Patch Care Guide

Patches are pretty easy to take care of. Here’s everything you actually need to know.

Iron-On Patches

Before You Start

Good for Iron-On

Iron-on patches work best on cotton, denim, canvas, wool, and linen.

Sew it

For polyester, nylon, leather, heavily textured fabrics, or anything heat-sensitive, sew the patch on instead.

How to Apply

  1. 1

    Start clean.

    Wash and dry your garment before applying the patch.

  2. 2

    Heat your iron.

    Use the correct heat setting for your fabric and turn steam OFF.

  3. 3

    Place your patch.

    Put it where you want it and cover it with a thin cotton towel or old T-shirt.

  4. 4

    Press for 90 seconds.

    Apply firm pressure over the entire patch. Never place the iron directly on the embroidery.

  5. 5

    Flip & press again.

    Turn the garment inside out and press the back of the patch for another 30 seconds.

Let everything cool completely before testing the edges.

Want It to Stay Put?

Iron-on adhesive is convenient. Sewing is stronger.

For jackets, bags, or anything that gets heavy use, adding a few stitches around the edge is the best way to keep your patch attached for years.

Washing & Care

Your patch can handle life. It just doesn't love laundry machines.

Best option:

Hand wash in cold water and air dry.

If you use a washing machine:

Turn the garment inside out, wash cold on a gentle cycle, and air dry.

Avoid:

  • The dryer
  • Bleach
  • Fabric softener
  • High heat
  • Ironing directly on the embroidery

Patch Peeling?

Reapply it using the ironing instructions above.

If it still won't stick, the fabric probably isn't a good match for iron-on adhesive. Sew it down and you're good to go.

Velcro Patches

Velcro patches are even easier.

Stick them onto any loop panel (the soft side of Velcro) and swap them whenever you want.

No Velcro panel?

Your patch includes a separate loop backing piece. Sew that piece onto your jacket, bag, hat, or other gear and attach the patch to it.

Cleaning Velcro Patches

Remove the patch before washing your gear whenever possible.

If the patch itself gets dirty, hand wash it in cold water and let it air dry.

Still Have Questions?

Something weird happen? We're happy to help.

A real human will get back to you.

Email Us support@retrogradesupplyco.com