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 every patch type we make. What changes is the technique, not the availability. Embroidered, woven, printed (sublimation), leather and sequin are pressed from the front. PVC and chenille are pressed from behind, through the garment, so the heat reaches the adhesive without touching the molded rubber or flattening the yarn pile. Sew-on and Velcro (hook-and-loop, charged separately on every order) remain available on every type.

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 every iron-on patch type — embroidered, woven, printed, and leather alike. 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 350°F (177°C) with 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 25 to 30 seconds. Do not slide the iron. Heavier fabrics need more time and pressure — a 500gsm hoodie takes longer than a t-shirt. Step 5: flip the garment inside out and press from the back side for another 10 seconds. Step 6: let the patch cool completely before handling. Two materials are exceptions. PVC: press from behind only, for the full 25 to 30 seconds, because direct front heat melts the PVC. Leather: same temperature and same timings, but the step 3 pressing cloth is mandatory, not optional — never let the iron touch the leather face directly, or it can stick or scorch. Once properly heat-pressed the bond is near-permanent, and machine washing and dry cleaning are both safe.

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 is standard backing on all eligible patch types, so iron-on patches are priced the same as the base patch with no backing upcharge. Embroidered iron-on starts at $0.91 per piece at 2x2 inches and 1,000 pieces; smaller orders cost more per piece (about $2.55 each at 100 pieces and $3.92 each at 50, for a 3-inch patch). Woven iron-on starts at $1.54 per piece and printed iron-on at $0.74 per piece, both at 2x2 inches and 1,000 pieces. The published per-piece price includes free worldwide shipping, the digital mockup in 12 to 24 hours, and unlimited free revisions.