For entrepreneurs, makers, and small businesses, custom patches are more than decoration—they’re an extension of your brand. Whether you're creating custom patch hats, cool patches for jackets, or a standout custom back patch, the material you choose is just as important as the design.

You will get efficient and thoughtful service from Jiamei Labels.

At Dutch Label Shop, we understand the nuances of patch production. With global experience and a wide range of customization options, we help brands—from local start-ups to international labels—select the right patch type for every garment and goal.

Why material matters for custom patches

Brand identity and visual appeal

The texture, finish, and feel of a custom patch say a lot about your brand. A leather patch design suggests rugged quality, while a woven patch lends a clean, modern edge. Choosing the right material can emphasize professionalism, creativity, or even vintage charm—depending on the look you're after.

Your patch should complement your product. A custom leather patch on a trucker hat tells a different story than a custom woven patch on a varsity jacket. At Dutch Label Shop, we offer materials and finishes that elevate your brand identity and ensure your message sticks—literally.

Durability and intended use

Will your patch be exposed to the elements? Washed frequently? Placed on high-contact areas like sleeves or backs? Material selection plays a key role in durability, UV resistance, water resistance, and breathability.

For instance:

• PVC and leather offer excellent water resistance—ideal for custom patches for jackets or outdoor gear.
• Chenille works beautifully for custom letterman jacket patches, but may not suit rough conditions.
• Twill fabric is often used in embroidered patches for its durability and ease of stitching.
• Felt offers softness and vintage appeal, but may require special care.

Overview of popular patch materials

Embroidered patches

Custom embroidered patches are made by stitching thread onto a twill fabric base, creating a textured and classic look. Perfect for custom logo iron on patches, custom varsity jacket patches, or any patch where raised texture enhances the design.

Advantages:

• Timeless, bold appearance
• Excellent for logos and simple designs
• Compatible with iron-on or sew-on backings
• Durable and cost-effective for large runs

Use embroidered patches for: hats, uniforms, denim jackets, and embroidered backpacks.

Woven patches

Unlike embroidery, custom woven patches are created by weaving threads together, allowing for finer detail and cleaner lines—especially useful for intricate logos or small text.

Why choose woven:

• Great for personalized woven patches
• More detail than embroidery
• Flat and smooth finish
• Often chosen for woven label patch or woven logo patch applications

Ideal for: branded caps, patches for hats, woven patch hats, and personalized sew on patches.

Iron-on and sew-on patches

Patch backing also plays a major role in your material choice:

Custom iron-on patches come with a heat seal backing, allowing quick application with a household iron or heat press. Best for cotton, denim, and polyester garments.

Sew-on patches offer maximum durability and flexibility. Ideal for leather, felt, or heavy-duty uniforms.

Velcro backing can be applied to many materials, offering removable functionality—common in tactical or sports gear.

For custom back patches, custom iron on hat patches, and personalized patches for jackets, selecting the right backing ensures longevity and ease of use.

How to choose the best patch material for your project

Consider your garment or accessory

• Hats: Leather or woven patches work best for curved surfaces
• Jackets and vests: Choose embroidered or PVC patches for rugged wear
• Uniforms: Use woven or embroidered patches with sew-on backing for breathability
• Bags: Durable materials like PVC, leather, or embroidered patches hold up well

Think about placement, exposure, and daily use.

Design complexity and logo detail

1. Use woven patches for intricate logos or thin text
2. Choose embroidered patches for bold, high-impact shapes
3. Consider sublimation printing on polyester for photorealistic designs
4. Avoid high-detail designs on leather or felt—they're better suited for bold graphics

Budget and order size

Some materials are more cost-effective in bulk. For example:

• Custom embroidery patches are budget-friendly in large runs
• Leather patches add cost but elevate perceived value
• Woven patches are ideal for personalized patches for jackets at mid-size orders
• Custom made sew on patches can be more economical over time due to longevity

Our team at Dutch Label Shop is always available to help you match your material to your budget and creative goals.

Why choose Dutch Label Shop for your custom patches?

