PATCH QUESTIONS • ANSWERED
Got a patch question? We've probably heard it before. 😆
Custom patches, delivery, artwork, backing types, returns, iron-on problems, washing advice and the occasional gloriously random patch dilemma.
🧵 Custom patch help
🔥 Application advice
📦 Delivery & returns
SKIP THE SEARCHING
Where are you trying to get to?
If you already know what you need, these are the quickest routes.
✨
Custom Patches
Start a project or send us your artwork.
🔥
Iron-On Help
Heat settings, application and troubleshooting.
🚚
Delivery
UK, international, dispatch and collection.
↩️
Returns
Eligibility, refunds and starting a return.
🛠️
Faulty Item
Tell us what’s gone wrong.
💬
Ask A Human
Still stuck? Talk directly to our team.
PICK A TOPIC
The big patch question library.
CUSTOM PATCHES
Starting something custom?
How do I order custom patches?
Start on our Custom Patches page
and send us your artwork, logo, sketch or idea. We’ll review it and
recommend the best construction, size and backing for the design.
Do I need finished professional artwork?
No. Finished artwork is useful, but we can also work from rough
sketches, logos, reference images, AI-generated artwork or a clear
description of what you’re trying to create.
What’s the minimum order for custom patches?
Minimum quantities depend on the type of patch and project.
Tell us what you need and we’ll advise the most practical option.
Can you make unusual shapes or detailed designs?
Yes. Custom shapes, detailed artwork and unusual ideas are exactly
the sort of projects we review individually. If one construction
method won’t reproduce the detail well, we’ll recommend another.
ARTWORK & SAMPLING
What happens before production?
Can I see my patch before the full order is made?
Yes. Our custom process includes a pre-production sample and
approval stage so you can review how the design has translated
before the full quantity is produced.
Can I request changes after seeing the sample?
Yes. If wording, colour, layout, border, stitch direction or other
details need adjusting, we can review changes before full production.
Can you work from AI-generated artwork?
Yes. We’ll review the detail, scale and intended finish and may
recommend embroidery, weaving, printing or a combination depending
on what will reproduce the artwork best.
PATCH TYPES & BACKINGS
Which patch should I choose?
What’s the difference between embroidered and woven patches?
Embroidered patches have a raised stitched texture and work well
for bold artwork. Woven patches create finer detail and smaller
lettering. Read our
embroidered vs woven guide
for the full comparison.
What backing options are available?
Depending on the patch, options can include sew-on, iron-on,
self-adhesive and hook-and-loop backing. See our
Patch Backings guide.
Which backing is best for repeated washing?
Sew-on is generally the strongest choice for clothing that will be
washed frequently. Heat-applied backings are convenient, but repeated
hot washing and tumble drying can reduce adhesive performance over time.
THE QUESTION WE LOVE MOST
“Can you make this?”
Send it over.
Weird shape, tiny lettering, strange material, AI artwork or an idea you can’t quite explain? We’d rather look at the actual project than guess.
APPLICATION & CARE
Putting the patch on properly.
Why isn’t my iron-on patch sticking?
Make sure steam is off, the garment is dry, and the heat is suitable
for the fabric. If the adhesive on the back still looks shiny, more
heat or pressure may be needed. If the adhesive has been overheated
and damaged, sewing or fabric adhesive may be the remaining options.
See our
How to Iron On Patches guide.
Can I iron directly onto rhinestones or pearls?
No. Decorative patches containing rhinestones, pearls, gems or similar
embellishments should generally be heated from the reverse to avoid
damaging the front.
Can iron-on patches be washed?
Yes, but cooler and gentler washing helps prolong the adhesive bond.
For frequently washed garments, a few stitches around the edge can
add extra security.
What if my fabric can’t handle heat?
Sewing is usually the safest option for heat-sensitive materials.
Check the garment care label first and use our
application guide
if you’re unsure.
ORDERS & DELIVERY
Where is my patch going?
Where are orders dispatched from?
Orders are handled from our studio in Cirencester, Gloucestershire,
in the UK.
What UK delivery options do you offer?
We offer several UK delivery speeds plus local collection.
Current prices and times are listed on our
Delivery Options page.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes. International options vary by destination.
Visit our
Delivery Options page
for current details.
Can I collect my order from your studio?
Yes. Local collection from our Cirencester studio is available by
arrangement. Contact us first so we can make sure your order is ready.
RETURNS & PROBLEMS
Something not quite right?
How do I start a return?
Eligible returns can be started through your customer account at
myaccount.patchesrus.co.uk.
You can also read the full
Returns & Refunds page.
Can I return a custom or personalised item?
Custom-made and clearly personalised items are normally excluded
from change-of-mind returns. If there is a fault, damage or production
error, contact us and we’ll help resolve it.
What should I do if my item is faulty or damaged?
Don’t send it back immediately. Visit our
Faulty or Damaged Item help page
and send us your order details and photographs where helpful.
WANT THE DEEP-DIVE VERSION?
Head to the Patch Academy.
Proper guides on patch types, backings, application, sizing, care, sampling and more.
QUESTION STILL HIDING?
Ask us directly.
If your question isn’t here, send us a message. There’s a very good chance we’ve dealt with something similar before.
Patch questions answered from Cirencester 🇬🇧