Step 1: Choose Your Patch Type
The first decision is the production method. Each type has a distinct look, feel, and price point:
Embroidered Patches: Classic raised-thread look. Best for bold logos and team identity.
Woven Patches and Woven Labels and Tags: Flat and fine-detail. Best for clothing labels, small text, and intricate artwork.
PVC Patches: Soft rubber, waterproof, full-colour. Best for outdoor gear, military, and morale patches.
Leather Patches: Premium laser-engraved or debossed look. Best for hats, bags, and luxury apparel.
Chenille Patches: Fuzzy varsity-style texture. Best for letterman jackets and scholastic awards.
Sublimated Printing Patches: Full-colour photo-quality print. Best for complex gradients and photographic artwork.
3D Puff Embroidery: Embroidery over foam for a dramatic raised effect. Best for caps.
Silicone and TPU Patches and Transfers: Flexible, heat-applied, premium sportswear look.
Step 2: Define Your Specifications
Before getting a quote, gather these details:
| Spec | Why It Matters | Typical Range |
|---|---|---|
| Size (W x H inches) | Directly affects price | 1 inch by 1 inch to 12 inch by 12 inch |
| Quantity | Biggest price driver | 10 to 100,000 or more |
| Thread and colour count | Affects setup cost | 1 to 15 colours |
| Backing type | Application method | Iron-on, sew-on, Velcro, adhesive |
| Border style | Finish look | Merrowed edge, die-cut, laser-cut |
| Thread coverage | Embroidered only | 50% to 100% |
Step 3: Prepare Your Artwork
Good artwork equals accurate patches. Here is what to send:
Vector: AI, EPS, SVG, or PDF files scale infinitely without quality loss and are always preferred.
Raster: PNG or JPEG at 300 dpi or higher are acceptable for simple designs; complex art may need tracing.
Artwork tips
Use solid colours, not gradients, for embroidered and woven patches.
Avoid text smaller than 6pt for embroidered or 4pt for woven patches.
Include a colour reference such as Pantone or CMYK codes, or note that you want us to match your brand colours.
No artwork yet? Logo Factory offers basic design assistance. Ask when requesting your quote.
Step 4: Request a Free Quote
Submit your specs and artwork through our quote form. You will receive a detailed price breakdown within one business day, a free digital proof showing how your patch will look, and your production and delivery timeline. No payment is required until you approve the proof.
Step 5: Approve the Proof
Every order gets a digital proof and optionally a physical sample for large orders. Review that colours match your brand, text is correct and readable, proportions and size look right, and backing type is correct. Once you approve, production begins. Changes after approval may delay the order.
Step 6: Production and Shipping
Standard production: 10 to 15 business days after approval
Rush production: 5 to 7 business days with an additional fee
Standard air freight to USA: 5 to 7 business days
Expedited shipping: 2 to 3 business days
Pricing Guide by Quantity
Custom patch pricing drops dramatically with volume. Here is a general ballpark for a 3-inch embroidered patch with 70% thread coverage and iron-on backing:
| Quantity | Approximate Price Per Patch |
|---|---|
| 25 | $5.00 to $7.00 |
| 50 | $3.50 to $5.00 |
| 100 | $2.50 to $3.50 |
| 250 | $1.75 to $2.50 |
| 500 | $1.25 to $1.75 |
| 1000 or more | Under $1.00 |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Sending low-resolution artwork leads to blurry edges and production delays.
Choosing the wrong backing means problems. Use sew-on for hats, iron-on for casual wear, and Velcro for tactical gear.
Too many small details get lost in embroidery. Use woven or PVC for intricate designs.
Not ordering enough: Per-unit cost drops sharply with quantity. Order 20 to 30% more than you need for future use.
Skipping the proof review: Always read the proof carefully before approving production.
Ready to Order?
Use our instant quote tool to get pricing in minutes, or browse our full catalog of patch types and styles. Logo Factory ships to all 50 US states with fast, reliable delivery.
