How to Make Patches on Embroidery Machine

Creating patches with an embroidery machine is a rewarding craft that merges precision technology with artistic flair. Whether for personal use, business branding, or as thoughtful gifts, embroidered patches are versatile, durable, and customizable to any design. In this guide, we will explore how to make patches on embroidery machine, from selecting materials to finishing touches. You’ll learn about the essential supplies, including stabilizers, fabric, and thread, and how to set up your embroidery machine for patch-making.

We’ll guide you through designing your patch, whether you’re using pre-made patterns or creating your own digital designs, and the steps to embroider your design onto the fabric. Additionally, we’ll cover techniques for cutting out the patches cleanly and methods for applying backing, such as iron-on adhesive or sew-on options. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced embroiderer, making patches with an embroidery machine opens up a world of creative possibilities and practical applications. Dive into this intricate yet accessible craft and produce professional-quality patches that showcase your unique style and skills.

What are Embroidered Patches?

Embroidered patches are pieces of fabric that have been decorated with embroidered designs, often featuring logos, symbols, or various artwork. These patches are created by stitching thread onto a fabric backing, producing a textured and durable embellishment.

Embroidered patches can be made using a variety of thread colors, allowing for vibrant and intricate designs. They are commonly used for personalizing clothing, uniforms, bags, hats, and many other items. Their popularity spans numerous industries, from fashion and sports to military and corporate branding. By adding a unique touch to any garment or accessory, embroidered patches not only serve as a form of self-expression but also as a means of identity and affiliation.

10 Methods How to Make Patches on Embroidery Machine

Method 1: Using Pre-Made Patch Fabric

One of the simplest ways to make patches with an embroidery machine is to start with pre-made patch fabric. These fabrics are often stabilized and have a smooth surface ideal for embroidery. Begin by selecting your design and ensuring it fits within the desired patch size.

Hoop the pre-made patch fabric with appropriate stabilizer. Once hooped, load your design into the embroidery machine and start stitching. After the embroidery is complete, use a pair of sharp scissors or a rotary cutter to trim the patch to your desired shape. This method is efficient and produces professional-looking patches with minimal effort.

Method 2: Creating Patches with Water-Soluble Stabilizer

Water-soluble stabilizer is an excellent option for creating patches with clean, finished edges. Begin by hooping a piece of water-soluble stabilizer. Load your patch design into the embroidery machine, ensuring it includes a border or outline for cutting.

Embroider the design directly onto the stabilizer. Once the embroidery is complete, carefully cut around the patch, leaving a small border. Rinse the patch under warm water to dissolve the stabilizer, leaving behind only the embroidered patch. This method provides a crisp, clean edge and eliminates any stabilizer residue.

Method 3: Using Felt as Patch Base

Felt is a popular choice for patch bases due to its durability and ease of use. Start by selecting a piece of felt in your desired color and hoop it with a suitable stabilizer. Load your patch design into the embroidery machine and begin stitching. Felt doesn’t fray, making it ideal for patches with intricate edges. Once the embroidery is complete, cut around the design to create your patch. For added durability, you can stitch an overlock or zigzag stitch around the edges. This method is perfect for creating robust, long-lasting patches.

Method 4: Creating Appliqué Patches

Appliqué patches involve stitching fabric pieces onto a base fabric to form a design. Begin by selecting your base fabric and appliqué pieces. Hoop the base fabric with stabilizer and start the embroidery machine to stitch the placement line for the appliqué pieces. Place the appliqué fabric over the placement line and let the machine stitch it down. Trim any excess fabric close to the stitch line and continue with the embroidery. Once complete, cut around the patch, ensuring a clean edge. This method allows for creative use of different fabrics and textures in your patches.

Method 5: Using Heat-Seal Backing

Heat-seal backing adds a professional finish to patches and allows them to be ironed onto garments. Start by creating your patch using any of the methods mentioned above. After cutting out the patch, place it face down on a piece of heat-seal backing. Use an iron to press the backing onto the patch, following the manufacturer’s instructions. This method ensures your patches are easy to apply and adhere securely to various fabrics, making them suitable for both personal use and commercial purposes.

