Sew On vs Iron On Patches Which is Better?

There are many ways through which you can have your custom patches attached to the clothes. However, what you should know is that not all the methods are same, and as such they don’t hold significant advantage over one another. So, usually what becomes a deciding factor is how you want to style your custom patch. Are you requirements tilted towards having a stiffed but robust appearance? Or do you want your patched to be free from caged restrictions of crusty shell. Because if that so then your options should be around sew-on vs iron-on backing, but the million dollar question is which one should you choose?

Iron On Backing: Easy Way

It is no surprise that Iron On backing for custom patches is considered the easiest way to attach a printed patch to clothes and there are reasons why. First of all it is Iron itself, almost everyone has once in their life used the Iron. It is not a machine which rings the surprise or mystery – it is something which all of us have it in our homes. So, when you are asked to Iron On a patch using an Iron it is not rocket science. You are not expected to have elite Ironing skills.

Secondly, when it comes to Iron On option to back a patch what is another important factor is that the act itself is very easy. Unlike the other options (one of which we will discuss later) you are not supposed to do a lot while ironing a patch. It takes hardly 10 minutes or even less if you had already preheated your Iron before. So, if you are just a beginner who has no clue what they are doing then safest bet will always be Iron On backing. However it should be noted that at times you would have to opt for other option since Iron On backing can damage some types of patch materials (more about it later).

Sew On Backing: Safe Way

As the name suggests the sew on backing for custom patches is the safest way and the reason for that is because it poses no risk to the material of the patch. To understand the case better consider this if your patch falls in the following category then Iron On backing can lead to unfavorable results.

• PVC patch.
• Printed patch.
• Woven patch
• Chenille patch
• Bullion patch
• Leather patch

Since heat from Iron is significantly high and for good reason we need the heat to properly clamp the patch with the cloth, for the patches which are made from the material we have listed that can be harmful. For example as bullion patches are typically made with metallic threads and wire. The heat can damage the metallic elements and the intricate design. Same thing applies on Leather patches, high heat required to activate the adhesive can scorch or warp the leather, and the patch may not adhere properly.

Therefore, when our priority is to keep our patches on safe side it is always suggestable to opt for sew-on backing. You would be pleased to know that we at ZmCustomPatches provides the sew-on option for patch backing. For further details you can contact us.

Does Sew On Backing Requires Skills?

Well, it depends on your needs, if you are someone with enough knowledge on how to hold a needle and a thread and the purpose is on more of casual side then we would say that you can try and hopefully reach somewhere. However, if you have never before stitched something and the quantity of custom patches needed to be sewed on is sustainable then we will recommend you that you should opt for professional help.

How Iron On & Sew On Backing Shapes Patches?

Since Iron On backing relies on heat transfer to complete the patching process whereas Sew On backing is more of a manual approach these two ways can alter the appearance of your patch. Which is why it is important for you to understand the implication that these methods pose. In the case of Iron On backing it gives your patch a stiff look. It won’t fold. It won’t loosen up. It will stay still.

As for Sew On backing this method given it’s free flowing nature allows custom patches to be curved, folded or even just follow the patch of your attire. You can think of Sew On backing as making a patch an internal part of a cloth. No matter what happens it will stick to it. On the other hand Iron On backing gives the custom patch the role of an external part of the cloth. There is little flexibility. Although, your custom patch won’t become victim of stretches and wrinkles – a pro in its own way.

Limit Of Iron On Backing…

To those of you who are wondering: “is there a specific temperature on which we should operate before ironing?” well, lets make it clear for you. While there is no specific guideline, it is generally agreed that your iron should be at least around 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Also if possible you should set the mode to ‘cotton‘ and ensure that you have a protective cloth in between. The later is not necessary but it is a good practice in case of damage or misdirection.

Another question that is quite often asked is regarding the durability of Iron On patches. After all it is not a lie that Iron On patches are indeed prone to lose their place at some point in future.  In which case you should know that while no figure is right, stats show us that you can wash your clothes with patch on them at least 25-30 times before it will come off.

Although, what should be kept in mind is that water you use for washing the clothes plays a huge part. If  you are using hot water which in turns comes with direct contact with your Iron On patch then it is likely that your custom patch can come off much sooner than expected. Which is why it is important to always use cold or mild water to wash your patched on clothes. Always.

Iron On vs Sew On: Ultimate Choice?

In the end which ever option you opt for depends on your needs, skills and what you are expecting. While both methods have their pros and cons if stats have anything to show us, it is that Sew On backing remains the most reliable choice. Even though Iron On patches gives us chance of finishing the job quickly, series of limitations and risk that comes with them can be a huge factor. Especially, if you are working with a large order of custom patches.

In any case, you should know that we at ZmCustomPatches deals with both kind of patching options and if you will work with us, we can ensure to provide you best of both worlds according to your need. Then be it iron on patch or a sew on patch your custom patch will shine the same. Do you want to find out more about our products? Contact us we’re here to help!