Custom Embroidered Patches: Types, Uses & How to Order in Vancouver

Custom patches add a premium tactile touch to jackets, caps, uniforms, backpacks, and merchandise. At ThreadCo Print Shop in Vancouver, we produce four patch styles to fit any project — from classic embroidered patches to modern DTF and sublimated finishes.

The 4 Main Patch Types We Produce

1. Embroidered Patches

The classic, timeless option. Thread-stitched designs on twill, felt, or canvas backing for a textured premium finish. Perfect for sports teams, military and emergency services, motorcycle clubs, scouts, and heritage brands.

2. Faux Leather Patches

Engraved or debossed faux-leather patches give a sleek, premium retail look — popular on caps, trucker hats, beanies, and varsity jackets. Common with streetwear, outdoor, and lifestyle brands.

3. DTF (Direct-to-Film) Patches

Full-color photographic patches printed with our DTF process onto a fabric base. Best for complex multicolor logos, gradients, and detailed artwork that thread can't reproduce. No minimum quantity.

4. Sublimated Patches

Photo-quality dye-sublimation on white poly fabric. Perfect for crisp logos with fine detail and vivid colors. The ink becomes part of the fabric, so patches stay vibrant after years of wear.

Patch Backing Options

• Sew-on — most durable, traditional method, ideal for uniforms and jackets
• Iron-on — quick application with home iron or commercial press
• Velcro — for tactical, military, and modular uniforms where patches swap out
• Adhesive — temporary placement, good for events and giveaways
• Button loop — for keychains, lanyards, and zipper pulls

Common Patch Sizes

• Hat front: 2.5" × 1" (rectangle) or 2" round
• Left chest: 3" – 4" round or rectangular
• Sleeve / shoulder: 3" – 4" round
• Back patch (jackets): 6" – 12" tall

Which Patch Type Fits Your Project?

• Premium look + bold logo → Embroidered
• Retail / streetwear aesthetic → Faux leather
• Complex artwork + small quantity → DTF
• Photo-quality detail → Sublimated

Minimum Order Quantities

Embroidered and faux-leather patches typically require minimums of 25–50 pieces to be cost-effective due to setup. DTF and sublimated patches have no minimum — we can produce a single patch if needed. Larger quantities always reduce per-piece pricing.

Order Custom Patches in Vancouver

Send us your artwork and we'll recommend the best patch type, backing, and size for your project. ThreadCo Print Shop handles everything in-house at our Vancouver facility — from digitizing through finishing. Get a quote today.