I’ve always loved collecting stickers, but recently I’ve started collecting patches, too.
While you can sometimes get stickers for free, patches aren't free, and they’re harder to come by since there’s less variety and quantity compared to stickers. Even so, I’ve been collecting them little by little (sometimes even ripping them off old clothes I've bought), and I’ve managed to gather a decent amount.
Patches do serve their original purpose of covering holes in torn clothing, but I think they’re far more often used to customize your personal belongings.
Whether it’s to help identify your items, show off your favorite bands, or just express what you love, there are many reasons to customize with patches. For me, it’s because it makes me feel more attached to my things.
Just as things develop a "patina" through use, it’s fun to nurture something uniquely yours through patch customization. There’s a similar joy in adding new stickers to a collection, and I feel like the number of patches you add is a measure of how much you love that item.
So, today I’m going to use my collection of patches—without holding back (?)—to do some customizing!
How to install patches?
In this post, I’ll show you how to apply iron-on patches, which are relatively easy to get and simple to install.
It’s an easy process once you get the hang of it, and it’s the standard method for most commercially available patches, so please use this as a reference!
MEMO
In Japan, there are various terms like "patch," "wappen," and "applique." While "patch" is English, "wappen" is German, and "applique" is French, and they may have slight differences in nuance or imagery, there is no strict distinction in how they are used. In this article, I will use the term "patch" consistently.
What you'll need
- Patches
The iron-on type has a smooth, translucent layer of adhesive on the back. This adhesive melts with the heat of the iron to bond the patch. - Clothing or bags to customize
If there's dirt on the item, the patch might not bond properly, so make sure to wipe it down or wash it to ensure it's clean. Also, double-check the heat resistance of the fabric and whether it has any special surface finishes. - Iron
One with adjustable temperature settings. Most standard home irons have this feature. Turn the steam function OFF—or use an iron without steam altogether. Steamer wands used for removing wrinkles cannot be used to press on patches. - Ironing board / Oven mitt
You won't be able to attach a patch properly if you can't press down firmly with an iron. An ironing board is essential for this. A kitchen mitt is handy if you’re applying patches to bags or small items that can’t be pressed on a flat surface. - Pressing cloth
Depending on the patch or the fabric, applying an iron directly can cause shine or discoloration. To prevent this, use a pressing cloth. You can buy one specifically for ironing, but a 100% cotton bandana, a hand towel, or even parchment paper from your kitchen will work just fine. Ones that are sheer are even easier to work with. - Masking tape
Used to temporarily hold the patch in place. You don’t strictly need it, but it’s very convenient!
Suitable fabrics for iron-on patches
Actually, you can't apply patches to just anything. Depending on the heat resistance or the surface finish of the fabric you're attaching them to, the patch might not stick at all.
Natural fibers like cotton, linen, and wool have relatively high heat resistance, so they rarely get damaged by iron-on patches. However, some synthetic fibers have low heat resistance and can melt or discolor under the iron's heat.
Also, even if the fabric itself is heat-resistant, it might have surface treatments like a water-repellent finish that can’t withstand the heat or prevents the adhesive from bonding properly.
The easiest way to tell if a patch can be applied is by checking the ironing instruction icon shown above. You can find these on the care labels inside the left side or collar of your clothes.
This icon indicates the maximum temperature for ironing. Since you need about 120℃ to 140℃ to attach an iron-on patch, you can apply them to garments that have an iron icon with two or three dots inside.
For bags or items without care labels, try testing the iron on an inconspicuous area to see if the fabric changes. Don't forget to use a pressing cloth!
Ready to go! Let's attach your patches!
The preparation and explanation took a while, but now we’re ready to iron them on!
First, place your patches to decide where you want them.
If you’re applying several, it’s best to arrange them all first to see the overall balance.
Use masking tape to temporarily hold them in place while you check the layout.
Also, I don't really recommend overlapping patches or placing them over seams or creases.
They might stick temporarily, but they tend to peel off at the overlap or lift at the creases, eventually leading to them falling off. (Sew-on patches are an exception to this rule.)
Once you’ve decided on the placement, cover them with the pressing cloth, and you're ready to start!
Set your iron to 120℃–140℃ (or "medium" heat). Place it on top of the patch, making sure it doesn't shift, and press down firmly.
After holding for about 10 seconds, check to see if the patch is firmly attached. If any edges are lifting, press it down with the iron again.
Even if the patch seems stuck, it’s susceptible to peeling while still warm, so be sure to leave it alone until it cools completely. Think of it as waiting for the adhesive to set.
Once it’s cool, you’re done! If you’re attaching several, it’s a bit of a process, but it’s better to do them one by one for a clean finish!
Patch customization is easy!
The explanation ended up being a little long, but the process itself is simple, right?
I applied several at once this time, but just one patch as an accent is great too! If you have some patches sleeping in a drawer, definitely give this a try!