Embroidery patches are a fun and creative way to decorate clothes, bags, hats, and other items. Whether it’s a sports logo, a fun design, or a custom-made patch for a company, patches are used everywhere. But what makes these patches stay on? It’s all about the backing.

Backing is the material or adhesive on the back of a patch that helps it stick to fabric or other surfaces. Different types of backings serve different purposes. Some are permanent, others are temporary, and some are made to allow easy removal and reuse. Picking the right backing is key to ensuring your patch stays in place as long as you need it to.

In this guide, we’ll walk through the main types of backings available for machine embroidery patches. We’ll cover the pros and cons of each type, when you should use them, and how to pick the right one for your patch project. We’ll also show how Absolute Digitizing, a custom embroidery digitizing and custom patch making company, can help you get the perfect patch with the right backing.

1. Iron-On Backing

One of the most popular backing types for machine embroidery patches is iron-on backing. This type of backing uses heat-activated glue. You simply place the patch where you want it, apply heat with a household iron, and it sticks to the fabric.

Pros:

• Easy to Apply: You don’t need any special tools besides an iron. Just heat it up and press the patch onto the fabric.
• Quick Application: Iron-on patches take only a few minutes to apply.

Cons:

• Not the Most Durable: Over time, especially after many washes, the adhesive can weaken, causing the patch to peel off.
• Not Suitable for All Fabrics: Iron-on patches can’t be used on certain fabrics like nylon or other heat-sensitive materials, which can melt under the heat.

Best For:

Iron-on patches are ideal for clothing items that won’t be washed frequently, such as jackets, bags, and hats. It’s a great option for personalizing items quickly and easily at home.

2. Sew-On Backing

Sew-on backing is a more permanent option for attaching patches. Instead of using glue, you attach the patch by sewing it directly onto the fabric with a needle and thread. This method takes a bit more effort, but it’s much more durable than iron-on backing.

Pros:

• Very Durable: Sew-on patches won’t come off easily, even after lots of washing and wear.
• Works on Any Fabric: Since you’re not using heat or adhesive, sew-on patches can be applied to any type of fabric, even delicate or heat-sensitive ones.

Cons:

• Takes More Time and Skill: You’ll need to know how to sew, and it takes longer to attach compared to iron-on or peel-and-stick patches.

Best For:

Sew-on patches are perfect for items that go through heavy use and frequent washing, such as uniforms, jeans, and sports gear. They’re also a good choice if you want the patch to be a permanent addition to your clothing.

3. Velcro (Hook-and-Loop) Backing

Velcro backing—also called hook-and-loop backing—is popular in settings where patches need to be removed or swapped out frequently. The patch has two parts: the hook side and the loop side. The hook side attaches to the patch, and the loop side is sewn onto the fabric. This allows you to remove and replace patches as needed.

Pros:

• Removable and Replaceable: Velcro patches are easy to take off and put back on, making them ideal for uniforms or gear that requires frequent patch changes.
• Durable: Velcro holds up well through regular use.

Cons:

• Bulky: Velcro patches are thicker than other types of patches, which can make them feel bulky on some items.
• May Lose Grip Over Time: After many uses, the Velcro hooks can wear out, making the patch less secure.

Best For:

Velcro backing is commonly used for military uniforms, law enforcement gear, and other items where patches need to be changed frequently.

4. Peel-and-Stick (Adhesive) Backing

Peel-and-stick backing works like a sticker. The patch has a layer of adhesive on the back that sticks to the fabric. All you have to do is peel off the protective paper and stick the patch in place. It’s a quick and easy option for temporary patches or for items that won’t be washed often.

Pros:

• Super Easy to Apply: No sewing or ironing required—just peel and stick.
• Great for Temporary Use: Peel-and-stick backing is perfect for events, costumes, or other short-term uses.

Cons:

• Not Durable: The adhesive will wear out over time, especially if the patch is washed or exposed to moisture.
• Limited to Temporary Use: If you need a patch to last, this isn’t the best option.

Best For:

Peel-and-stick backing is great for temporary use, such as for one-time events or promotional items. It’s also ideal for quick costume changes or decorations that don’t need to last long.

5. Magnetic Backing

Magnetic backing allows you to attach a patch using magnets instead of sewing, ironing, or glue. The patch has small magnets embedded in the back, and another magnet is placed behind the fabric. This holds the patch in place without damaging the fabric.

Pros:

• Removable and Reusable: Magnetic patches can be taken off and reused without damaging the fabric.
• No Damage to Fabric: Since there’s no glue or sewing involved, the fabric remains intact.

Cons:

• Limited to Thin Fabrics or Metal Surfaces: Magnetic patches work best on thinner fabrics or metal surfaces. They may not hold up well on thicker fabrics like jackets or jeans.
• Not for Heavy Use: Magnetic patches are more decorative and are not meant for heavy use or frequent washing.

Best For:

Magnetic patches are ideal for temporary or decorative uses, such as on metal surfaces like lockers, fridges, or cars. They’re also great for lightweight fabrics or items you want to keep damage-free.

6. Plastic Backing

Plastic backing is used to give patches extra stiffness and structure. While this type of backing doesn’t help the patch stick to anything, it helps the patch maintain its shape over time. Plastic backing is often used in combination with sew-on or Velcro backings.

Pros:

• Adds Structure: Plastic backing keeps patches flat and stiff, which is especially useful for large or detailed patches.
• Durable: It adds durability and prevents the patch from becoming floppy or wrinkled.

Cons:

• Needs Another Attachment Method: Plastic backing doesn’t attach the patch to the fabric by itself. You’ll still need to sew or use Velcro to attach the patch.

Best For:

Plastic backing is ideal for patches that need to maintain their shape, such as large patches or patches with intricate designs.

7. Heat-Seal Backing

Heat-seal backing is a stronger, more durable version of iron-on backing. Instead of using a household iron, heat-seal patches require a heat press machine to bond the patch to the fabric. This type of backing is commonly used in industrial or commercial settings where patches need to be securely attached.

Pros:

• Strong Bond: Heat-seal patches stay on through frequent washing and heavy use.
• Professional Finish: A heat press gives the patch a clean, professional appearance.

Cons:

• Requires Special Equipment: You need a heat press machine to apply heat-seal patches, which most people don’t have at home.

Best For:

Heat-seal patches are perfect for professional use, such as in uniforms or heavy-duty workwear that will be washed and worn frequently.

8. Button Loop Backing

Button loop backing is a unique way to attach a patch without sewing, ironing, or adhesive. A small loop is sewn into the top of the patch, and you can attach the patch by slipping the loop over a button on your clothing. This type of backing is commonly used on uniforms that have buttons, allowing for quick and easy patch changes.

Pros:

• No Tools Required: No need to sew or iron—just slip the loop over a button.
• Quick to Attach and Remove: Button loop patches can be attached and removed quickly, making them great for uniforms.

Cons:

• Limited Use: Button loop patches only work on items with buttons, so they can’t be used on all clothing or fabrics.

Best For:

Button loop backing is perfect for uniforms or work shirts that have buttons. It allows for easy patch changes without any sewing or adhesive.