So let us tell you everything you need to know about leather patches.
1. Select the Leather Type
You can find leather patches made from various types of leather, such as cowhide, suede leather, and PU leather. Depending on the effect you want to achieve with your leather patch, select the right material for it. For example, if you’re looking for a more vintage look, choose real leather; if you want soft touch, perhaps suede would be better. If you’re after more colors and shine, then PU leather will suit your needs more.
Consider the type of leather that will be used for the patches, as different types of leather will have different characteristics and qualities.
Cowhide
Animal skin processing, soft, tough, and elastic texture, good resistance to labor plasticity.
But we don’t suggest making real leather patch, we need to protect the animals!!
Second Layer Leather
Also known as genuine leather, its reverse side is the second layer of leather, the surface is coated with PU leather processing, a poor resistance line. the cost will be much cheaper than the first Layer of Leather. yes, it is still from animals. it will be used to make sew-on elbow patches, special for men’s suits or sweaters in European.
Microfiber Leather
It is Made of leather fibers, leather-like material, soft and delicate as flexible and wear-resistant as real leather. It is a high-grade material in synthetic leather, cold-resistant and breathable.
Because it is a soft texture, aging resistance, environmental protection, and beautiful appearance, that’s why become the ideal alternative to natural leather. Compared to ordinary PU leather, the price of microfiber leather is several times.
PU Leather
The popular synthetic leather materials are not afraid of moths and have good surface water resistance. They also provide the characteristics that pure colors can be achieved with ease while maintaining their durability in high temperatures or chemical substances like acids! As such they’re an excellent choice for any patches project because these products don’t easily get ruined–even when left out overnight without protection against moisture build-up on your clothes (which could lead to mold!).
Thanks to this fabric’s ability, you don’t need to spend time sewing on elbow patches or badges. All it takes is iron! It saves time and energy.
Although so many choices for leather types, however, the most common type of leather used for patches are cowhide and suede, as they are durable and easy to work with. No matter whether you choose, please double-check that your patch is high-quality material. Poor quality leather is always flawed in touch, appearance, and smell. even can’t pass the lead test if you sell in American retailers.
2. Choose the Leather Patch Shape &Size
Different leather patches have different shapes and sizes, from small round leather patches to large rectangle leather ones. Some common shapes for leather patches include rectangular, square, oval, and circular, while common sizes range from small (1-2 inches) to large (4-6 inches) depending on the size of the item the patch is being applied to. It is important to carefully consider the shape and size of the patch to ensure it fits well and looks aesthetically pleasing on the item.
You can choose the shape you want depending on what you’re going to use it for — for example, if you create a leather patch for hat or bag products, then choose a smaller circular one. if you want to use them as elbow patches, an oval shape is the most style.
For other uses such as branding logos on jeans or jackets retainer straps etc., there are many different styles available–from simple oval decorations right up to more elaborate designs.
3. Select the Leather patch’s finishing
Same as regular patches, many different processes can be used to create the desired effect on the leather. like Embossed finish, Debossed finish, Stamped finish, Foil finish, Perforated finish, Metallic finish, and so on.
Hot Press
Heat pressing is one such process, giving it three-dimensional depth and concavity which make patches look more authentic than ever before!
Screen Printing
Screen printing can meet the demand for the rich color of leather patch patterns with bright colors. It’s a great way to combine with other processes such as heat pressing, hardware inlay, and hollowing to achieve a unique leather patch design.
Embroidery Combination
The delicate embroidered pattern with the leather adds a subtle touch. The manufacturers of luggage and denim are very keen on customizing these products; even LV 2020 uses an exclusive collection for their high-end customers!
Metal Inlay
Metal inlay on leather patches is also a widely used process, inlaid on leather patches whether metal logo or pattern, can show punk styles. The only problem is Metal logo cost is high with minimum quantity.
Digital Printing
Digital printing on leather patches not only has no limitation on the number of colors but also achieves a color gradient effect that screen printing cannot do.
Selecting Leather Patches Backing
Iron on leather patches
It is possible to iron on a leather patch, but it is not recommended. Real Leather is not a heat-resistant material, so exposing it to high temperatures from an iron can damage the leather patch or even cause it to melt. Additionally, the heat from the iron may cause the leather to shrink, warp, or become distorted.
Sew-on Leather patches
There is no doubt that sew-on is more solid than Iron on. If you are worried about the inaccuracy of Sewing, you can choose iron-on first, find the right place to iron, and then sew. And we will add sewing channels around the edges if you are concerned about not being able to sew in the right place.
Self-adhesive Leather Patches
Looking for a fast and easy fix? Look no further than leather patches with self-adhesive backing! They’re the perfect solution to the upholstery woes, whether it’s on furniture, vehicles, jackets, or even suitcases – just peel and stick and look good as new in no time.
Ready for Custom Leather Patches?
Leather patch not only repairs a hole in the clothing or bag. It is a great way to show off your style and personality. The different types, shapes, or styles of leather have unique characteristics that make them stand out in the crowd, so take some time choosing which one will work best with your logo or production line!
Miakapatches offers a range of customization options, such as different shapes, sizes, colors, and finishes, to ensure that any patches match your desired design and branding.
Contact one of our in-house designers for more information.