Patch design is a tricky thing, after all, it is an art! A common misunderstanding about design with regard to patches is that embroidery has certain limitations. There is only so much that fits tastefully onto a patch, depending on the size of it.
A phrase we like to use with regard to patch design is:
“Imagine drawing your logo with a crayon. That is the level of detail we can achieve.”
This means that the larger the patch, the greater the detail we can achieve. If your logo is highly intricate, we would recommend you get a larger patch.
This patch has a highly detailed design, but the size of the patch allows for the elements to be easily seen.
While traditional embroidered patches have a signature look and can translate many art styles, we do recommend woven patches for ultra-detailed designs that absolutely must be placed on a small patch.
Determining whether or not to fully embroider or partially embroider your patch is another huge element to patch design. Don’t know what that means? Let’s break it down.
Fully Embroidered vs. Partially Embroidered
This raccoon scout patch is 100% embroidered.
Patches are created by weaving a design onto backing fabric – like twill or felt. To qualify as a fully embroidered patch it must be completely covered in fill stitching, with no exposed backing.
Another example of a 100% embroidered patch. Notice the pattern.
This means a completed patch requires a lot of thread and the look of the patch will be less 3-Dimensional.
A partially embroidered patch! The logo in the middle and the merrowed edge are embroidered but the red background is not.
Partially embroidered patches utilize the backing fabric as a part of the design. The backing forms the background of the design or logo and acts as the border as well. This means that the patch has a design raised from the backing, making it stand out a bit more.
Both styles of patches are great and have their particular uses. Partially embroidered patches look great as workwear patches, as those often contain text. The text is a bit easier to read when raised from the backing. Fully embroidered patches often contain less text and rely more heavily on the art of the design.
So, when ordering your patches, remember size matters and so does embroidery percentage! Get started at our site.
