Club patches and badges

Club patches are used in one way or another in almost every club: whether a sports club, fan club, music society, carnival society or whatever else. With patches (as they are often called), clubs show their members' membership on the one hand and create a sense of togetherness. At the same time they are of course good publicity and a way of presenting the club. And for that they should not only show your own design but also be of high quality – delivered free of shipping charges within Germany, of course.

Shapes, colours and sizes of club patches

Patches for clubs should of course match your own ideas as perfectly as possible. And that is entirely possible: whether rectangular or round, crest-shaped or a completely free, irregular outline – you alone decide what outline your patches should have, always a perfect fit for your club symbol.

And the size is (almost) entirely up to you too: a patch can even be more than 40 by 29 cm. That size is rarely used, though. Most patches are the usual size of 7 to 10 cm.

In terms of colour, patches are usually embroidered or woven from 8 different thread colours. These eight colours can be chosen freely from a large selection of 252 colours (for embroidered patches; for woven ones from as many as 464 thread colours) – all colours and colour combinations are possible. There are even special threads with a gold, silver and bronze look for club patches that really stand out.

Printed patches are an exception when it comes to colours: with them you can even use any number of individual colour values in the design (just as is normal when printing on paper).

And the font for the text? Also freely selectable (but please note our Tips for lettering on patches).

Club patches embroidered, woven or printed?

The usual and most widespread patches are embroidered patches, mostly with a chain stitch edge. This version is also the cheapest and these patches are the most robust.

If, however, you have a design that needs to show finer detail (or small lettering), embroidered production reaches the limits of what is feasible. Woven patches may then be a solution. They are also flatter and more flexible as patches.

Printed patches are also suitable for very fine, highly detailed or more photorealistic artwork or small lettering, even though this production method is the most expensive.

Also read our detailed comparison of embroidered, woven and printed patches.

Club logos and iron-on club patches

Yes, you can also have your club logo or crest made as an iron-on patch. To do so, select the ‘Iron-on’ option in the price calculator or when placing your order. The patch will then be coated on the reverse side with fabric adhesive and can be attached to shirts, jackets, caps or bags using a hot iron, without the need for sewing.

Unlike iron-on transfer foils, this type of fabric iron-on does not fray, no foil comes away, and it can be sewn over if necessary. This makes it the more durable choice for club kit that is washed frequently.

The Advantages and disadvantages of sewing on versus ironing on as explained in our magazine article. You might also find this interesting: our Instructions for iron-on application. Our general page on Iron-on logo provides further information on this topic.

FAQ: Club logos as patches / iron-on patches

What is the best way to apply club logos and emblems to clothing?

There are three options: club logos and other club emblems as patches, with an ironing surface where applicable. Alternatively, direct embroidery onto the garments. Transfer foils are not recommended, as they are less durable, particularly when club clothing is worn frequently.

Is it possible to have club logos made as iron-on patches?

Yes, as fabric patches with an iron-on backing: can be ironed on without sewing, available from 10 pieces, embroidered/woven/printed. And more durable than iron-on transfer foils.

Club badges – which production method is best?

Embroidered club badges are classic, durable and the most affordable option. Woven badges are ideal for fine details, whilst printed badges are best for photo-realistic designs. Rubber patches (rubber-like PVC) are suitable for special applications, such as waterproof badges and outdoor use in all weathers.

Do iron-on club patches survive the wash?

Yes, they are machine-washable and colourfast. Only with very frequent washing does this fade slightly over time (just like any other item of clothing). However, for garments that are subject to heavy wear and tear, the edges of the iron-on patches can easily be sewn over.