The word ‘patches’ is often accompanied by branding. Businesses now use custom patches to market their brand and create a robust identity that lasts long in the minds of their audience. While branding is a vast term that involves many technicalities, the use case is often simple – to portray the best picture of your company. They flirt with the idea of using a particular item or simply marketing collateral to transform their branding game. But there are other unconventional items you can use to serve the same purpose – like custom patches!
Since you’re choosing custom patches to take the burden of stepping up your branding, you should be aware of the nitty-gritty of selecting the right backing for your custom patches.
While selecting, many people scratch their heads since they have no clue which one to go with. The range of patches and backing options is vast, which makes it challenging– like Sophie’s choice. However, this blog will turn you into a pro in backing selection.
Cardinal Thoughts To Begin With…
Before we get to the real part, you should have a few things clear in mind:
- Types of patches we are considering
- The fabric used for the application
Some factors that should be considered while making the decision are:
- Its lasting capability – built to last long.
- The application should be seamless.
Which Back Finish To Choose?
We have to understand that the custom patches which are used for branding purposes need to be in perfect form. However, that’s not limited to the front, but the backing is equally essential. This ensures a smooth placement of the blotch on the product.
Since you’re no professional, we are here to guide you on backing so you can make an informed decision depending on your requirements and make the final product an extraordinary miracle.
Velcro Backing
Velcro can be an excellent back option for any emblem. It is made of two parts, which are a hook and a loop. That is why it is also called ‘hook and loop’. Velcro might seem like a confusing option since it has two sides involved, but it often turns out to be perfect. The one side is attached to your emblem, with the other to the garment.
The idea is to easily attach or detach it from the garment anytime you want. Many embroidered patches are often preferred with Velcro since the ease of use is out of this world.
RECOMMENDATION
These are often used in military, navy, or staff uniforms simply because the detachment is super easy. However, if you’re getting it for your jacket, hats or any other accessory and like to upgrade frequently, it’s a match made in heaven.
Pin Badges
This backing is a great option to consider for your project. These go with custom patches with any design of your choice and type. Whether chenille or PVC, any patch can have a pin backing. It is used to make the attachment easy while it also gives support to the patch. Pin badges are easy to switch, so if you’re someone who likes to have options, you can go for these as your back piece.
RECOMMENDATION
These are commonly used for branding material with a logo as a design. Ideal for bags, uniforms, outfits and other accessories, these are versatile enough to go with any garment. With the pin back, the attachment is a breeze to any fabric.
Iron-On Backing
As the name suggests, iron on patches can easily be attached by using iron. The patches are covered with adhesive that activates with heat and thus can be stuck to the material. All you need is an iron as a resource. Simply place the patch on the material you want it to stick to and iron it for around 60-80 seconds. It’s now ready to use.
The application is a cinch. However, its longevity is affected after certain washes. They usually don’t last long as other backing would.
RECOMMENDATION
These are ideal for casual wear, made of cotton, denim or similar fabrics. Since they require high heat, they aren’t suitable for silk or polyester material. Their life shortens on activewear as the material is stretchy and allows rigorous movement.
Sticker Peel Backing
The concept is very similar to the last one with the adhesive attachment. Like any sticker, these have a sticky back covered with peel able paper. This is to save the patch for later and instant use. These are made in any design as per your preference. Ideally, they are made for short-term use, including costumes for plays and events.
Moreover, you don’t need any supporting material for the attachment procedure. Simply take off the film and stick it to the surface –it’s that simple.
RECOMMENDATION
As we have already discussed its use, we know they are perfect for short-term projects. Moreover, the adhesive power isn’t long-lasting and cannot handle stretchy and smooth surfaces. So, they aren’t recommended for spandex and polyester materials. But they do their job to any fabric for a short period of time.
Sew On Backing
This is the preferred way of attaching patches to any product or fabric. Whether PVC or embroidered patches, the sewing option is always the best. Unlike patches with iron on backing, these are highly durable and have a lasting nature. The application method is super simple. You just have to place the emblem on the product and stitch it around. Most of these patches have a side space for stitching smoothly. Not only are they perfect for long-term use, but look flawless to the touch. You can either go for machine stitching or even hand stitching, depending on the project and time. However, the machine stitching is crisper and blends seamlessly.
RECOMMENDATIONS
Patches with these backings are highly durable, and the stitching makes the binding almost impossible to come off. Since they are attached particularly by machine, they go perfectly with any fabric or product. Whether polyester or denim, it attaches to every fabric like a dream.
In a Nutshell…
It’s all up to your preference and use. Now that you’re entirely aware of the most common option and its fundamentals, you can make a wise decision. Depending on the goal you have in mind, you can easily select the options right away without any hesitation. This means the future is bright, and you can now multiply the results by making the right choice.