DIY PATCH IDEA β’ REMOVABLE STYLE
Turn a Pearl Patch into a Brooch.
Want the sparkle without permanently attaching the patch? A flat-back brooch pin can turn a pearl, rhinestone or other structured patch into a removable accessory for suitable bags, jackets and fabric pieces.
WHY MAKE IT REMOVABLE?
Perfect when sewing or ironing isn't the plan.
Brooch-style patches are useful when you want to move a design between items, avoid applying heat, or simply change the look whenever you fancy.
Move it around
Transfer the patch between suitable jackets, bags or accessories.
No heat needed
Useful when you'd rather not iron the item underneath.
Great for statement patches
Pearl, rhinestone and other structured designs make lovely brooch pieces.
WHAT YOU'LL NEED
Four simple things.
Pearl, rhinestone or another patch with enough backing area to support the pin.
Choose a size appropriate for the width and weight of the patch.
It must be suitable for both the patch backing material and metal.
A toothpick or similar tool helps keep the glue where you want it.
PATCH β BROOCH
How to make it.
Turn the patch over
Place the patch face-down on a clean, protected work surface.
Plan the pin position
Centre the brooch fitting and check that the patch will hang straight once worn.
Apply the adhesive
Add a controlled amount of adhesive to the flat metal backing or designated contact area.
Press into place
Position the brooch back carefully and press it firmly against the patch backing.
Leave it alone
Allow the adhesive to dry and fully cure for the time specified by its manufacturer.
Test before wearing
Once fully cured, gently check the fitting is secure before attaching it to anything valuable.
GET THE BALANCE RIGHT
Where you place the pin matters.
If the fitting sits too low, the patch can tip forwards. Too close to one side and it may hang crooked.
For most designs, position the fitting horizontally across the upper half of the patch and test the balance before you add any adhesive.
Very wide or heavier patches may benefit from two smaller fittings rather than one central pin.
WHAT PATCHES WORK WELL?
Think structure, sparkle and enough backing space.
Pearl Patches
Perfect when you want an embellished, jewellery-like finish.
Rhinestone Patches
A fun way to turn sparkling patches into removable accessories.
Structured Decorative Patches
Other designs can work too if the back is broad and stable enough for the brooch fitting.
LOOK AFTER IT
Remove the brooch before washing.
Once you've turned the patch into a removable accessory, treat it like one.
WANT A MORE PERMANENT OPTION?
There are plenty of ways to attach a patch.
Brooch pins are brilliant when you specifically want something removable. For permanent clothing, bags or uniforms, iron-on, sew-on or another backing may make more sense.
The Patch Academy explains the different options and when to use them.
Patch Backings ExplainedIT ATTACH? SEW β’ IRON β’ HOOK & LOOP β’ MORE
FIND A PATCH TO CONVERT
Start with something sparkly.
Browse the ready-made collection and look for a design with enough backing area to support your brooch fitting.
PATCH IT β’ PIN IT β’ MOVE IT
One patch. Lots of outfits.
Turn your favourite statement patch into something removable and wear it wherever the mood takes you.