We offer more than patches—we offer partnership. At Dutch Label Shop, you’ll find:

• Material variety: From embroidered back patches to custom leather patch hats
• Expert support: We help you choose the right combination of material, size, and backing
• Reliable quality: Trusted by creators and businesses around the globe
• Global delivery: Whether you're ordering custom back patches for vest wearers or personalised sew on patches for a product launch

We’re here to help you bring your creative vision to life with confidence and care.

11 Affordable Supplies Needed To Make Embroidery Patches

Over the past few decades, technology and techniques have changed, and so have the supplies we use to create perfect patches. Our aim is to help you stay up to date and give you the tools you need to create authentic patches using modern techniques.

There are many different ways to go about embroidering patches, and we have created a formula to help you get it right from the start. Using our formula and the right supplies will have you crafting a flawless embroidery patch every time.

In this article, we will show you the different stabilizers you can use, which ones are easiest to work with, and which products will help you achieve a professional finish on all of your patches.

Custom Machine Embroidery Patch Supplies

Stabilizers, Backings, and Patch Fabrics

One of the most important aspects of getting your patches to look and feel professional is the stabilizer you use. This product does exactly what it says – it stabilizes your fabrics to prevent puckering and other stitching flaws.

It would be best if you had the right stabilizer and patch-specific fabric to get a professional result. There are a few different options to choose from, so we will provide you with a list along with some tips and advice on how to properly use them, and which ones are the best.

Patch Backing Options:

1. No-Show Mesh Fusible Backing (Not-bad)

This cut-away backing has a heat press grid that creates a strong foundation for your patch stitch-out. It is incredibly strong yet soft at the same time. This stabilizer needs to be fused to your fabric using an iron.

After the mesh is fused, you need to apply a spray adhesive to the back to bond it with whichever stabilizer you will be using to finish your project. The no-show mesh is a great option, but we have a better alternative for you to use that will save you a bit of hassle. 

2. Tacky Patch Fusible Backing (Best Choice for Flawless Results)

This is a product that will improve your patches out of the box. The tacky patch fusible is similar to the no-show mesh fusible in strength. The advantage of this stabilizer comes with reduced fraying and eliminating the need for spray adhesives. 

Heat-press the tacky patch fusible stabilizer onto your fabric of choice and then cut it out. Then simply peel off the paper backing and stick the patch onto your stabilizer with a running stitch outline without a sticky spray adhesive.  This product will save you time and ensure a non-sticky patch. 

Interested in tacky patch fusible backing? You can purchase it directly from our store by clicking here.

Embroidery Patch Stabilizer Options:

3. Tear-Away Stabilizer (Not-Bad)

This is a good option if you’re looking for a stabilizer that is quick and easy to remove. Again, the tear-away stabilizer does exactly what it says – it tears away. After you’ve sprayed your fusible mesh backing with spray adhesive, or if you’re using our tacky patch fusible backing, stick it within your running stitch outline on the tear-away stabilizer in the hoop. 

After you’ve completed embroidering your patch, simply tear-away the excess stabilizer by hand. Be sure to use tweezers or a soldering iron to remove any hard to get, leftover pieces of stabilizer. Although this is a good option, we have better options for you further below.

4. Water Soluble Stabilizer (Good)

We prefer to use this stabilizer over the tear-away option for a cleaner finish. Just like the tear-away stabilizer, glue your patches to a running stitch outline on this product. After the embroidery is complete, cut away the excess stabilizer. 

Dip your finger in some water and run it along the edges of the patch to “melt-away” any excess stabilizer. This process usually removes unwanted stabilizer quicker and more effectively than the tear-away option. However, the next option is our preferred product in terms of stabilizers.

5. Prep-Patch Film (Best Choice for Flawless Results)

This film is extremely easy to work with and provides a very strong and firm foundation for your patches. Just as you would with your other stabilizers, stick your fabric with fused backing down on a running stitch outline embroidered onto the film. Be sure to have the smooth side facing up and the dimpled side facing down. 

For more silicone patches for clothesinformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.

