Unlike labels or stickers, patches are durable, often permanent fixtures to fabric that come in a wide range of sizes, shapes, colors, and textures. Patches can be used as effective branding or marketing, as well as personal symbolsto recognize important causes, affiliations, beliefs, or other forms of self-expression.
Branding patches are commonly distinguished between woven or embroidered techniques. While sometimes these terms can be used interchangeably, each type of patch is made differently, has a different look, and price variance.
Here’s a look at those differences to help you decide which type of custom patch is right for your needs:
Woven Patches
Typically, woven patches have better definition of the design, lettering, or logo than embroidered patches.
Because woven patches are thinner, detail can be made more intricate. Depending on the patch design, this might be something you want to prioritize. Embroidery thread is thinker and might not be the best choice for a detailed design scheme.
Woven patches also help small patches maintain their detail and integrity. Whereas embroidered patches will lose detail and strength as they get smaller, woven patches can be small and still look great.
In general, woven patchesare less expensive than embroidered patches, and they’re also a bit easier to sew or iron onto fabric because they tend to be a little thinner or flatter than their embroidered counterparts.
Woven patches can be produced in a variety of materials including cotton, satin, wool, ands many more.
Embroidered Patches
Embroidered patches are stitched with a stronger, thicker thread, giving the patch a denserlookcompared to woven patches. This gives most embroidered patches a lifted or three-dimensional appearance.
Embroidered patches use various kinds of backings, like cotton canvas, which the threads are then embroidered onto. Embroidered patches are very durable and worn on all kinds of clothing styles and accessories.
In summary, embroidery can give you the durability you need for long-lasting custom patches, but a woven patch might be a better choice if you’re looking for more detail or a lower price.
What’s more, woven and embroidered patches aren’t the only types of patches to consider. Other types of patches include Chenille, 3D PVC Patches, and even leather patches.
Review the differencescarefully. You can save time and money by ordering the right patch the first time; plus, you should order your patches from a reputable company that focuses on quality and customer service for the best value.