The truth is that iron-on patches are a wonderful way to exhibit club and society emblems, honors, and badges with pride. Furthermore, since no stitching is necessary, they are quick and convenient in addition to covering damaged or frayed cloth.
But it’s crucial to apply the patch correctly! If not, it can lift or peel away, undoing all of your hard work. Let’s look at how to maintain your iron-on patch where you want it in this blog post.
How to Choose the Best Iron-On Patches
Make sure you select the appropriate type of iron-on patch for your project as there are different kinds available. For instance, some patches have an adhesive backing, while others just have a plain cloth backing.
The glue for embroidered patches is located underneath. The image is printed on the adhesive side of transfer paper patches, which should be placed face-down on the cloth. Once the patch is in place, the paper backing comes off. Sounds simple enough, no?
Fusible web can also be used to sew patches to clothing. Similar to a heat-activated glue sheet, fusible web is a man-made fiber that melts when heated.
The fusible web’s melting effect will fuse the two materials together when it is positioned in between the patch and the garment. Fusible web is simple to purchase online or in big-box retailers’ dressmaking sections.
The High Value of Applying Top-Notch Patches
MakeMyPatch high-quality patches, with their crisp colors and awesome designs, produce a dynamic appearance. Furthermore, they correctly stick to materials and clothing, removing any slip-up worries.
Cheap patches, on the other hand, have a limited color spectrum, lack vibrancy, and frequently fade or tear quickly.
Advice on Where to Find Patches with a Good Adhesive
- Select a reputable company.
- The patch should have a shiny adhesive side.
- Beware of self-stick! Choose patches that must be applied utilizing the heat and seal technique instead.
Getting the Surface Ready for the Patch
The Surface Should Be Cleaned of Any Dirt or Debris
Use a brush or sponge to gently wash the item by hand or in the machine. Before applying the patch, make sure the item is totally dry.
First wash the fabric before using fusible web on it. The finish on the fabric prevents the fusible substance from melting into the fibers, therefore if it is not pre-washed, the web will begin to come away.
Ensuring Proper Adhesion of the Patch by Making Sure the Surface is Flat and Smooth
The patch must be applied to an area that is as flat as possible because wrinkles could disrupt the bond. Keep in mind that some surfaces and textiles are simpler to handle than others.
In order to remove any wrinkles or creases, lay the garment flat. Additionally, you don’t have to utilize an ironing board! You can also use a clean kitchen counter or table, but in both cases, you should lay the item down on a sizable towel that has been doubled up to generate resistance.
Applying the Patch
When Applying the Patch, Use an Iron or Heat Press
The two main elements necessary for your patch to successfully attach are firm pressure and heat. Since patches differ, always read the manufacturer’s instructions before you begin. To determine whether a clothing is iron-friendly, look at the care label.
Heat levels are next! You should have the highest temperature on your iron. If the iron has a steam setting, turn it off and make sure the water tank is dry. Select the patch location on the clothing item and iron it first to make sure it is fully flat.
As you apply the patch, make sure it is straight. Use a tiny handkerchief or piece of linen to cover the patch while ironing; this will shield both the patch and the fabric it is attached to. Make careful you don’t unintentionally change where the patch is located underneath.
Use a stopwatch or your phone to check the initial 15 seconds of forceful pressing. Next, continue applying equal pressure while keeping the iron or press moving to prevent sticking. Apply pressure and heat continuously for around three minutes.
For about three more minutes, flip the garment over and iron the reverse of the patched area. Without covering the patch with a cloth or thin towel, complete this procedure.
After removing the iron, let the patch cool. By lightly stroking the edge with your finger, you may determine its stability. Wait until the patch has cooled before attempting to lift it; otherwise, you risk damaging the seal.
Replace the towel and push down the iron for another 10 seconds or so if the edge of the patch begins to lift. This action ought to work!
When using a paper transfer patch, let it cool completely before removing the paper backing.
Custom Patch Maintenance
What Causes the Lifting or Peeling Away of a Patch
- Application errors onto an irregular or unprepared surface.
- Not putting enough time into heating and pressing the patch on.
- Washing the item too frequently.
- Exposing the patch to very high or low temperatures.
How to Prevent Patches from Coming Off
There is an understandable concern that a patch may begin to curl away and finally fall off, even when using a high-quality patch and adhering to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Adding a stitch along the outside edge provides further assurance that your personalized patch won’t move. You only need to sew at corners or every few centimeters; you don’t need to stitch all the way around.
And don’t worry, if you use a thread that matches the colors of the patch, smaller stitches will be undetectable and won’t detract from the beauty.
Avoid overwashing the item or using excessively hot temperatures when washing it. Instead, especially when washing by hand, we advise using cool or lukewarm water. For the smoothest results while using a washing machine, select the delicate cycle.
When washing a garment, always flip it inside out. Never dry an article with artificial heat; let it air dry instead, and stay out of direct sunshine. A backpack, for example, can be sponge-cleaned to maintain it clean while avoiding the patch.
To Sum It Up
Check out the huge variety at MakeMyPatch for strong, long-lasting patches that provide design clarity and a variety of colors. With these helpful maintenance and care hints, our patches are well-made and stay put firmly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Method for Applying Iron-On Patches?
Use even heat and pressure on a flat, clean surface as directed by the manufacturer. For the best results, always make sure the iron is hot enough and that the pressure is applied continuously and evenly.
Can I Apply the Patch with a Hair Dryer instead of an Iron?
A hair dryer can generate heat quickly, but it can’t apply pressure evenly, which is necessary for a hard, stable stick.
However, here’s an intriguing trick: since they clamp the patch to the material more evenly, hair straighteners can seal an iron-on patch. Be patient with the sealing procedure because straighteners aren’t known for being wide.
What Should I Do if My Patch Is Starting to Peel Off?
Just as you did when you first applied the patch, apply heat again using an iron. If it doesn’t work, you might try popping a stitch where the patch is beginning to lift.
Remove the patch totally and reattach it using fabric adhesive if it is peeling so much that it has become loose. This is very normal and may occur after a few years of use and wear.
Do Certain Fabrics Require Special Directions for Patch Application?
The patch should typically be the same weight as the fabric it will be attached to. The ideal base for iron-on patches are cotton or denim.
Some materials might not work well with iron. On the maintenance and care label, search for the image of an iron with a red cross through it. If you see that symbol, you should reconsider since it can make it difficult for your patch to adhere securely.
Other materials to watch out for? While polyester may appear to be suitable for ironing on the label, using a hot iron for two to three minutes will singe the fabric or alter its color. Ouch! Patches should not be made of silk or other fragile textiles.
Do Leather or Other Non-Fabric Materials Can Be Used to Apply Iron-on Patches?
Motorcycle riders frequently wear leather jackets with patches, but this style also occasionally appears in high fashion.
Leather won’t normally accept iron-on patches, and heat can harm leather. Patches need to be sewed or glued on in this situation. However, because this is a more specialist ability, if you don’t own a reliable sewing machine, your item might need to be carried to a tailor.
Iron-on patches should not be made of synthetic fabrics like nylon or rayon since they frequently melt when exposed to high temperatures.
If you are ready to order your own custom patch, please use our simple online form or get in touch with our Creative Specialists.