Custom Embroidered Patches UK (Types, Backings, Prices)

Custom embroidered patches are fabric badges stitched with your design, which you then attach to jackets, bags, uniforms and kit. In the UK you can order them from large factories (often with bigger minimums) or from small makers who will do a handful, or even a single patch. Choose your patch type, backing and border first, and the rest falls into place.

Types of custom patch

• Embroidered patches: the classic. Thread is stitched onto a fabric base, giving a raised, textured finish. Best for bold shapes and lettering.
• Woven patches: made like a tiny piece of fabric, so they can show finer detail and smaller text than embroidery. They tend to feel flatter and thinner.
• Printed or sublimated patches: the design is printed onto the fabric, so photos and gradients are possible. A good option for detailed artwork. See our sublimation guide to learn how that process works.
• Chenille patches: thick, fluffy, looped-yarn patches, often seen on varsity jackets. Usually larger, and made by specialist makers.

If your artwork has lots of colours and fine detail, ask your maker which type will reproduce it best.

Backings: iron-on, sew-on, hook and loop and adhesive

• Iron-on: a heat-activated glue layer on the back. Quick and tidy. Custom embroidery patches iron on are popular for casual use, but the bond can weaken over time and with hot washes, and some fabrics (such as stretchy, waterproof or heat-sensitive ones) are not suitable.
• Sew-on: a plain fabric back you stitch in place. The most durable and the safest option for jackets and uniforms.
• Hook and loop (velcro-style): one side stitched to the patch, the other to the garment or bag. Ideal if you want to swap patches or remove them before washing.
• Adhesive (peel and stick): convenient for temporary use, but not suited to washing.

For anything you wash often, sewing is the most dependable choice, even if you also use an iron-on backing to hold it in place while you sew.

Borders: merrowed edge or hot-cut

A merrowed edge is a thick, rolled thread border sewn around the patch. It is the traditional look and suits round, oval and simple shapes.

A hot-cut edge is cut with heat to seal the fabric. It gives a flatter, cleaner finish and suits more complex outlines. Your maker can advise which fits your shape.

Size and stitch coverage

Common patch sizes run from around 4 cm up to 10 cm or more. Very small patches limit how much detail you can stitch, because thread has thickness. Bold shapes, thick lettering and a small number of colours give the cleanest result.

Coverage matters too. A patch with a lot of solid stitching feels thicker and uses more thread, while a design that shows the base fabric looks lighter. Name patches work well when lettering is chunky and short.

Small batches or large factory orders

Overseas and large factory suppliers often set minimums of 50 or 100 patches, with lower prices per patch at volume. Smaller UK makers frequently offer custom patches with no minimum, which suits clubs, one-off gifts, tests of a new design and personal projects. You will usually pay more per patch for a tiny run, but avoid ending up with a box you do not need.

What affects the price

Makers set their own prices, but these usually drive the cost:

• Size: larger patches use more thread and fabric.
• Stitch count and colours: denser designs and more colour changes take longer.
• Backing and border: hook and loop, or special borders, can add to the price.
• Quantity: the price per patch usually drops as the quantity rises.
• Digitising and setup: a one-off fee for turning your artwork into a stitch file, often somewhere around £15 to £50 for a simple design.
• Turnaround time.

As a very rough guide, a single patch or a run of just a few can cost noticeably more per patch once setup is included, while runs of a few dozen often work out at a few pounds each, falling as the quantity increases. Always request a written quote.

Attaching your patch

1. Sew-on: use a small, neat stitch such as a whip stitch or running stitch around the edge, with thread that matches the border.
2. Iron-on: follow your maker's instructions, use a pressing cloth, and apply even pressure for the stated time. Stitching around the edge afterwards adds durability.
3. Hook and loop: sew the soft side to the garment, then press the patch on.

Check the care label on your garment first, as heat can damage some fabrics.

Where people use patches

Clubs and societies, sports teams, scout-style groups, work uniforms, jackets, rucksacks, event badges and gifts. Ask for a mock-up first so you can check spelling and colours.

If your design uses a brand logo, football club crest or cartoon character that belongs to someone else, the maker needs permission to reproduce it, so ask for an original design or use your own artwork.

Questions people ask

Can I get custom patches with no minimum order?

Yes, many small makers offer custom patches with no minimum. You can often order one or a few, though the price per patch is higher than in bulk.

Are iron-on patches permanent?

They can last a good while on suitable fabrics, but heat and frequent washing may loosen the glue. Sewing around the edge is the most durable method.

What file do I need to send?

A clear, high-quality image or vector file of your design, plus the size you want and the colours you prefer. Your maker will digitise it and send a proof.

Can a patch include a photo?

A printed or sublimated patch can handle photographic detail. Embroidered patches suit simpler, bolder artwork.

Ready to order? Post a free request with your design and the quantity you need, or browse machine embroidery makers and message one directly. For a wider overview, see our custom embroidery guide and our tips on how to brief a maker.