After your patch embroidery is finished, “pop” out your patch. You can remove film from your patch by ripping it away or by using heat. You can also leave the film on as it will help create a firm platform for your patch. 

This film works best with poly materials and fabrics. It is a 100-micron film which is the perfect foundation for patches. 

If you’re interested in prep-patch film and would like to use this product to improve your patches, or if you’d like to view a tutorial on how to use it, click here.

Embroidery Patch Materials:

6. Patch Backed Poly Twill (Best Choice for Flawless Results)

You really can use a variety of different fabrics for your custom patches (too many to list), yet our fabric of choice is Poly Twill with Buckram. Although the name of this product is a mouthful, the product itself is fantastic. This material was specifically designed with patches in mind. We wanted to create a fabric that gets you commercial patch quality results, and so we did. 

Patch Backed Poly Twill has a heavy hold and weight due to its diagonal weave. It’s absolutely ideal for patches. What makes our Poly Twill truly special is that we have added buckram for extra stabilization between the twill and PVC, whereas general twill suppliers only offer PVC backing. This adds extra stabilization, ensuring your patches lay flat and have a stiff authentic patch feel. You can feel the difference when comparing any old fabric to this material. 

Give it a try and you won’t be disappointed. 

Click here to check out our patch backed poly twill offered in 16 different colors to give you a stiff authentic patch feel to your embroidery patches.

Embroidery Patch Extras to Ensure Beautiful Patches:

7. Mylar Embroidery Magic Sheets

If you want to give your patches extra shine and flare while at an affordable cost and lowering your fill-stitch count, Mylar is the way to go. Mylar is a partly reflective film that can be placed directly over your empty patch canvas during the fill process, or any stage of embroidery you desire for a rich, shiny look. 

Place a small square of Mylar over your patch before your preferred stitch-out and tape it down on either side to hold it in place. When your design is finished, easily peel away any excess Mylar remaining. 

Interested in trying Mylar in your own custom embroidery patches? Click here to purchase your own Mylar to add a sparkly sheen to your next project and to view our tutorial on how to use it.

Here’s a quick video showing you how to add Mylar to your embroidery patch designs using embroidery software as well:

8. Post-Patch Iron On Seal

For a true professional finish, the post-patch iron-on seal is a must. This product allows you to turn any patch into an iron-on patch. Not only that, it leaves the back of your patch looking shiny and finished, with no trims or rough surfaces -especially great for those patches using multiple colors. 

Before using post-patch iron-on seal

After using post-patch iron-on seal

The double-sided heat-activated seal allows you to apply patches to notoriously difficult garments or caps with ease. This final step of sealing your patch will create a sought-after, professional patch that you can be thrilled to show your friends, family, or clients. 

After you finish embroidering your patch, heat-press your post-patch iron-on seal onto the back of your patch. When it has cooled slightly, peel off the paper backing to reveal your shiny, finished seal. We recommend finishing all of your patches with a seal to ensure durability when laundered and to give your patch a smoother and firmer feel. 

If you’re interested in a more cleaner, professional finished look, click here to purchase your post-patch iron-on seal & to view our tutorial on how to use it.

9. Ready-Made Embroidery Patches

A great time-saving alternative to creating your own patches from scratch are ready-made patches. If you know you will be working with patches consistently or exclusively, this is a great option for you to instantly increase your profits. 

These patches are a no-hassle solution to getting your patches right the first time, every time. We provide you with a guaranteed placement process that holds your patch in place while embroidering. When the patch is finished, you can easily cut away the anchoring bobbin thread with no damage or thread remaining on the patch. 

The Ultimate Guide To Using Felt Fabric For Patches Felt Fabric

Why Go For Felt Fabric For Patches?

Felt is the most preferred choice for patches because the edges do not fray like other fabrics. Felt patches also require less edge finishing, so you don't have to worry about loose stitching. Felt makes the patches look both elegant and straightforward and also offers a wide variety of color choices.
Felt patches offer a different look than other patches. The embroidered felt patches are both simple and classic and portray a characteristic feel. What's more, you can get a wide variety of felt types and the colors of threads you want your design to be made from.

