Applying an iron-on patch

BEFORE YOU START: Make sure your garment can withstand heat of 400°F. Some fabrics, including nylon, satin, and polyester may not be able to withstand the heat and will melt or burn. If you are not sure, we recommend sewing your patch on.

Steps to Iron-On a Patch

1. Set the iron on it’s hottest setting and wait for it to warm up. Turn off the steam option. You don’t want to steam on your patch--dry heat is best.
2. Think about design and placement. Lay out your jacket, vest, or backpack and decide where exactly you want the patch to be placed.
   Tip: If you're planning on ironing on more patches plan ahead to make sure there will be room for additional patches. Once the patch is in place, it is there for good.
3. Lay the base item on a flat, heat-resistant surface. An ironing board is useful, but if you don't have one, you may also lay your item across a doubled-up bath towel on a sturdy table.
4. Place the patch in the position you chose. The plastic side should be flat against the base fabric. Make sure the patch isn't crooked.
5. Place a thin towel over the patch, taking care not to disturb its position. The towel will protect the patch and the surrounding fabric.
6. Position the heated iron over the patch and press down, applying as much pressure as you can. Hold the iron there for about 15 seconds. After the 15 seconds is done, move the tip of the hot iron around the edges of the patch as best as you can.
7. Turn the material over and place a thin towel over the back of the area where the patch is located.
8. Like the front side, position the heated iron over the patch and press down firmly for at least 15 seconds. Again, move the tip of the hot iron around the edges of the patch as best as you can.
9. Remove the iron and allow the patch to cool. After it is cool, check to see whether the patch is fixed on securely by gently rubbing at the edge with a finger, trying to lift it. If it lifts up a bit, replace the towel and press it with the iron again for 10 seconds.
10. If you are unsure if your patch has been applied correctly, or are looking for extra assurance it will stick around forever, we recommend adding some stitches around the outside of your patch. See below for details.

Sewing on a patch

If your fabric cannot withstand the heat required to iron on your patch, you're looking for extra assurance that your patch will be applied securely, or if you want to be able to remove your patch in the future, you may choose to sew it on instead of, or in addition to, heat application. For that, we recommend following this lovely video produced by the London Embroidery School (not affiliated; they just produce good videos):