Reasons to choose woven patches over embroidered ones (and vice versa)
Did you know patches rose to prominence in the fashion industry during the 1960s? Historically, patches served as a method of expressing identity and belonging. For example, patches were used by soldiers during World War II to signify their rank and unit.
Since then, they have been widely adopted by fashion brands, teams, and organizations in the form of woven or embroidered patches. But, what's the difference between these two patch types?
Let's take a closer look at everything you need to know about a woven vs embroidered patch.
Woven patches
Woven patches can be a great choice for those looking for a patch with intricate details or fine lines. Woven patches are made from a piece of woven fabric with the design and text embedded directly into the weave.
This gives them a crisp, clear look without much fraying or fading over time. They’re also often more cost-effective than embroidered patches due to less labor required in the manufacturing process. Additionally, woven patches are typically smaller than embroidered ones and can be applied directly to a garment without additional support, such as an iron-on backing.
On the downside, woven patches have limited color options due to the fabrics used in their construction. They’re also not very durable, so they may need to be replaced sooner than embroidered patches.
When is the best time to use woven patches?
Woven patches are great for designs that need to be small and detailed. They’re also great when you want a patch with a crisp, clear look without the extra cost of an embroidered patch.
As you might guess, woven patches are the perfect solution for complex designs with small text or intricate line details.
Embroidered patches
On the other hand, embroidered patches are created using thread with a backing to stabilize them. This can be helpful for designs that require more texture or depth.
Embroidered patches also tend to have longer durability than woven ones since they’re less prone to fading or unraveling over time. However, they may be more costly due to the extra work involved in their manufacture.
Additionally, embroidered patches are typically larger than woven patches and require a bit of additional support to attach them to garments. Typically, this is done with iron-on backing or adhesive.
When is the best time to use embroidered patches?
Embroidered patches are great for designs with bold colors, and texture. They’re also better at preserving the design over time since they won’t fade or unravel as woven patches can.
Also, if you need a large patch that is easy to apply to a shirt, then embroidered patches are the way to go. There's also something to be said about the feeling of an embroidered patch — the extra texture can make for a more luxurious look and experience.
How does flexibility differ between the two?
In general, embroidered patches are more flexible than woven ones due to the thread used in their manufacture.
This can be helpful for patch designs that have complex shapes or curves, as well as patches with tight spaces. Woven patches, though, are typically less expensive and can be applied directly to a garment without additional backing.
This makes them a more cost-effective solution under certain circumstances.
How can I make my own patch?
Once you’ve decided between a woven vs embroidered patch, it’s time to start designing your own.
You can use software such as Adobe Illustrator or CorelDRAW to design your own patch, then send the artwork off to a professional patch maker for production. It's important to remember that the bigger your patch is, the more it will cost.
It's also important to note that new designers should brush up on color theory before moving forward.
What are best practices when designing custom patches?
When designing a patch, it’s important to keep your design simple and easy to read. This will ensure that your patch stands out but won't be too overwhelming or busy. Make sure you pick high-quality materials for construction and avoid using tiny details or text that may be difficult to reproduce with the chosen material.
Lastly, be mindful of the patch size. Bigger patches tend to cost more and may not fit on every garment.
It's also important to consider how the patch will be applied, as this could affect the outcome of your final design.
Can I create my own woven patches?
Yes, but it is a time-consuming and complex process.
Woven patches can be made by hand with a loom, but for most people, it's easier to leave this job to the professionals. There are plenty of companies that specialize in custom woven patches and can help you create a patch design of your own.
They’ll also be able to guide you through the best materials and methods to use for your patch.
Once my design is ready, what should I do?
Unless you have the experience and equipment to manufacture the patch yourself, it’s best to find a professional patch maker who can create the design you have in mind.
A good patch maker will be able to advise you on the best materials and methods for your patch and should also be able to provide an estimate of how long it will take them to complete the job.
Once they’re done, you can then start selling your patches or giving them away to promote your brand.
How can custom patches help my brand?
As you may assume, custom patches are a great way to promote your brand.
They give your customers something tangible to show off their loyalty, and they can also help you stand out from the competition. Custom patches also make for fun promotional items that people will love wearing or displaying in their homes, offices, or cars. Finally, if you’re looking for a unique and creative way to add value to your brand, custom patches are a great option.
These will go a long way when it comes to showing your customers that you’re serious about making a lasting impression.
How do I find the right professional for me?
Not all companies are created equal. When looking for a professional patch maker, make sure to do your research. Look for companies that specialize in making custom patches and have good reviews from previous customers.
Additionally, consider their turnaround time and the materials they use so you can be sure you’re getting the best possible product. Finally, get an estimate of how much it will cost before you commit to any design.
With the right professional, you’ll be able to create a patch that will truly make your brand stand out.
How long does it typically take to get my patches?
This will depend on a variety of factors, including the complexity of your design, the size of your order, and the materials used for production.
Generally speaking, it takes anywhere from a few days to several weeks for most patch makers to manufacture and deliver your final product. To get an accurate timeline, it’s always best to contact the company you choose directly for more information about their turnaround time. Reputable companies will do everything that they can to get you your patches as quickly as possible.
So, keep an eye out for those that have quick turnaround times.
Is it possible to make large patches?
Yes, it’s definitely possible to make large patches.
However, when creating a larger patch design there are a few things you should keep in mind. Bigger patches tend to be more expensive than smaller ones as they require more materials and labor for production. Additionally, it’s important to consider how the patch will be applied, as this could affect the outcome of your final design.
To ensure that you’re getting the best possible product, it’s always a good idea to discuss your design with a professional patch maker before committing to any project.
They will be able to ensure that you get started on the right track and make the decision that is best for you.
Deciding between a woven vs embroidered patch is easier than it seems
Deciding between woven vs embroidered patches is an important step when it comes to designing custom patches for your brand. Keep the above guidelines in mind so that you can make the best decision for yourself and your brand in the future.
Looking for more information on how we can help? Feel free to get in touch with us today to see what we can do.
