Custom Patches: The Complete Buying Guide (2026)
Quick answer: Custom patches are badges made to your own design, usually embroidered, woven, printed, PVC, chenille or leather. To order, choose the patch type, backing, shape, border and size, upload your artwork and pick a quantity. Bigger quantities lower the price per patch.
By the Prime Promo Gear team, custom patch makers. Last updated: 2 November 2026.
Key takeaways
- There are six main patch types: embroidered, woven, printed, PVC, chenille and leather.
- The backing decides how the patch attaches: sew on, iron on, Velcro, pin, magnet and more.
- Size and quantity have the biggest effect on price.
- Clean, bold artwork gives the best result on any patch type.
- You can see your exact price on each product page before you order.
What are custom patches?
A custom patch is a badge made from your own logo, artwork or text. It can be sewn, ironed or fixed with Velcro onto clothing, bags, hats and gear. Businesses use them for uniforms and merchandise, clubs and teams use them for identity, and brands use them as premium labels.
The main types of custom patches
| Patch type | Look and feel | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Embroidered | Classic raised stitching | Uniforms, clubs, jackets, caps |
| Woven | Flat, thin and very detailed | Small text, fine logos, labels |
| Printed | Full colour, photo style | Gradients and complex artwork |
| PVC | Soft, rubbery, waterproof | Tactical, outdoor and workwear |
| Chenille | Fluffy, textured, varsity style | Letterman jackets and sports |
| Leather | Debossed or engraved, premium | Hats, denim and brand labels |
Not sure which to choose? Our PVC patches guide explains when PVC beats embroidery.
Step 1: choose a backing
- Plain or sew on: the strongest and most permanent option.
- Iron on: quick to apply at home on cotton and polyester blends.
- Velcro (hook, or hook and loop): removable, ideal for tactical gear and morale patches.
- Tape, pin, magnetic and key chain: for temporary use or accessories.
Step 2: choose a shape and border
You can pick a custom shape cut around your design or one of 39 ready shapes such as circles, shields and rectangles. Embroidered patches offer three borders: a merrowed border (a thick rolled edge for simple shapes), a hot cut border (sealed edge that follows detailed shapes) and a die cut border.
Step 3: choose a size
| Size | Typical use |
|---|---|
| 2 to 3 inches | Caps, chest logos, name patches |
| 3 to 4 inches | Sleeves, bags, morale patches |
| 5 to 8 inches | Jacket fronts and large logos |
| 8 inches and up | Back patches for jackets and vests |
Step 4: prepare your artwork
- Send a vector file (AI, EPS, PDF or SVG) if you have one; a clear high resolution PNG or JPG also works.
- Keep text large enough to read at the final size.
- Use bold shapes and limit very thin lines on small patches.
- If you need help, choose design help on the product page and our team will prepare it.
Step 5: choose quantity and production speed
The price per patch drops as your quantity goes up. On each product page you enter your size and quantity and see your price straight away. Standard production is 12 working days, and faster options start from 5 working days. Standard orders ship free worldwide.
How to order
- Open the product page for the patch type you want.
- Choose backing, shape, border and any extras.
- Enter your size and quantity to see your price.
- Upload your artwork or ask for design help.
- Choose your production speed and check out.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most popular type of custom patch?
Embroidered patches are the most popular because they look classic, last well and suit most uses. PVC is growing fast for outdoor and tactical use.
How long do custom patches take?
Standard production is 12 working days, with faster options from 5 working days. Delivery time is shown on the product page before you order.
What file should I send for my patch?
A vector file such as AI, EPS, PDF or SVG is best. A clear, high resolution PNG or JPG also works, and our team can help if your file is not ready.
Can I see my patch before production?
Yes. You receive a digital proof, and on most products you can also ask for a photo of the actual patch before full production starts.
Do you ship custom patches worldwide?
Yes. Standard orders ship free worldwide.
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.
Ready to start? Browse our custom embroidered patches or any patch type and see your price in seconds.
