Most custom patches are 2 to 4 inches (5 to 10 cm), and 3 inches is the most popular size. Use the chart below to find the usual size for each placement, then download our free printable template to cut out the shapes at actual size and hold them on your hat, jacket, vest or bag before you order.
Download the free printable size chart (PDF, 6 pages)
The PDF has six pages: a printer check and quick size table, round patches from 1 to 4 inches, squares and cap shapes, name tapes and Velcro panel sizes, shield patches, and a motorcycle club back layout. Clubs, teams and designers are welcome to print it and share it.
Found your size?
Price any size from 25 pieces in seconds, then get a free mockup within 6 hours and a physical sample before production.
Patch size chart by placement
| Placement | Usual size | In cm | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cap front | 2 to 2.5 in | 5 to 6.5 cm | Taller than 2.5 in can fold over the crown |
| Beanie cuff | 2 to 3 in wide | 5 to 7.5 cm | Sew through one layer of the cuff |
| Left chest (shirt, polo) | 3 to 3.5 in | 7.5 to 9 cm | Company and logo patches |
| Jacket chest | 3.5 to 4 in | 9 to 10 cm | Larger reads better on outerwear |
| Shoulder or sleeve | 3 to 4.5 in tall | 7.5 to 11.5 cm | Uniform, department and unit patches |
| Name tape | 4 x 1 in | 10 x 2.5 cm | One line of text |
| Morale or Velcro panel | 3 x 2 in or 4 x 3 in | 7.5 x 5 or 10 x 7.5 cm | Match the loop panel on your gear |
| Flag patch | 3.5 x 2 in | 9 x 5 cm | Common for uniforms and packs |
| Bag or backpack | 3 to 4 in | 7.5 to 10 cm | Measure the flat area of the pocket |
| MC rockers | 12 to 14 x 3 to 4 in | 30 to 36 x 7.5 to 10 cm | See the rocker size guide |
| Back or center patch | 8 to 12 in | 20 to 30 cm | Large sizes are quoted by hand |
How to use the printable template
- Print at actual size. In the print window choose 100% or “Actual size”. Do not use “Fit to page”.
- Check the scale. Measure the 5 inch and 10 cm lines on page 1. If they are off, fix the setting and print again.
- Cut out a few sizes. The solid line is the patch edge. The dashed line shows roughly where the border sits.
- Try them on. Tape the cutouts to the garment and look from a few feet away, or take a photo. The size that still reads clearly from a distance is usually right.
- Check your text. Write your smallest word on the cutout. If it is hard to read, go up a size or cut words.
Smallest text for each patch type
| Patch type | Smallest text height |
|---|---|
| Embroidered | About 1/4 in (6 mm) |
| Woven | About 1/8 in (3 mm) |
| PVC | About 3/16 in (5 mm) |
| UV + PVC | About 1/8 in (3 mm) |
| Sublimated | About 1/8 in (3 mm) |
Inches to centimeters
| Inches | Centimeters |
|---|---|
| 1 in | 2.5 cm |
| 1.5 in | 3.8 cm |
| 2 in | 5.1 cm |
| 2.5 in | 6.3 cm |
| 3 in | 7.6 cm |
| 3.5 in | 8.9 cm |
| 4 in | 10.2 cm |
| 4.5 in | 11.4 cm |
| 5 in | 12.7 cm |
| 6 in | 15.2 cm |
| 8 in | 20.3 cm |
| 10 in | 25.4 cm |
| 12 in | 30.5 cm |
How size changes the price
Bigger patches use more thread or material, so price per patch goes up with size. Quantity has a bigger effect: the price per patch drops a lot as you order more. You can see both in our patch price guide or try sizes and quantities in the price calculator.
For more detail on each placement, read the custom patch size guide. New to patch terms like merrowed border or twill? See the patch glossary.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most common patch size?
3 inches (7.6 cm). It suits chest, sleeve and bag placements and is big enough for most logos to read clearly.
How do I print the patch template at the right size?
Print at 100% or “Actual size”, not “Fit to page”. Then measure the 5 inch line on page 1 with a ruler. If it is not exactly 5 inches, change the print setting and print again.
What size patch fits on a hat?
Usually 2 to 2.5 inches (5 to 6.5 cm) for a cap front. Taller patches can fold over the crown.
What size is a name tape?
Most are about 4 by 1 inch (10 by 2.5 cm). The PDF includes 3.5, 4 and 5 inch name tapes.
How is patch size measured?
Across the widest point, including the border. For non-square shapes, give the width and the height.
Can I share or print this chart for my club or team?
Yes. The size chart is free to print, share and link to. Please do not sell it.
See your design at real size
Still deciding? Send your artwork on the quote page and we show it at real size on a free digital mockup within 6 hours, then make a physical sample before production. Questions? WhatsApp us at +1-437-703-7747.