PATCHES R US ACADEMY
How to Order Custom Patches
From a rough idea or logo through to proofs, production, testing, warehousing and delivery, we help manage your patch project from start to finish.
FROM IDEA TO DELIVERY
The Custom Patch Process
Every project is different, but most custom orders follow the same simple journey.
Tell Us Your Idea
Send artwork, a logo, sketch or simply explain what you are trying to create.
Quote & Recommendation
We recommend the most suitable construction and provide pricing for your required quantity.
Digital Proof
You receive artwork for approval so details can be checked before production begins.
Approval
We refine anything required and only proceed once the agreed design and specification are approved.
Production
Your patches enter production with the agreed construction, backing, quantity and finish.
Delivery & Fulfilment
We dispatch to you, hold stock, split deliveries or help coordinate more complex release schedules.
GETTING STARTED
You Don’t Need Everything Figured Out
You do not need to understand embroidery percentages, thread limitations or production specifications before contacting us.
Give us as much information as you currently have and we can help fill in the gaps.
Helpful information to send us
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Artwork or idea
A logo, drawing, reference image or even an early concept.
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Approximate size
If you are unsure, tell us where the patch will be used.
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Estimated quantity
An approximate number is enough for initial pricing.
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Intended use
Uniform, merchandise, event activation, jacket, bag or other use.
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Your deadline
Especially important for events, launches and time-sensitive projects.
ARTWORK
Do I Need Finished Vector Artwork?
No. Good artwork certainly helps, but you do not need to arrive with a production-ready file.
We regularly work from logos, PDFs, screenshots, sketches and existing branding. We can assess what you provide and explain whether anything needs simplifying or adjusting for the chosen patch style.
PRICING
What Affects the Price of a Custom Patch?
Custom pricing depends on the project rather than one universal per-patch price.
Size
Larger patches generally use more material and production time.
Quantity
Higher quantities usually reduce the cost per patch.
Patch Type
Embroidered, woven, PVC, chenille and printed constructions differ.
Backing
Iron-on, sew-on and hook & loop options affect specification.
Special Finishes
3D embroidery, specialty threads and complex finishes may affect cost.
Timescale
Rush production may be possible depending on capacity and specification.
MULTIPLE DESIGNS
Ordering Several Designs? Ask About Package Pricing.
Larger projects often involve multiple patch designs in different quantities rather than hundreds of one identical design.
In those cases, speak to us before ordering each design separately. Where the designs form part of one larger programme, we can often build a package price around the combined project rather than treating every patch and quantity as an entirely separate small order.
This is particularly useful for clubs, events, brand activations, multi-location businesses and merchandise programmes with several designs or variations.
PROOFING & TESTING
Check the Details Before the Full Run
Larger, technical or garment-specific programmes may need more than a simple artwork approval.
Digital Proofs
We provide digital artwork showing the intended size, shape, colours and design before production.
Physical Samples
Where appropriate, a physical pre-production sample can help confirm scale, colours, construction and finish.
Application Testing
For suitable projects we can help assess heat-press application, adhesion and practical garment compatibility.
Wear & Wash Guidance
We can discuss application and care requirements where long-term garment performance is an important part of the programme.
LARGE PROJECTS & EVENTS
Need 10,000 Patches? The Logistics Matter Too.
Large orders are not always simply manufactured and delivered in one box on one date.
We can help pre-plan major exhibitions, events, merchandise launches and multi-location programmes where stock needs to move in stages.
Split store deliveries Send different quantities to different locations.
Staged stock release Coordinate stock required at different points in a programme.
Stock holding We can discuss holding finished stock prior to release.
Direct-to-event delivery Where appropriate, stock can be coordinated for delivery directly to an event or exhibition location.
UK FULFILMENT SUPPORT
Dedicated Studio & Warehouse in Cirencester
Our UK operation gives us a practical base for project coordination, samples, stock management and fulfilment planning.
EVENTS & EXHIBITIONS
Planning Patch Merchandise for an Event?
Speak to us early. We can work backwards from the event date, help establish production and approval milestones and discuss how stock needs to arrive.
Patch activations can be particularly effective when visitors can choose designs and have them applied to merchandise during the event. A heat press can turn patches into an engaging on-demand customisation experience.
TIGHT DEADLINE?
Yes, We Can Handle Rush Jobs — But Speak to Us First.
Rush production is sometimes possible depending on patch type, quantity, artwork approval and current production capacity.
The earlier you tell us the actual required delivery date, the more options we have.
AFTER APPROVAL
Production, Quality Checks & Delivery
Approved Specification
Production follows the agreed artwork, dimensions, backing, quantities and finish.
Manufacture
The order is produced according to the agreed construction and project schedule.
Quality Review
Finished patches are checked against the agreed project before fulfilment.
Dispatch or Stock Plan
Orders can proceed to normal delivery or an agreed staged fulfilment programme.
REPEAT ORDERS
Need the Same Patches Again Later?
Reorders are usually much simpler because the approved artwork and specification already exist. Tell us what you need and we can confirm current pricing, availability and production timing.
HIGH QUANTITIES
Planning Hundreds or Thousands of Patches?
Larger programmes may benefit from package pricing, pre-production testing, staged manufacturing, warehousing and custom fulfilment.
Our dedicated Bulk Patch Ordering Guide explains the commercial and logistical options in more detail.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Custom Patch Ordering FAQs
What is your minimum custom patch quantity?
Do I need vector artwork?
Can you help me choose between embroidered and woven?
Can I see a sample before ordering thousands?
Can you test patches on garments?
Can I order several designs as one larger project?
Can you hold stock and release it in stages?
Can you handle urgent custom patch orders?
READY TO START?
An Idea Is Enough to Begin.
Send us your artwork, rough concept or project brief. We’ll help with patch construction, quantities, pricing, proofing, production and any fulfilment planning your project needs.