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You know that moment when you see a patch and just think—“I want that on my jacket.” Maybe it’s a cool logo, a bold military emblem, or a simple leather tag that gives your backpack that premium edge.
Patches say a lot without taking up much space. But if you’re thinking of making your own, you’ve probably realized: there are a ton of different types out there. And let’s be real—trying to pick the right one can feel like wandering into a patch jungle.
So, let’s make it simple. I’ll walk you through the main types of patches—what they’re made of, how they look and feel, how they’re attached, what they cost, how long they take to make, and most importantly, who they’re best for. Whether you’re into fashion, workwear, the military scene, or merch for your band, I’ve got you covered.
Quick Comparison: Patch Types, Prices & Use Cases
| Patch Type | Best For | Key Features | Approx. Price | Production Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Embroidered | Bold, traditional designs | Raised threads, rich texture | $2.00–$5.00 | 10–14 days |
| Woven | Fine lines, small text | Flat finish, sharp detail | $1.50–$3.00 | 8–12 days |
| Printed | Budget, full-color images | Photographic detail, flat surface | $1.50–$3.00 | 7–10 days |
| PVC | Outdoor, tactical gear | Waterproof, flexible rubber feel | $2.50–$5.50 | 12–16 days |
| Leather | Classy, vintage branding | Sleek and durable, natural look | $3.00–$7.00 | 14–18 days |
| Chenille | Letterman jackets, retro vibes | Fluffy texture, thick and colorful | $3.00–$6.50 | 12–16 days |
1. Embroidered Patches
This is the patch that started it all—classic, textured, and instantly recognizable. Embroidered patches are made by stitching threads onto a fabric backing, which gives them that raised, tactile feel.
Why people love them:
- Rich, traditional texture
- Looks great on uniforms, jackets, caps
- Works best with bold shapes and clean designs
Attachment methods:
You can sew them on, iron them on, or use Velcro (great for military and tactical use).
Production time:
Around 7 to 10 days, depending on size and complexity. Larger or more detailed designs might take a little longer.
Typical price:
$2.00 to $5.00 per patch, depending on size, number of colors, and quantity. (Yep—ordering more usually brings the cost down.)
Best for:
Military, clubs, uniforms, fashion brands, collectibles.
2. Woven Patches
Think of woven patches as the cleaner, more detail-oriented sibling of embroidery. Instead of stitching over fabric, thin threads are woven together, so you get sharp detail and smooth lines.
Why people love them:
- Great for small text and crisp logos
- Sleek, professional appearance
- Feels less bulky than embroidery
Attachment methods:
Sew-on, iron-on, or Velcro are all options.
Production time:
Typically 6 to 9 days, faster than embroidery since it’s less textured.
Typical price:
$1.50 to $3.00 per patch. Pricing varies depending on size and thread count.
Best for:
Company logos, uniforms, sports teams, detailed brand designs.
3. Printed Patches
If your design has gradients, photos, or lots of colors, printed patches are the way to go. These are made using heat transfer or sublimation, which basically prints your art right onto fabric.
Why people love them:
- Full-color prints with photo-quality detail
- Great for promotional items or limited runs
- Thin and lightweight
Attachment methods:
Usually iron-on or sew-on.
Production time:
5 to 8 days, depending on quantity. They’re quick and efficient to produce.
Typical price:
$1.50 to $3.00 per patch, making them a cost-effective option for colorful designs or large batches.
Best for:
Events, giveaways, artist merch, custom artwork.
4. PVC Patches
These are the tough ones. Made from soft, flexible plastic, PVC patches are durable, waterproof, and perfect for outdoor or heavy-use gear. You can even mold them into custom shapes or add 3D effects.
Why people love them:
- Weatherproof and fade-resistant
- Bold, colorful, and super durable
- Great for tactical or utility gear
Attachment methods:
Most commonly Velcro, but sewing or adhesive options are available too.
Production time:
Around 10 to 14 days, especially if you’re creating a custom mold.
Typical price:
$2.50 to $5.50 per patch, depending on size, layers, and mold detail.
Best for:
Military units, outdoor brands, tactical gear, sports accessories.
5. Leather Patches
For a more subtle, high-end look, leather patches are a great choice. Made from real or faux leather, these usually feature engraved or embossed designs for that minimal but premium touch.
Why people love them:
- Stylish and durable
- Ideal for branding on clothing and accessories
- Pairs well with denim, knitwear, and canvas
Attachment methods:
Usually sewn on. Iron-on is an option with PU leather; rivets or adhesive are sometimes used for bags and hats.
Production time:
7 to 10 days, depending on material and shape.
Typical price:
$3.00 to $7.00 per patch. Genuine leather is pricier than PU alternatives.
Best for:
Jeans, beanies, high-end apparel, artisan brands.
6. Chenille Patches
These are the soft, fluffy, old-school varsity-style patches. Chenille is made from looped yarn, giving it that fuzzy texture and bold, puffy lettering.
Why people love them:
- Warm, nostalgic look
- Soft to the touch and visually bold
- Great for team jackets and streetwear
Attachment methods:
Usually sewn on—especially on thicker materials like wool jackets.
Production time:
9 to 12 days, depending on color changes and size.
Typical price:
$3.00 to $6.50 per patch, depending on design complexity and dimensions.
Best for:
Letterman jackets, sportswear, retro designs, youth fashion.
Quick Note on Pricing & Timing
Prices vary depending on a few things:
- Patch size
- Number of colors
- Backing type (Velcro, iron-on, sew-on, etc.)
- Order quantity (bulk = better pricing)
- Special effects (like 3D molding, metallic threads, or laser engraving)
And while production usually takes 1 to 2 weeks, we always recommend checking with your manufacturer ahead of time—especially if you’re on a tight deadline or want something extra custom.
Let’s Make Your Patch Happen
Hopefully, this helped you cut through the confusion and figure out which patch type suits your style, needs, and budget. Whether you’re creating something for your team, your brand, or just your own collection—it all starts with choosing the right patch.
Ready to bring your idea to life?
We make high-quality custom patches for creators, businesses, and organizations around the world. Friendly service, fair pricing, fast production—what more could you ask for?
👉 Reach out to us today, and let’s start creating something awesome.
