The complete guide to custom patches.

Explore patch styles, shapes, borders and backings — and find the right combination for your design.

Explore the guide

A little further down

From first idea to finished patch

Designing process

Four simple steps take your idea from a sketch or logo to a patch ready to wear.

Share your idea

Send us your artwork, sketch or a few notes about what you have in mind.

Review your proof

We’ll prepare a digital preview so you can check the colours, shape and details.

Approve or refine

Request any changes you need. We’ll move forward once you’re happy with the design.

We make and deliver

After your order is confirmed, we produce your patches and arrange delivery.

You’ll see and approve your design before production begins.

Find a comfortable fit

Choosing the right size

Patch pricing uses the average of its width and height. Use these steps to work it out, then try the live preview below.

01
Measure the width and height
Measure the widest points across and down. For an irregular shape, measure the box that would fit around the design.
02
Find the average
Add the width and height, then divide the total by two. This average is the size used for pricing.
03
Round up for pricing
Round the average up to the next half inch. This pricing size is a guide; your patch keeps its original proportions.

Sample

(9.5″ + 8″) ÷ 2 = 8.75″, which rounds up to 9″ for pricing.

LIVE PATCH PREVIEW

3″

YOUR DESIGN

4.5″

Illustration scales to your selected proportions

DIAL IN YOUR PATCH SIZE

Width4.5″

1″15″

Height3″

1″15″

ESTIMATED PRICING SIZE4″

(4.5″ + 3″) ÷ 2 = 3.75″, rounded up

Size rounds up to the nearest half inch for pricing. It’s an estimate; your final quote is confirmed with your design.

Start with the material

What patch type is best for my design?

Each patch type has its own look, texture and strengths. Compare what each one does best, then choose the finish that fits your artwork and how you’ll use it.

Custom Embroidered Patches

Key qualities

Textured and traditional designs: Raised stitching gives the patch a tactile, classic finish.
Bold and simple artwork: Clear shapes and strong lines stand out well in thread.
High-contrast colours: A focused colour palette keeps the design easy to read.

Why choose it?

Choose embroidered patches for a timeless, raised finish. They suit bold designs for clubs, uniforms and teams.

High-Definition Woven Patches

Key qualities

Fine detail: Closely woven threads keep intricate artwork crisp.
Small text and thin lines: A flatter surface helps fine elements stay readable.
Smooth, lightweight finish: The low-profile texture works well on clothing and bags.

Why choose it?

Choose woven patches when your design includes small lettering, fine lines or details that need a smooth, clean finish.

Photo-Printed Sublimated Patches

Key qualities

Full-colour artwork: Reproduces a wide range of colours and gradients.
Photographic detail: Captures subtle shading and complex illustrations.
Flexible fabric finish: Printed artwork sits smoothly on a fabric base.

Why choose it?

Choose printed patches for artwork with gradients, many colours or photo-like detail that thread may not capture.

Tactical 3D PVC Rubber Patches

Key qualities

Raised 2D or 3D details: Moulded layers add depth to lettering and shapes.
Weather-ready material: Flexible PVC handles outdoor use and is easy to clean.
Bold, defined colours: Crisp edges make simple graphics easy to recognise.

Why choose it?

Choose PVC patches for outdoor gear and bold designs that need a durable, modern, dimensional finish.

Debossed Leather Patches

Key qualities

Premium, natural look: Adds a refined finish to apparel, caps and bags.
Clean logos and lettering: Simple artwork looks sharp on a smooth leather surface.
Distinctive finishes: Can be engraved, debossed or printed.

Why choose it?

Choose leather patches for a polished, understated look on branded clothing, headwear and accessories.

Varsity Chenille Patches

Key qualities

Soft, raised texture: Looped yarn creates a plush, tactile surface.
Large lettering and shapes: Bold forms make the most of its dimensional look.
Varsity style: A natural fit for jackets, schoolwear and sportswear.

Why choose it?

Choose chenille when you want a soft, standout varsity look built around large letters or simple emblems.

Custom Name Patches & Tapes

Key qualities

Clear identification: Makes staff, team and uniform names easy to recognise.
Personalised details: Add individual names, roles or a simple logo.
Flexible attachment: Pair with removable backing when names may change.

Why choose it?

Choose name patches for uniforms and teams that need clear, consistent personal identification.

Not sure where to start? Share the artwork and how you’ll use the patch. We’ll guide you to a suitable finish before production.

Shape your idea

Common patch shapes for your design

From classic circles to custom-cut shields, the outline can reinforce your artwork. Browse common shapes below; we can also follow a custom silhouette.

Circles and Rockers

Squares and Rectangles

Wedges and Tombstones

Shields

Need a different outline? We can create a custom shape around your artwork. Your dimensions and pricing size can be worked out in the section above.

Back to sizing

The finishing edge

Selecting the perfect border for your patch design

A border frames your artwork and affects how the patch is cut or finished. These two popular options suit different shapes and styles.

Hot-cut (custom-shaped) borders

•
Precise custom outlines: Heat-cutting follows the shape of detailed or irregular artwork.
•
Smooth sealed edge: The edge is sealed during cutting to help prevent fraying.
•
More shape freedom: A good fit for designs that don’t suit a standard circle, square or rectangle.

