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Maggie

Co-founder of Miakapatches&Oversea Project Manager

Choosing the Best Attachment Method for Custom Patches: Sew-on, Iron-on, or Sticker-on?
When ordering custom patches, there are plenty of options - but the most critical decision is the attachment method. Sew-on, iron-on, or sticker-on are regular three applications that will both do the job, but these badge backing options have pros and cons. it is up to how use them d their use. Let's explore which method suits your needs best!

1. Different Adhere Way

  • Sew-on patches–As the name suggests, these patches are Sewn onto garments or accessories giving you that air of distinction while lasting much longer. they usually have a more space border around the edge for sewing on easily. Sew-on patches come in soft and sturdy varieties. If you’re looking to spruce up an ensemble with a larger patch area, our suggestion is to provide support by adding a fabric or paper layer—so your patch won’t wilt after sewing on!
  • Iron on patches–These patches are attached to fabric using heat and pressure. It provides a convenient and easy way to add flair or repair clothes without needle and thread! Every patch’s backing has a special adhesive, it will melt under heat, bonding with the fabric securely. To ensure that the patches remain attached to your garment or material for an extended period of time, it is important to use high-quality adhesive and the right way for ironing the patch on.
  • Sticker on patches— Same as a normal sticker, just using a sticky adhesive backing. most of them are made from vinyl to other durable materials. they are less long-lasting than Sew on and iron-on patches, but quick& easy to add the patch onto the fabric like a regular paper sticker. it won’t budge even wash 2-3 times.

2. Different Cost

  • Sew-on patches-yes, this is a budget-friendly way. because they have no other special material on the back. You just some needle & thread to sew the patch on a bag or clothes. larger and more intricate patches will be more expensive. the price of sew-on patches is up to the size and complexity of the design,
  • Iron-on patches— are usually slightly more expensive than sewn-on patches and cheaper than stick-on patches. they have a special adhesive added to the back which can withstand high temperatures. This allows the consumer to use an iron ton to bond the patch securely to the fabric or garment. The iron-on patches are still a great, affordable option because the price difference is usually not so huge.
  • Sticker on patches-Sticker patches might be the pricier option, but they’re made with special material. Also, either a layer of white paper will be glued behind the adhesive, or the white paper will be removed and the patch glued directly to the PVC sheet. Labor costs add up quickly in production too, so expect them to cost 15-25% more than similar Iron on Patches!

Don’t worry about price when picking which one is best for you; it’s all down to personal preference based on your project needs!

3. Different Application

Yes, when you know the different cost and adhesive ways between SEW ON PATCHES, IRON ON PATCHES, and STICKER ON PATCHES, Perhaps you still have no idea which type of patch is best suited for your applications. Here’s a breakdown of each type:

patch on shoes 1
Photo from Pinterest
  • Sew-on patches —-they are the perfect choice for durable items such as sportswear, denim jackets, and backpacks, thanks to their embroidered material and excellent durability. To attach them to garments, they need to be sewn on, which provides excellent abrasion resistance.
  • Iron-on patches —offer an easy and efficient way to add personalized patches to clothes, hats, or bags. These patches are easy to apply via ironing, and their strong adhesive ensures they remain secure even after being washed. They work perfectly for fabrics like polyester and nylon that cannot be sewn! Just remind that iron-on patches should not be applied to any leather products such as leather jackets and bags. because heat from Iron will distort or damage the leather.
  • Sticker-on patches: Peel off the backing paper and easily attach these decorations to any smooth surface, such as phones, laptops, water bottles, and bags. They are perfect for customized logos on hats or T-shirts for meetings or company parties. When you’re done admiring your new look, simply remove them without leaving any residue. The possibilities are endless!

Finally, let me create a simple table so you can easily compare sew-on patches, iron-on patches,

ProductsAttachment MethodDurabilityCostApplicationApplicable GarmentsRemark
Sew On PatchesSewingVery durableLowClothing, Bags, Shoes, fabric, etc.Suitable for any type of garmentRequires manual labor and takes a longer time
Iron On PatchesHeat Iron-onMay peel offMediumClothing, Fabric Art, bagSuitable for woven or cotton garments Clothing, no real LeatherTemperature and time should be controlled well, otherwise, patches may fall off or become uneven
Iron on &Sticker On PatchesSticker-typeNot very durablehighBackpacks, Notebooks, Phones, DIY crafts, etc.Suitable for lightweight fabricsMay peel off after multiple washes

Please note that the above information is for reference only, and you should choose the patch type that best suits your needs based on actual requirements. Also, the information may vary depending on different factors such as garment type, patch material, and quality.

Contact Miakapatches Now!

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