Patches are a great way to upcycle your wardrobe and add personality to an otherwise basic garment.
If your patch comes with an iron-on backing, you're in luck! They are easy to apply with heat application.
Which Fabrics Can Iron-On Patches Adhere To?
Not every surface is suitable for iron-on patches, such as leather, vinyl, heat sensitive synthetic fabrics, and loosely woven fabrics. For these surfaces, it's best to sew them on with needle and thread.
Cotton, denim, wool, and tightly woven fabrics, like those of a tshirt, are best for attaching iron on patches.
If you're applying your patch onto a garment you know you will be washing a lot, the strongest application will come from sewing on directly with needle and thread. Our iron on patches can be sewn too, so you can make the decision that works best for you.
What you'll need
- Iron-on patch
- A garment suitable for iron-on backings.
- Iron
- Towel
- An iron-on sheet or pressing cloth (white cotton works well
How to Attach Iron-On Patches
* Do not use an ironing board and do not use steam! Use a table or counter top with a hard surface.
* If you are attatching your patch to a new garment, it is best to wash the garment first, to prevent issues with shrinking.
* Do not attempt to iron the appliqués on garments that cannot accept the highest heat setting on an iron. For example: leather, silk or nylon.
- Set the iron on the cotton/linen setting. Allow time for the iron to get hot.
- Place a terry cloth towel on the table or counter top. Place the garment on the towel.
- Position the appliqué(s) on the garment.
- Cover the appliqué(s) with a pressing cloth or a Teflon ironing sheet. After making sure that the iron is hot, place the iron on the pressing cloth and appliqué(s), using very firm pressure. Do not move the iron.
- Hold the pressure for 30 to 35 seconds. (40 to 45 seconds for heavy fabrics such as denim). The goal is to melt the adhesive on the back of the appliqué into the fabric of the garment.
- Pick the iron up and repeat the process for any unheated areas.
- Allow the applique(s) and the garment to cool. Turn the garment inside out and repeat the process.
That's it! Now you're ready to rock your new patch.
How to Wash Iron-On Patches
Our patches are machine washable, but like any fine garment, they require extra care. We recommend turning your garment inside out and washing on cold gentle cycle. Hang to dry.