Merrowed borders

•
Classic stitched finish: A thick thread edge wraps around the patch for a familiar embroidered look.
•
Made for standard shapes: Works especially well around circles, squares and rectangles.
•
A sturdy everyday edge: The raised stitched border adds a durable finish for patches worn regularly.

Laser-cut edges are also available for selected materials and artwork. If you share your design, we can recommend a suitable finish.

Important patch details

Woven vs embroidered: which is better?

Both are thread-based patch styles, but the way the thread is built changes the surface, level of detail and overall feel. The right choice depends on your artwork and the finish you want.

Beacon Bay woven patch on the left and embroidered patch on the right

Same Beacon Bay design, woven on the left and embroidered on the right. Hover over either patch or choose a detail below to magnify it.

MAGNIFYHover anywhere on the image

AT A GLANCE

Same purpose, different finish

Use this quick comparison to decide which style fits your design.

Feature	Woven	Embroidered
Thread	Fine threads woven flat	Thicker threads stitched onto fabric
Detail	Fine lines and small lettering	Bold shapes and clear, simple artwork
Texture	Smooth and low-profile	Raised and tactile
Good for	Detailed logos, labels and lighter garments	Uniforms, club badges and traditional looks

Quick guide

Choose woven for fine detail and a flatter finish. Choose embroidery for bold artwork and a classic raised texture. If you’re unsure, we can review your design and suggest a fit.

Explore woven patches Explore embroidered patches

Important patch details

PVC vs embroidered patches: durability & quality

PVC and embroidery can both make bold, lasting patches. Compare their feel, detail and performance to find the right option for where your patch will be used.

Peak Chaser split sample showing molded PVC on the left and embroidery on the right

This split sample shows molded PVC on the left and embroidered fabric on the right. Hover over the patch or choose a detail below to magnify it.

MAGNIFYHover anywhere on the image

AT A GLANCE

Two finishes, different strengths

Pick a material based on the conditions it will face and the style you want.

Feature	PVC patches	Embroidered patches
Material	Soft, flexible PVC	Thread stitched onto twill fabric
Durability	Exceptional; waterproof, weatherproof and UV resistant	Very durable; colours may fade with extended outdoor use
Weather resistance	Excellent; resists moisture and outdoor wear	Good; prolonged sun exposure can fade thread
Appearance	Modern, dimensional design with bold colour	Classic, textured and traditional
Detail	Clean edges and crisp, defined shapes	Best for bold artwork; tiny details can be limited
Best for	Outdoor gear, tactical equipment, backpacks and hats	Uniforms, jackets, clubs and traditional applications
Weight	More structured and slightly heavier	Lightweight and flexible

The verdict

Choose PVC for strong weather resistance, outdoor use and a modern 3D finish. Choose embroidery for a lighter, classic textile look that suits uniforms and everyday wear. Share your artwork and we’ll help you decide.

Explore PVC patches Explore embroidered patches

How it attaches

Choose a backing for how you’ll wear it

Think about the garment, how often the patch will be removed, and whether it needs to stay in place through regular wear.

Iron-On (Heat Seal)

Permanent thermo-activated adhesive backing. Melts into fabric in 15 seconds using any household iron or heat press.

Velcro® Hook & Loop

Two-sided solution with hook attached to patch and matching loop fabric for garments or tactical vests.

Velcro® Hook Only

Pre-stitched male hook backing designed to attach directly to operator caps, combat shirts, or gear.

Traditional Sew-On

Plain durable twill/fabric backing ready for machine or hand needle stitching. Highest wash longevity.

Peel & Stick Adhesive

High-tack 3M pressure-sensitive adhesive. Instant application for events, trade shows, and temporary wear.

Plastic Backing

Stiff plastic support backing that keeps larger patches completely flat and rigid over years of wear.

Before you order

A few small details make a big difference

A clear brief helps us make a proof that feels right from the first look.

Keep small text in mind

Very fine lettering may need a larger patch or a woven or printed finish.

Choose contrast

Clear contrast between the background and artwork helps details stand out.

Think about placement

Measure the space on the garment before settling on the final dimensions.

Pick the attachment

Iron-on is convenient; sew-on is a reliable permanent option; hook-and-loop is removable.

Need a quick answer?

Frequently asked questions

A few helpful details before you get started.

How long does production and UK delivery take?

We usually prepare your free digital patch proof within 4–5 working hours. After you approve the design, UK delivery typically takes 8–10 days. We’ll confirm the timing with your quote.

What should I send with my quote request?

Share your artwork or a sketch, plus your preferred patch type, size, quantity and backing. If you’re unsure, send what you have and we’ll help fill in the details.

Will I see a free proof before production?

Yes. We’ll send a free digital proof for you to review and request adjustments before you approve production.

Which patch type should I choose?

It depends on your artwork and how you’ll use the patch. Embroidery gives a classic raised finish, woven patches suit fine detail, printed patches handle gradients, and PVC is a durable option for outdoor use. We can recommend a match after seeing your design.

How do I work out my patch size?

Measure the patch’s widest width and height, add them together, then divide by two. We round the average up to the nearest half inch for quoting.

Do you deliver custom patches across the UK?

Yes. Free delivery is available across the UK. We’ll confirm the expected delivery timing when we send your quote.

Feeling unsure? We’ll help you get it right.

From patch materials to size and backing, our design team can guide you through each choice and provide a free digital proof.