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Different Types of Custom Made Patches: Embroidery, Woven, PVC, and More
Patches aren’t just for decoration. They narrate tales, demonstrate identity and even bear brands on shoulders, bags, jackets and hats. The correct patch has the potential of raising any product in an instant. That is why custom made patches are very popular nowadays. They are dependent upon businesses, schools, sports teams, and fashion brands. But not all patches are the same. Each type has its own vibe, durability, and use. In this guide, we’ll break down the main types of patches, how they’re made, their pros and cons, and what they’re best for.
Embroidered Patches
The most common and traditional kind is likely to be embroidered patches. They are created by sewing threads on a cloth backdrop to create images, logos or text. The strings may be either colored or metal, rich or thin, and the texture will literally pop.
How They’re Made
To start with, a design is stenciled in embroidery machines. Then fine threads are then embroidered on the cloth in fine designs. Intricate designs have been made possible through modern machines which are capable of doing hundreds of stitches every minute. Lastly, patches are made, and edges are sealed in order to avoid fraying.
Pros
- Durable and long-lasting
- Textured, premium look
- Works for logos, names, and detailed graphics
- Can be sewn or ironed on
Cons
- Less suitable for very small or extremely intricate designs
- Slightly higher cost than simple printed patches
- Texture may feel bulky on thin fabrics
Uses
Embroidered custom made patches are perfect for ‘jackets’, ‘hats’, ‘uniforms’, ‘backpacks’, and ‘corporate merchandise’. Sports teams love them on jerseys, while fashion brands use them for premium jackets and denim.
The traditional sense of embroidery makes it authentic. That is why a lot of brands continue to revert to embroidered patches. If you want high-quality, professional embroidery that lasts, Quality Patches makes it easy to create your perfect design.
Chenille Patches
The chenille patches are thick, fuzzy and soft. The big letters with a fluffy feel are the ones you have likely seen on the jackets of the college baseball players. They are sewn with loops of yarns attached to a backing to give this trademark plush appearance.
How They’re Made
Chenille is made by first cutting loops of yarn in the form of letters or figures. Then a backing is provided to fix the yarn, which may be embroidered or stitched to outline the patch. The sides are also completed and in some cases also adhesive or iron-on is applied to enable easy attachment.
Pros
- Thick, textured, and eye-catching
- Ideal for large letters and numbers
- Very tactile and premium-looking
- Works well for school, sports, or retro designs
Cons
- Not suitable for very small or highly detailed designs
- Bulkier than embroidery, may feel heavy on thin fabrics
- Requires special care during washing
Uses
Chenille custom made patches shine on varsity jackets, sweatshirts, hoodies, and bags. They are great with school teams, sports clubs, and fashion brands that wish to be nostalgic or vintage.
The instant method of adding personality and style to your merch is to add chenille patches. Quality Patches specializes in creating durable, soft, and professional chenille patches that last through wear and wash.
PVC Patches
PVC patches are produced using tough plastic. They are versatile, waterproof, and can fit the modern, outdoor, or tactical designs.
How They’re Made
The design is computer molded and cast into PVC sheets. The different layers can be coloured and the last patch is cured so as to solidify it. The edges are cleaned and occasionally a backing adhesive or Velcro is added so that it can be used in more ways.
Pros
- Extremely durable and weatherproof
- Resistant to fading and tearing
- Perfect for 3D designs or vibrant colors
- Can be used on outdoor gear or heavy-duty clothing
Cons
- Less traditional look; not “soft” like embroidery or chenille
- Limited to bold, simple designs
- Slightly rigid depending on thickness
Uses
PVC custom made patches are best used in military gear, backpacks, jackets, hats, outdoor brands or event merchandise. They are durable and take into consideration coarse wear. PVC patches are incomparable to businesses seeking something that is contemporary and tough.
In case you want to have durable, modern, and versatile patches, Quality Patches can create PVC designs tailored to your brand.
Silicone Patches
Silicone patches are soft, flexible, and slightly rubbery. They’re similar to PVC but softer, making them feel smooth while still durable.
How They’re Made
Liquid silicone is poured into molds and colored as desired. Layers can be built up for a 3D effect. After curing, the patch is trimmed and finished. Adhesive or iron-on backings are optional.
