Woven Patches

Woven Patches

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Embroidered Patches

Product designers need to know the difference between woven patches and embroidered patches. While embroidered patches are created by stitching thread onto a background material using a needle, woven patches are created by interlacing thread using a fabric loom. As a result, woven patches are lighter weight than their embroidered counterpart, making them more suitable for light weight garments. Woven patches also use a thinner thread, giving them an advantage for artwork with small text or fine details. Woven patches have a flat surface, while embroidered designs are slightly raised off the background material. We tend to see woven patches used on lighter weight garments or when a design has a high level of detail. Both options can accept an iron on backing and be finished with a merrowed border or laser cut edge.

Color or Text Versions?

Our company offers a unique option for woven patches: the ability to split an order into different color or text versions. This makes it affordable to swap a word or try a different color scheme for your design without requiring a second order. For patches, we can swap a single line of text or a single color for $25. Let us know the details and quantity of each version in the comment section and our artist will help update youe digital proof accordingly.

Complimentary Photo Samples

To ensure your satisfaction, all woven patch orders offer a free photo sample. This option is always recommended when you have time. It always helps to see how your design translates into thread, particularly with small text or fine details. Sample photos are emailed within 5 business days of receiving your digital proof approval. If you request a sample photo, your turnaround time will start once your sample approval has been received.

Woven Patches For Hats

Our experience sewing patches on hats has taught the importance of not oversizing the patch. For most baseball caps, the ideal patch size is no larger than 4.25" wide and 2.5" tall. This will allow for adequate margin on all sides and lend your caps a professional look. Woven patches work great on winter hats or beanies due to their lighter weight construction. If unsure about size, lean smaller so the patch can sit inside the hat and not touch the edge.

Merrowed Edge or Laser Cut Edge?

When placing your order for custom woven patches, you will be asked whether you prefer a merrowed edge or a laser cut edge. Understanding the difference between these two options is crucial to ensure you receive a patch that matches your vision.

Merrowed Edge:

A merrowed edge is the industry standard for woven patches. This distinctive edge is what makes a patch recognizable as such. A merrowed edge is created with a stitch that wraps around from the front to the back of the patch, giving the edge a slightly raised effect. This type of edge is suitable for simple shapes without sharp outward angles such as circles, ovals, squares, rectangles, or even triangles. Keep in mind, the merrowed edge on a woven patch is approximately 1/8” thick.

Laser Cut Edge:

While less common, a laser cut edge remains an important option for certain applications. Some woven patches are laser cut because their unique custom shape makes merrowing impossible. For lighter garmants or when a patch is very small, a laser cut edge cuts down on a patch's bulk and feels lighter on the garment after application. Laser cut edge is not raised, so the patch will lay flater on the garment as well.

At the end of the day, both options have their merit and it's up to the product designer and their vision.

Backing Options for Woven Patches:

• • Plastic Backing: Included with our base pricing, this standard option is ideal for patches meant to be sewn onto fabrics. The plastic seals all threads from behind and adds structure to the patch.
• • Iron-On Backing: A favorite for easy application. Use a heat press or home iron to activate the glue on the patch's back, securely bonding it to your garment. The best part, iron on patches can also be sewn down as well when necessary.
• • Peel & Stick Backing: Turn your patch into a sticker. In addition to stick on patches for quick application at events, peel and stick is sometimes used to hold patches in place for more convenient sewing.
• • Hook & Loop Backing: The generic version of Velcro. Hook and loop patches are traditionally applied to military and law enforcement uniforms or gear. However, we've noticed a trend in designers using hook and loop patches for fashion as well!
  • • Hook Side Only: Includes only the hook side (the rough part) securely sewn onto the patch. Hook side only is used when a patch is applied to tactical garments or gear that already has the loop side present.

Bulk Quantity Quotes

Give us the opportunity to earn your higher quantity woven patch orders by requesting a custom price quote. Any order of 10,000pcs or more should request a custom quote based on your unique design and specifications. This way we can provide the lowest possible price for your project. When you request a woven patch quote, a team expert will review your request and reply within 1 business day.