highly recommended. These simple and inexpensive devices make threading your needle a lot faster and easier. However, don't be discouraged about threading by hand. With good lighting and a little patience, you can handle it yourself.

Once you have the thread in the needle, pull it through until half the thread is on either side of the needle. Tie the two ends in a knot. Now, this is where the fun of how to sew on a patch begins. Work from the backside of your fabric and not the front. This hides the knotted end of your thread when you’re finished.

Push the needle through the edge of the patch, guiding it with your hands. Be careful, or you will get stuck! Pull the needle through the front of the fabric and repeat in the opposite direction, leaving about 1/4-inch between your needle entry points.

Once you're done, slip the needle under the stitch to make a loop, and pull to tighten. Repeat this at least once to secure your knot. Clip the thread at the needle, and you’re all set.

That's it; you did it! You have successfully attached your patch to your garment. Which means you can now confidently say, "Yes, I do know how to sew on a patch!"