How to Make Patches: A Step-by-Step Guide to Custom Embroidery Trends

Custom embroidery patches are taking the fashion and branding world by storm. Whether you’re creating personalized patches for your business, team, or personal projects, embroidery techniques like custom PVC patches, custom embroidery patches, and custom chain stitch patches offer unlimited creative possibilities.

In this guide, SBS Digit—your go-to provider of embroidery digitizing services in the USA—will walk you through the process of making high-quality custom patches.

Why Are Custom Embroidery Patches So Popular?

Custom patches add a unique touch to apparel, accessories, and uniforms. Whether for businesses, sports teams, or personal expression, these patches:

✅ Enhance branding with logos and designs
✅ Offer durability for long-term wear
✅ Provide a stylish touch to clothing and accessories
✅ Can be sewn, ironed, or stuck onto fabric

Now, let’s dive into how you can make them!

Step 1: Decide on Your Patch Type

Before starting, choose the type of patch that suits your needs:

1️⃣ Custom Embroidery Patches – Traditional and textured, perfect for detailed designs.
2️⃣ Custom PVC Patches – Made from soft rubber, offering durability and waterproof benefits.
3️⃣ Custom Chain Stitch Patches – Vintage-style patches with looping stitches, great for classic aesthetics.

Each type requires a slightly different production method, so pick the best fit based on your design goals.

Step 2: Design Your Patch

Your patch design needs to be clean and precise for embroidery. Follow these tips:

???? Use high-contrast colors for visibility.
???? Keep details bold—thin lines may not embroider well.
???? Define edges with borders for a professional finish.

???? Pro Tip: Use SBS Digit’s embroidery digitizing services in the USA to convert your artwork into stitch-ready embroidery files.

Step 3: Choose the Right Fabric and Thread

Selecting high-quality materials ensures a durable and professional patch:

✔ Fabric: Twill, felt, or canvas for embroidered patches; PVC for rubberized patches.
✔ Thread: Polyester or rayon for embroidery; cotton for chain stitch patches.
✔ Backing Options: Iron-on, Velcro, adhesive, or sew-on.

Step 4: Embroidery Digitizing

This step is crucial! Embroidery digitizing transforms your design into a machine-readable format.

???? How to Digitize Your Patch:

1. Convert your design into a vector format.
2. Use specialized software (or professional digitizing services like SBS Digit) to map out stitches.
3. Adjust stitch density, direction, and underlay for accuracy.

⚡ Need help? Let SBS Digit handle the digitizing for you!

Step 5: Embroider the Patch

Once your design is digitized, it’s time to embroider:

???? For Machine Embroidery:

• Load the design into an embroidery machine.
• Hoop your fabric with stabilizer.
• Let the machine stitch the design.

???? For Handmade Chain Stitch Patches:

• Use a chain stitch needle and embroidery hoop.
• Follow the design, creating continuous loops.

Step 6: Cut and Finish Your Patch

Once the embroidery is done:

✂ Cut out the patch neatly.
???? Seal the edges with a hot knife or heat sealant to prevent fraying.
???? Apply backing (iron-on, Velcro, or adhesive).   

Step 7: Attach Your Custom Patch

Now, it’s time to put your patch to use!

???? Sew it onto garments for a classic look.
???? Iron it onto backpacks, hats, or uniforms.
???? Stick it using Velcro for easy removal.

Why Choose SBS Digit for Custom Embroidery Patches?

At SBS Digit, we specialize in:

✅ High-quality embroidery digitizing services in the USA
✅ Custom PVC patches, chain stitch patches, and embroidery patches
✅ Fast turnaround and professional results

Whether you're making patches for a business, brand, or personal use, SBS Digit ensures precision and quality every time.

???? Need a custom patch design? Contact SBS Digit today!

Final Thoughts

Custom patches are a fantastic way to personalize clothing, promote a brand, or add style to accessories. With the right design, materials, and SBS Digit’s embroidery digitizing expertise, you can create stunning patches that stand out!