Pros
- Flexible and soft
- Water and weather-resistant
- Vibrant, long-lasting colors
- Good for logos and modern designs
Cons
- Limited for extremely intricate small details
- Doesn’t have the “classic” patch feel
- Slightly higher cost than simple embroidery
Uses
Silicone custom made patches are perfect for sports, activewear, backpacks, caps, and tech gear. They’re also great for brands wanting modern merch that feels different.
Get soft, durable silicone patches for your merch at Quality Patches
Leather Patches
Leather adds a premium, timeless touch to patches. They’re stylish, durable, and perfect for casual or luxury products.
How They’re Made
Leather patches are either embossed, debossed, or laser engraved. A backing is added for sewing or iron-on application. Edges are finished carefully to prevent peeling or curling.
Pros
- Timeless, premium look
- Durable, ages well over time
- Works with subtle branding or intricate logos
- Perfect for high-end apparel and accessories
Cons
- More expensive than fabric patches
- Less flexible than textile patches
- Limited color options
Uses
Leather custom made patches shine on jackets, caps, bags, denim, and premium merchandise. They give products a luxury feel without overdesigning.
For professional, clean, and premium leather patches, Quality Patches ensures every design pops.
Woven Patches
Woven patches are smooth and precise, making them perfect for detailed designs and small text.
How They’re Made
Threads are woven together on a loom according to a digital design. The edges are cut and sealed to prevent fraying. Woven patches can reproduce very fine details and color gradients.
Pros
- Crisp, detailed designs
- Lightweight and smooth
- Durable and long-lasting
- Good for logos, labels, and intricate graphics
Cons
- Doesn’t have the raised texture of embroidery
- Less tactile
- Small designs may require high skill to look perfect
Uses
Woven custom made patches work well for uniforms, brand logos, corporate gifts, and small intricate designs. They’re great when precision is needed.
Sublimated Patches
Sublimated patches use heat to transfer dye directly onto the fabric. The colors are vibrant and can be photographic.
How They’re Made
A digital image is printed on special paper. Then heat-pressed onto polyester or similar fabric. The dye penetrates the fibers. This makes the design part of the fabric itself.
Pros
- Extremely vibrant colors
- Can reproduce photographic designs
- Lightweight and smooth
- No peeling or cracking
Cons
- Works best on polyester or synthetic fabrics
- Not as textured or tactile
- Can fade if low-quality inks are used
Uses
Sublimated custom made patches are excellent for fashion brands, team apparel, or merchandise where color and detail matter.
Metflex Patches
Metflex patches are a type of metal-infused flexible patch, giving a unique sheen and premium feel.
How They’re Made
Metallic elements are incorporated into flexible backing. They’re shaped, embossed, and finished with a protective coating.
Pros
- Unique metallic shine
- Flexible yet sturdy
- Eye-catching and premium feel
- Great for branding and high-end merch
Cons
- Slightly expensive
- Limited color options
- Not as soft as fabric patches
Uses
Metflex custom made patches are perfect for luxury merchandise, hats, leather goods, and exclusive branded items.
FAQs
Is it possible to order a small quantity of custom made patches?
Yes, manufacturers like Quality Patches handle both small and bulk orders.
Which type of patch shall I select for jackets?
Depends on the look. Every patch works well according to the need.
Do patches wear off after washing?
High-quality patches do. PVC, silicone, woven and leather are known to be the toughest.
Is it okay to mix different types of patches on one item?
Absolutely. Many brands combine embroidery, woven, and PVC for a layered effect.
Are custom made patches expensive?
Prices vary by type and quantity. But they’re generally affordable and add a premium feel.
Wrap up!
From old-school embroidered styles to newer Metflex looks, custom made patches give you options. A lot of them. Some work better for merch. Some for caps. Some just look good on denim. Pick the right patch and even a plain jacket starts to feel like it belongs to a brand, not a shelf.
Quality Patches keeps the process easy. No overcomplication. Just solid materials, clean finishes, and patches that hold up after wear, wash, and time. People notice that stuff, even if they don’t say it out loud.