Different Types of Backings for Patches

Knowing about different types of backings that could go on your custom patches may be more important than you think before getting them. Read on to learn more.

Off-the-rack patches and custom patches all have two essential things in common; the design and the choice of a backing. Off the rack patch backings are not very different from custom patch backings. They are pretty much the same.

However, it is possible to tweak some backings on request for custom backings that could be stated for specific purposes. All the way from Biker Patches to Military badges that are in the form of patches, each and every backing serves a specific purpose. The durability, feel, material and long-lastingness of these backings are hence made according to their purpose.

Let's dive more into what you should know about patch backings. Also, their significance in making the patch last a long time for the purpose it has to serve.

There are several types of backings that are available in the market for your patches. The factor that this variety of patch backings depends on is often durability. It is determined by how the patch top is being sealed and secured by the backing.

However, more than the securing, the backing’s main purpose is to additionally and mainly determine how the patch will be attached to the item of choice.

There are two major impacts that could come with the different types of backings being used for patches. The first impact would be the comfort of the patch being attached to apparel. Sometimes, like in military uniforms or other uniforms, patches are attached to the chest. Thus, using the wrong backing for this type of patch will make you uncomfortable.

Second is its longevity. If the wrong choice in terms of Patch backing attachment is used, the patch may fall off sooner than expected, or even unsuspectingly. In this case, the wearer would be at a loss.

There are several types of custom patches backings to choose from. Let’s discuss the 5 most common backings in-detail.

Plastic backing is a relatively common type that almost every ordinary retailer has. These patches are usually the ones you find at souvenir shops or gift shops. They do not serve a specific or significant purpose, mostly aside from decor.

The creators know that most of these being bought are probably never even going to be worn. Whether these patches are embroidered, woven, or dye sublimated, the backings are usually plastic. The plastic backing gives the patch rigidity and stiffness but not hardness.

While it helps the patch keep its shape without weathering or wearing out over the years. It is not too hard to cause discomfort if you attach it to apparel.

Plastic backings can be used on everyday wear patches, too. However, these are advised to be attached more securely. They are thin enough to allow the you to sew the patch onto fabric.

Heat Seal backings are more of an industrial attachment process rather than a home one. The backing of the patch and the item that it is being attached to will form a bond in between once the heat is applied to overtop the patch. However, it should not be confused with the iron-on patches.

Iron on patches use a similar logic in the attachment process but can be done at home with a clothes iron. Heat seal backings on the other hand, need the proper amount of pressure, temperature and other conditions in order to seal correctly.

Velcro Backing is not so new a backing for patches. However, its popularity among patch enthusiasts and retailers has gone up and down in waves over the years. Velcro backing that is done with high quality and sealing may often include a hook and loop design.

Velcro backings are made with an additional hook-and-sew seam that adds to your patch. A soft side is then ready that serves as a seamless line to sew to apparel or other items.

Velcro patches are a great choice if you need to change new patches frequently and swap them on a regular basis. It even helps to make minor adjustments. Velcro patch backings are more used for military and police uniforms.

It is one of the oldest and quickest ways to go about patch attachment. It is hassle-free, simple, fast, foolproof and durable way to attach patches. Iron on patches java backings are coated with a chemical that is heat activated. It turns into an adhesive upon receiving heat and strongly attaches to any fabric it is ironed on.

These patches last years without fail and are very popular with patch enthusiasts, even children. An average home iron with a temperature of 302oF is standard and should be used.

However, despite this patch backing’s longevity. You only receive temporary adhesive fastness as compared to many of the newer backings in the market, especially compared to the heat seal backing.

Tap/Adhesive Backing for patches has to easily be the most popular kind of patch backing. It is ironic because it is the least durable type and can easily be removed purposely too.

However, on the upside, they are versatile. The decreased permanence allows for the user to switch things up every once in a while. They do not have to commit to one patch on their items for the rest of their lives. They can change the patches as frequently as they like, unlike other patches.

The material of the patch itself and how the design is being implemented into the patch is also a major factor in determining and choosing a patch backing.

The different types of custom patches are usually embroidered, printed, and dye-sublimated, among many others. Usually, our team at ThePatchio when gets in touch with you, we inform you of the kinds of backings that are the best choice for your custom patch type.

Conclusively, given the wide option to choose from, you do not have to feel overwhelmed. We are more than happy to help you educate on why and how these different types of backings are incorporated within the making process of patches. And what purpose each backing serves. So that you can choose and order the best suited one.

Furthermore, content through our blogs will help you make a thought-out and informed decision based on what you are looking for.