To sew on a patch, pin it in place, then stitch around the edge with a needle and polyester thread that matches the border, keeping each stitch about 1/8 inch (3 mm) from the edge and about 1/8 inch apart. It takes about 15 to 30 minutes by hand and works on any fabric, including leather and nylon.
Sewing is the strongest way to attach a patch. This guide covers what you need, hand sewing step by step, using a sewing machine, and the tricky fabrics.
Ordering patches to sew on?
Custom embroidered patches come with sew-on backing included, from 25 pieces. Free mockup within 6 hours and a physical sample before production.
What you need
- A needle. A regular hand sewing needle for cotton and denim. A leather needle for leather. A curved needle helps on hats and bags.
- Thread. Polyester thread matching the patch border. Clear nylon thread hides stitches if you cannot match the color.
- Pins, clips or fabric glue. To hold the patch still while you sew.
- Scissors and a thimble for thick fabric.
How to sew on a patch by hand
- Place the patch. Put the garment on, or lay it flat, and decide where the patch goes. Check it is straight.
- Hold it in place. Pin it at the corners, use clips, or use a dab of fabric glue. On an iron-on patch, you can press it on with an iron first.
- Thread the needle. Cut about 18 inches (45 cm) of thread, thread the needle and tie a knot at the end. Doubling the thread makes it stronger.
- Start from the inside. Push the needle up from the inside of the garment so the knot is hidden, coming out just inside the patch border.
- Stitch around the edge. Go down through the fabric just outside the patch, then back up through the border about 1/8 inch along. Keep the stitches even and snug, not tight.
- Finish inside. When you reach the start, push the needle to the inside, loop it under a couple of stitches and tie a knot. Trim the thread.
How to sew on a patch with a sewing machine
- Use a denim or heavy-duty needle and polyester thread that matches the border.
- Set a straight stitch, or a narrow zigzag that catches the edge of the border.
- Sew slowly around the edge, lifting the presser foot with the needle down to turn at corners and curves.
- Machines work best on flat items like jackets, bags and shirts. Hats, sleeves and leather are usually easier by hand.
Tricky fabrics
| Fabric | What to do |
|---|---|
| Leather and vests | Leather needle, waxed thread, a thimble. Pre-punch holes with an awl on thick leather. Many riders take vests to a leather shop. |
| Nylon and waterproof jackets | Sew only. Heat damages nylon. Each hole lets in a little water, so keep stitches few and neat. |
| Stretchy fabric | Use a zigzag or loose stitch so the fabric can still stretch. |
| Hats | A curved needle and short thread. See how to put a patch on a hat. |
Common mistakes
- Pulling stitches too tight. The fabric puckers around the patch.
- Stitching too far inside the border. The edge lifts and catches.
- Not checking the position first. Unpicking a crooked patch takes longer than sewing it.
- Using cotton thread. It is weaker and can shrink in the wash.
Frequently asked questions
Is it better to sew or iron on a patch?
Sewing is stronger and lasts longer, and it works on every fabric. Iron-on is quicker but only works on heat-safe fabric like cotton and denim. For leather, nylon and clothes that are washed often, sew it.
What thread should I use to sew on a patch?
Polyester thread in the same color as the patch border. It is stronger than cotton thread and does not shrink. For leather, use a heavy nylon or waxed thread.
How long does it take to sew on a patch by hand?
About 15 to 30 minutes for a 3 inch patch, depending on the shape and the fabric.
Can I sew on an iron-on patch?
Yes. The glue on the back does not stop the needle. Many people iron the patch on to hold it in place, then sew around the edge for a permanent hold.
Can I sew a patch onto leather?
Yes. Use a leather needle and strong waxed thread, and use a thimble or pliers to push the needle through. Thick leather is often done by a leather or vest shop.
Order patches that are easy to sew on
All Legion Patches come with sew-on backing included, and embroidered and woven patches have a stitched border that makes hand sewing easy. Pick your type and size on the quote page or read about backing options. Questions? Message us on WhatsApp at +1-437-703-7747.