What Is Felt Fabric For Patches Best For?

Whether you're making for a patch with a simple design like a letter or number or a patch that's more detailed like a logo or a mascot, felt embroidery patches could work just fine for almost every design.
If you need something special to add to your bookbag, jacket, or purse or wanna make a complete costume patch of some sort, felt fabric is for you. Another advantage of felt material is that you can have professional-looking patches without the use of embroidery. You need the most basic sewing skills to sew them on.

Why Choose Cre8iveSkill?

We do not work with anything less than absolute perfection. Our state-of-the-art machines and our highly skilled experts ensure that your custom embroidery patches are perfect in every sense. We provide both excellence & artistry to you for your custom patches, so you can sit back and relax while getting your work done by the best in the field.

Best fabric for embroidery patches

What Material/ Fabric is Best to Make Patches?

Fabric is not just a fashion accessory, it can have many uses. There are many different types of fabrics that are suitable for embroidery, and the type you choose largely depends on the purpose of your fabric. A few fabrics to consider include cotton and polyester with a matte finish, lycra spandex, and a cotton blend.

The best fabrics for machine embroidery patches are those with a smooth surface and minimal fuzz. They should also have a high thread count and be able to hold their shape during the stitching process. There are many types of fabric to choose from when embroidering patches on garments. There are a lot of factors that need to be considered when selecting the best fabric for the job.

What are Embroidery Patches?

Embroidery patches are typically made with cotton fabric and then embellished with thread and beads. The most common type of embroidery patch is the appliqué patch. Embroidery patches have been around for centuries. In fact, they have been used to decorate clothes since the 18th century. What makes them so popular today is their versatility and ease of use. These patches are also popular for creating unique gifts such as baby blankets or even wedding favors for guests.

Cotton

The most common fabrics used for machine embroidery patches are cotton, polyester, and rayon. Cotton is often preferred because it is lightweight, soft, and easy to work with. Many people like the look of cotton fabric because it has natural fibers that are breathable.

However, the downside to cotton is that it shrinks a lot when washed and can shrink a stitch if the wrong care instructions are followed.

Acetate

Acetate is a lightweight fabric that can be easily cut and sewn. It is a natural fiber that does not stretch, fray or shrink. Acetate is also known for its durability and resistance to mildew and mold.

It has been used in the apparel industry for decades because of its versatility and softness. The fabric can be easily dyed, printed, or embroidered with any type of thread-making it ideal for use in machine embroidery patches.

Polyester

Polyester fabric is a great choice for machine embroidery patches because it is easily cut and sewn. It comes in many colors and patterns, and it's not too bulky making it perfect for creating a small patch.

It has a unique, soft, and flexible feel that makes it ideal for machine embroidery. It's also durable and stain-resistant. The fabric is pre-shrunk and easy to work with. It is a great choice for creating custom patches for the outdoors!

Silk

Silk is a woven fabric made from protein fibroin. The fibers are long, thin, and have a glossy appearance that creates a silky feeling. It is considered one of the best fabrics for machine embroidery patches because of its easy-to-work-with nature and high strength.

Silk is a highly-effective fabric for machine embroidery patches. It's soft, durable, and doesn't fray easily. It also resists wrinkles, fading, shrinking, or stretching, and doesn't require special care procedures.

Wool

There are many different types of fabric to choose from for machine embroidery patches, but wool is the most comfortable and versatile fabric for this project.

It's a natural fiber that can be easily washed and does not shrink or stretch over time. Wool also has a beautiful drape, lustrous sheen, and a warm, soft feel. All that is needed for this process is the wool fabric, thread, and design.

Polyurethane

Polyurethane is a type of polymer that is made from petroleum and other materials. It has a variety of uses in the textile industry, including as an adhesive, sealant, and fabric. Polyurethane cloth is used in machine embroidery to make patches that are durable and long-lasting.

The best way to ensure your embroidered patch will last for years is by using polyurethane cloth. This type of fabric has a smooth finish that doesn't snag easily when being pulled on by the needle while being sewn onto another piece of cloth.