Custom Patch Styles: Every Type of Patch Explained

If you’re wondering what types of patches are actually out there, the short answer is that there are more than a dozen common patch types, sometimes just called patch types, and each one comes down to different materials and manufacturing methods. Some are stitched, some are pressed, some even glow in the dark. With so many custom patch styles on the market, picking the right one for your team, brand, or jacket really just comes down to matching the material to the job.

Embroidered patches, sometimes just called embroidery patches, are the classic. Thread is stitched into a fabric backing to create raised, textured designs. Hand embroidered patches give you that old school, detailed look, and 3D embroidered patches (also known as 3D embroidered transfers) add extra puff for a bolder finish. Bullion patches take embroidery upscale, using metallic thread for a dressier look you will see on blazers more than backpacks. Custom embroidered name patches and simple name patches fall in this family too, and they are still one of our most requested items at The Monterey Company.

Woven patches use a tighter thread weave than standard embroidery, so they can capture small text and fine lines that embroidery sometimes struggles with. Chenille patches go the opposite direction. They use a soft, fuzzy yarn to build big, bold letters, the kind you probably remember from varsity jackets and letterman jackets.

Custom PVC patches, sometimes called rubber patches, are made from polyvinyl chloride, a soft and bendy plastic that shrugs off rain, mud, and rough use. Manufacturers use laser-etched detailing and embossed patches techniques to create raised, 3D looking designs with sharp edges. If patch durability matters most, like on tactical gear or outdoor equipment, PVC is usually the answer.

Printed patches, also called sublimated patches, use a dye-sublimation process that presses ink directly into the fabric instead of stitching it on. This printed, or sublimation, method is the best route for gradients, photos, and detailed logos that embroidery just cannot recreate.

Leather patches bring a rugged, worn-in feel that works great on hats. Genuine leather and PU leather patches, made from polyurethane, both give you that same rustic style, just at different price points.

Sequin and Glitter Patches

Sequin patches use tiny flip sequins for a shimmery, interactive effect kids and fashion brands both love. Glitter versions add sparkle without the flipping action.

Silicone Patches

Silicone patches are soft, flexible, and give a smooth, printed look. They hold color well and resist fading outdoors.

Glow-in-the-Dark Patches

Glow-in-the-dark patches use a special ink that charges in light and glows at night, a fun option for safety gear or novelty designs.

Flex Patches

Matte black flex patches, matte white flex patches, and chrome flex patches use a thin, flexible film instead of thread or rubber, giving you a sleek, modern look on caps and jackets.

Iron-on patches, sometimes called heat transfer patches, use a heat-activated adhesive on the back. Press it with heat and it bonds to the fabric. No needle required.

Velcro patches, also called hook-and-loop patches, are removable and swappable, which is why they are so common on military patches and tactical patches where gear changes often.

Sew-on patches are the most permanent option. Adhesive patches and peel-and-stick patches work for short-term use, and magnetic backing lets you attach a patch without any holes or glue at all, which is handy on leather or delicate fabric.

For garments, use a heat press set between 300 and 350 degrees Fahrenheit, press for 10 to 15 seconds with firm pressure, then let it cool before you move the fabric.

Hats need a curved heat press or a cap attachment, since flat presses cannot mold to the curve of the brim without wrinkling the patch.

No heat press at home? A household iron on the cotton setting, no steam, held firmly for 30 to 45 seconds, will usually get the job done on garments.