Making a jacket for a concert? Leading a scout group? Designing a company uniform? Then you are going to need some patches!
Patches are a colourful addition to any outfit, perfect for a variety of situations. Proudly displaying a custom patch on your clothing can help you quickly convey an achievement, an interest, or a brand identity.
Getting a personalised patch is easy with the help of Golden Finishes, but you’ve got a decision to make before you place your order. Should you go with iron-on or sew-on patches?
Let’s take a look at pros and cons of iron-on vs sew on patches…
Benefits of Iron-On Patches
Iron-on patches have a layer of adhesive on the back. You activate the adhesive by heating it with a clothes iron.
Here are some key benefits of iron-on patches:
Not everyone knows how to sew, and sewing machines can be expensive. But that’s OK, because iron-on patches are here to save the day. No needles necessary!
Sometimes, you need to upgrade your style on short notice. Rather than spending an afternoon struggling to thread a needle, just quickly iron on your patches before you leave the house. Perfect for the fashionista on the go.
Okay, so we just explained why the iron-on method is a good alternative to needle and thread…but it’s also a great backup for needle and thread. By using an iron-on patch instead of a sew-on patch, but still adding a few stitches around the edges, you can be confident that your patch will stay on. Even if your stitches come loose, you have the extra security of the glue.
Benefits of Sew-On Patches
Sew-on patches cannot adhere to fabric on their own, and must be attached manually, usually with a needle and thread.
Here are some of the benefits of sew-on patches:
A sew-on patch can be added to nearly any material. Some fabrics may have an uneven material (like a sequin jacket) or be difficult to iron without damage (like a silk shirt). In these cases, a sew-on patch would be more suitable than an iron-on one.
Unlike iron-on patches, which can become loose over time, a sewn-on patch can remain secured for a long time if properly sewn. Of course, you’ll need to have some serious sewing skills to make this work. If you’re up for the challenge, go for it!
Believe it or not, many people enjoy sewing. Who would have thought? Then again, if you throw in a hot drink and some snacks, you could probably spend a very cosy afternoon adding patches to your clothing. When you sew on a patch, you can choose the thread colour and style of stitch, adding another level of personalisation to your garment. Arts and crafts are never out of style!
Final Comparison: Iron-On or Sew-On Patches?
Haven’t made your decision quite yet? Here are the simplified facts to help you choose between iron-on and sew-on patches.
If you’re looking for a patch that will stay on for a long time, we recommend choosing sew-on patches (or adding some stitches to your iron-patches for extra security). An iron-on patch with no stitches is more likely to come loose and fall off.
Conversely, if you need to add patches quickly, then you might want to go with iron-ons. Iron-on patches are a good choice if you just need patches for a specific event, where they need to be added quickly and don’t necessarily have to last very long.
If you’re considering iron-on patches just because you don’t know how to sew, but you need the patch to last a long time, you can always make use of our sewing services. We can apply your patches or badges for you, saving you the bother!
Where to Get Iron-On & Sew-On Patches
You can get personalised iron-on and sew-on patches from Golden Finishes. Our expert badge makers can follow your specifications to create the design you are looking for. You can even order these badges in large quantities for a group, team or business! We’ll then finish the badge with an iron-on adhesive finish if needed, or leave it for you to sew on yourself.
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