Embroidered vs PVC vs Chenille vs Woven Patches: Which Should You Choose?
Quick answer: Choose embroidered for a classic stitched look, woven for fine detail and small text, PVC for waterproof toughness, chenille for a fluffy varsity style, printed for full colour artwork and leather for a premium label look. The right choice depends on where the patch will be used and how detailed your design is.
By the Prime Promo Gear team, custom patch makers. Last updated: 2 November 2026.
Key takeaways
- Embroidered is the all round classic.
- Woven holds the finest detail and small text.
- PVC is waterproof and the most durable.
- Chenille gives the textured varsity look.
- Printed handles photos and gradients.
Quick comparison table
| Type | Detail | Durability | Waterproof | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Embroidered | Good | High | No | Uniforms, clubs, caps |
| Woven | Very high | High | No | Small text, fine logos, labels |
| PVC | High, raised 3D | Very high | Yes | Tactical, outdoor, workwear |
| Chenille | Low to medium | High | No | Varsity jackets, sports |
| Printed | Photo level | Medium to high | No | Full colour artwork |
| Leather | Medium | Very high | Water resistant | Hats, denim, brand labels |
Embroidered patches
Made with thread stitched onto a twill base. They have a raised, textured look and suit most uses. You can choose 50%, 75% or 100% embroidery coverage, metallic or glow in the dark thread, and merrowed, hot cut or die cut borders. See custom embroidered patches.
Woven patches
Made with thinner thread woven tightly together, which gives a flat surface and much finer detail. Choose woven when your logo has small text or thin lines that embroidery cannot hold. See custom woven patches.
PVC patches
Moulded from soft, flexible PVC. They are waterproof, do not fray and keep their colour. Read our full PVC patches guide or go straight to custom PVC patches.
Chenille patches
Made from looped yarn that creates a soft, fluffy texture, the classic look of varsity and letterman jackets. Best for bold letters, numbers and simple shapes. See custom chenille patches.
Printed and leather patches
Printed patches reproduce photos, gradients and complex artwork in full colour. Leather patches are debossed or laser engraved for a premium, natural look that suits hats, jeans and brand labels.
How to choose in three questions
- Will it get wet or dirty? Choose PVC.
- Does it have small text or fine lines? Choose woven or printed.
- Do you want a classic or retro look? Choose embroidered, chenille or leather.
Frequently asked questions
Which patch type lasts the longest?
PVC and leather last the longest. PVC is also waterproof and does not fray.
Is woven better than embroidered?
Woven is better for fine detail and small text. Embroidered is better for a raised, textured look.
Which patches are best for jackets?
Embroidered and chenille are the most popular for jackets. Chenille suits varsity styles and embroidered suits almost any jacket.
Which patches are best for hats?
Embroidered, PVC and leather patches are all popular on caps. Leather gives a premium look and PVC gives a modern, durable look.
Can I mix patch types in one order?
Each patch type is ordered on its own product page, so you can add several types to the same basket.
About Prime Promo Gear
Prime Promo Gear Ltd is a UK company registered in England and Wales (company number 17397732). We make custom embroidered, woven, PVC, chenille, leather and printed patches in our own workshop and ship them worldwide. This guide is based on the patches we produce every day. Questions? Email support@primepromogear.com.
Still unsure? Email us your artwork and we will recommend the best patch type, or browse all patch types.
