Backing options

How your patch attaches

Every patch we make can be finished three different ways, at no difference in price. The right choice depends on what the patch is going on and whether you ever want to take it off again.

Iron-On

Convenient application with heat

A heat-activated adhesive film on the back. Press with a household iron for about 30 seconds and the patch bonds to the fabric. Best on cotton, denim and canvas. Great for quick, no-sew application.

Best for
Denim jackets, tote bags, t-shirts, caps

Not recommended for nylon, leather or waterproof fabrics — the heat can damage them. Sew the edges too if the garment gets heavy washing.

Sew-On

Secure option for long-term use

A plain fabric back with a clean stitched border, made to be sewn straight onto the garment. The strongest, longest-lasting attachment there is, and the traditional choice for uniforms and letterman jackets.

Best for
Uniforms, varsity jackets, workwear, anything washed often

The standard option, and included at no extra cost.

Velcro (Hook & Loop)

Removable and reusable

A hook-and-loop backing sewn to the patch, with the matching loop piece supplied. Pull the patch off and swap it whenever you like — the same patch can move between jackets, vests and bags.

Best for
Tactical gear, work vests, flight jackets, backpacks

We supply both the hook and loop sides so you can attach it anywhere.

Side by side

Quick comparison

  Iron-On Sew-On Velcro
How permanent is it? Semi-permanent Permanent Fully removable
Do you need sewing skill? No Yes, or a tailor Once, to fit the loop panel
Time to apply About 30 seconds 10–20 minutes by hand Instant, after setup
Survives heavy washing Usually, edges may lift Yes Yes — remove first
Works on nylon or leather No — heat damages them Yes Yes
Can you swap it later? No Only by unpicking Yes, endlessly
Extra cost None None None
Applying it

How to iron a patch on properly

  1. Set the iron to high, no steam. Cotton setting, around 150 °C / 300 °F. Steam stops the glue bonding.
  2. Pre-heat the spot. Iron the bare fabric for a few seconds so it is warm and flat.
  3. Position the patch. Lay it exactly where you want it. Once it bonds, it does not move.
  4. Cover with a thin cloth. A tea towel or pillowcase protects both the patch and the garment.
  5. Press hard for 30 seconds. Firm, steady downward pressure — do not slide the iron around.
  6. Turn it inside out and press the back for 15 seconds. This is the step most people skip, and it roughly doubles how long the bond lasts.
  7. Let it cool completely. Give it a few minutes before touching or wearing it.
One honest caveat: adhesive is still adhesive. For anything washed weekly, or for a large or heavy patch, run a few stitches around the edge afterwards. It takes two minutes and turns a good bond into a permanent one.

Still deciding?

Tell us what the patch is going on and we will recommend the backing that actually suits it. Choose "not sure" on the quote form — it is a completely normal answer.

Get a free quote Ask us first