Method 6: Crafting Patches with Edge Finishing

Edge finishing is essential for creating durable and professional-looking patches. After embroidering your design onto the chosen fabric and cutting out the patch, finish the edges using a serger or a zigzag stitch on your embroidery machine. Hoop the patch and select a dense zigzag or satin stitch to encase the raw edges. This method not only prevents fraying but also adds a polished look to your patches, making them suitable for heavy-duty applications.

Method 7: Incorporating Embroidery Fonts

Personalized patches often include text, which can be easily added using embroidery fonts. Choose a base fabric and hoop it with stabilizer. Select an embroidery font and type your desired text in the embroidery machine software. Position the text within the design and start stitching. Once the text is embroidered, complete any additional design elements and cut out the patch. This method is perfect for creating name tags, team patches, or custom messages, adding a personalized touch to your creations.

Method 8: Making In-the-Hoop Patches

In-the-hoop (ITH) projects are fully completed within the embroidery hoop, including the patch. Begin by hooping a piece of fabric and stabilizer. Load an ITH patch design into your embroidery machine. The machine will first stitch a placement line for the patch. Place a second piece of fabric over the placement line and continue stitching. The machine will stitch the design and a finishing border, securing both fabric layers together. Once complete, remove the hoop and cut out the patch along the border. This method streamlines the patch-making process and ensures all elements are perfectly aligned.

Method 9: Using Double-Sided Adhesive Sheets

Double-sided adhesive sheets provide an easy way to attach patches without sewing. Create your patch using any preferred method, then cut it out. Place one side of the adhesive sheet onto the back of the patch and press firmly. Peel off the backing paper to reveal the adhesive side. This method is ideal for non-permanent applications where you want to reposition or remove the patch without leaving residue. It’s perfect for temporary decorations or prototypes.

Method 10: Crafting Patches with Metallic Threads

Metallic threads add a luxurious touch to embroidered patches, making them stand out. Choose a design that complements the use of metallic threads and hoop your fabric with stabilizer. Load the design into the embroidery machine and select metallic threads for specific elements. Embroider the design, taking care to use a slower stitching speed to prevent thread breakage. Once complete, cut out the patch and finish the edges. This method adds elegance and a high-end look to your patches, suitable for special occasions or upscale branding.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When creating embroidered patches, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the final outcome. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them:

1. Using the Wrong Stabilizer: Selecting the wrong type of stabilizer can cause puckering or distortion. Always use a stabilizer that matches your fabric and design requirements.
2. Incorrect Hooping: Improper hooping can result in misaligned stitches and uneven tension. Ensure your fabric and stabilizer are taut and centered in the hoop.
3. Poor Thread Tension: Incorrect thread tension can lead to uneven stitching or thread breakage. Adjust your machine’s tension settings based on your fabric and thread type.
4. Ignoring Design Density: Overly dense designs may cause fabric damage or thread breakage. Test your design on a scrap piece of fabric to ensure it’s not too dense.
5. Skipping Thread Trimming: Neglecting to trim threads between design segments can make your patch look messy. Trim threads as needed to maintain a clean appearance.
6. Cutting Too Close to Stitches: When cutting out your patch, leave a small margin around the stitches to avoid cutting through them and compromising the integrity.
7. Rushing the Heat-Seal Process: During heat-seal backing application, follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Too much heat or pressure can damage the patch.

Conclusion

Creating patches with an embroidery machine opens up a world of possibilities for personalization and creativity. Each method detailed above offers unique techniques and considerations, from using pre-made patch fabric to incorporating metallic threads. By mastering these methods, you can produce high-quality, custom patches that meet various needs and preferences. Whether you’re making patches for personal use, gifts, or commercial purposes, these techniques provide a comprehensive guide to achieving professional results. Thanks for reading, and we hope this has given you some inspiration on how to make patches on embroidery machine!