Find answers to common questions about our Custom Patches, ordering process, shipping, and more. Can't find what you're looking for? Contact our support team.
Ordering Process
The best material for custom patches is twill fabric for embroidery, polyester for printed patches, and felt for handmade options. These offer durability, clean stitching, and excellent color retention.
Printed custom patches are made using dye-sublimation printing on polyester. The design is heat-transferred and finished with an iron-on, Velcro, or sew-on backing for easy application.
The international customs code for embroidered patches is typically HS Code 5810.92.10. Always verify with your local customs authority for accuracy.
Use a cut-away or tear-away stabilizer when making embroidered patches. It keeps the design crisp and prevents puckering during dense stitching.
Shipping & Delivery
To create custom patches at home:
Choose fabric and stabilizer
Digitize your design
Use an embroidery machine or hand embroidery
Finish with an iron-on, Velcro, or sew-on backing
Avoid using iron-on patches on leather, nylon, silk, or waterproof materials. These fabrics can't handle the heat or don't allow proper adhesion.
A multi-needle embroidery machine (like Brother or Tajima) is best for professional custom patch production. Entry-level machines also work for hobbyists.
Payment Options
Yes, you can turn a photo into a custom patch by converting the image into a digital embroidery file or printing it via sublimation.
Embroidered patches are stitched for texture and durability, while printed patches use ink for detailed, high-resolution designs. Choose based on your branding needs.
To avoid copyright issues with embroidery:
Avoid using copyrighted logos or images in custom patch designs
Use original artwork
Get licensing permission to stay compliant
Product Information
Custom Ink offers limited custom patch options. For full control, quality, and branding flexibility, choose a specialist like Custom Patches by Fineyst.
Yes, most custom patches—especially embroidered ones—are a form of decorative embroidery, stitched onto fabric and finished with a backing.
Alternatives to stabilizers include:
Felt
Interfacing
Double layers of thick fabric
However, true custom patches require stabilizers for best results.
Stabilizers are temporary and support the design during stitching. Interfacing is permanent and adds structure to the fabric after stitching.
Returns & Refunds
The best sewing techniques for patches are:
Satin stitch - protects edges from fraying
Zig-zag stitch - provides secure attachment
Both techniques give a clean, professional finish to custom patches.
To turn hand embroidery into a patch:
Embroider your design on fabric with a stabilizer
Trim the patch to desired shape
Add a backing
This converts handwork into a functional custom patch.
Hobby Lobby sells pre-made iron-on patches and embroidery kits but does not offer custom patch manufacturing.
Custom Design
To start using patches:
Select your custom patch type—embroidered, woven, or printed
Choose an application method: iron-on, sewing, or Velcro
Apply it to your item depending on your use case
Sew-on patches are more permanent and durable, especially on washable fabrics. Iron-on patches are faster but may peel over time.
If your iron-on patch doesn't stick, check these common issues:
The fabric might be incompatible
The iron may be too cool
You're not applying enough pressure
Twill is the most commonly used fabric for embroidered patches. Polyester works best for printed patches due to its ink absorption.
A heavy-duty cut-away stabilizer is ideal for embroidered custom patches, especially on complex or high-density designs.
Yes, a sewing machine works well for attaching custom patches using zig-zag or straight stitches, depending on your fabric and finish.
Use a sharp embroidery needle, size 75/11 or 80/12, for most custom patches. For thick fabrics, a 90/14 needle is better.
Creating one custom patch takes 15–60 minutes, depending on design complexity. Bulk orders may take 3–7 business days.
Iron-on patches are not waterproof. Use Velcro patches if you need to remove them for showers or washing.
Yes, you can attach patches without sewing using these methods:
Iron-on patches
Heat-seal patches
Adhesive custom patches
However, sewing offers the best long-term durability.
The main types of custom patches are:
Embroidered patches
Woven patches
Printed patches
Yes, ordering custom patches in bulk is usually more cost-effective than direct embroidery on each garment, and allows flexibility in placement.
A bullion patch is a high-end custom patch made from coiled gold/silver thread. Often handmade, it's used for uniforms or ceremonial garments.
No, selling Disney-themed patches without a license is illegal. It violates both copyright and trademark laws.
Artists avoid copyright infringement through these methods:
Create original custom patch designs
Use content from the public domain
License existing artwork legally
Yes, using trademarked logos in custom patches without permission is a legal violation. Always get authorization or use your own branding.
Still Have Questions?
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