Custom Iron-On Patches

Yes. A properly applied iron-on patch survives normal machine washing (cold or warm, garment inside out) for approximately 50 wash cycles before the adhesive begins to weaken. For garments washed more than 30 times per season such as game jerseys, work uniforms, or industrial wash items, sew-on backing is the more reliable long-term choice. Reinforcing an iron-on patch with a few stitches around the edge extends bond life significantly.

Iron-on backing is available on embroidered, woven, printed (sublimation), and leather patches. It is not available on PVC (the molded rubber cannot tolerate the heat-press temperature) or on chenille (the textured yarn surface prevents reliable adhesive bond). For PVC and chenille, the default backing is sew-on, and Velcro (hook-and-loop, +$30 flat per order) is available as an alternative.

Yes. Iron-on patches can be sewn directly through the adhesive backing. Many buyers iron the patch on first to hold it in position, then sew around the edge for permanent attachment. This hybrid application is the standard approach for garments that will be washed frequently or used in high-wear conditions.

5 pieces. The 5-piece minimum applies across embroidered, printed, and leather iron-on patches. Woven iron-on patches have a 10-piece minimum because of the schiffli loom setup. There are no setup fees, no digitizing fees, and no small-order surcharges. The 5-piece tier uses the same materials, the same Pantone color matching, and the same money-back guarantee as a 1,000-piece order.

Step 1: preheat a household iron to the cotton or linen setting (medium-high heat, no steam). Step 2: place the patch adhesive-side down on the garment in the desired position. Step 3: cover with a thin cotton cloth or pressing sheet. Step 4: press straight down with firm pressure for 30 to 45 seconds. Do not slide the iron. Step 5: flip the garment inside out and repeat the press from the back side for another 20 seconds. Step 6: let the patch cool completely before handling. The bond strengthens after the first wash.

Iron-on patches work well on hats, casual jackets, denim, canvas backpacks, cotton t-shirts, polos, hoodies, scout uniforms, sashes, and tote bags. They work less reliably on heat-sensitive fabrics (nylon, polyester athletic wear, vinyl), waterproof or coated fabrics, ribbed knits, and structural turnout coats or active firefighting gear. For heat-sensitive or specialty fabrics, sew-on or Velcro backing is the safer choice.

Iron-on patches are priced as base patch price plus zero backing upcharge. Iron-on is standard backing on all eligible patch types. Embroidered iron-on patches start at $1.20 per piece at 1,000 quantity under 4 inches, $2.40 per piece at 100 quantity, and $3.60 per piece at the 50-piece starter pack. Woven iron-on starts at $2.00 per piece at 1,000 quantity. Printed iron-on starts at $0.71 per piece at 5,000 quantity (2-inch reference). The published per-piece price includes free worldwide shipping, the digital mockup in 12 to 24 hours, and unlimited free revisions.