Our iron-on patches feature a heat-activated adhesive backing that seals the reverse side of the embroidery and helps secure your patch to suitable fabrics.
HOW TO APPLY YOUR IRON-ON PATCH
Step-by-step instructions
- Prepare your surface
Choose a clean, dry, flat area on your garment or fabric item where you want to position your patch. Make sure the fabric is suitable for ironing. - Position your patch
Place the patch embroidery-side up. Secure it temporarily with heat-resistant tape or a small dab of glue stick to prevent it from moving during application. - Set your iron
Set your iron to the linen/cotton setting (approximately 180°C) with steam switched off. Always check that your fabric can withstand this temperature. Delicate fabrics, synthetic materials and heat-sensitive surfaces may be damaged.
- Protect your fabric
Turn your garment or bag inside out, or position it so you can apply heat from the reverse side of the patch. Place a thin cotton cloth between the iron and your fabric to help protect against scorching.
- Apply heat
Press the iron firmly against the reverse side of the patch area and hold for approximately 8–10 seconds. Avoid moving the iron around excessively, as this may shift the patch.
- Secure the edges
Gently move the iron in small pressing motions around the patch, paying particular attention to the edges and corners. The raised embroidered edge should help you identify where the patch finishes.
- Check your patch
Allow the area to cool slightly, then turn your item right-side out and carefully check that the patch is securely attached. If any edges lift, repeat the application from the reverse side using the protective cotton cloth.
Important application tips
- Never iron directly onto the embroidered front of your patch. Direct heat can damage the stitching, flatten the embroidery or affect the colours.
- A protective cotton cloth is recommended for most fabrics. It may be unnecessary for suitable 100% cotton or denim, but always check the fabric’s heat tolerance first.
- Stretch denim may contain synthetic fibres or elastane and should not automatically be treated as 100% cotton.
- Iron-on backing is not suitable for every fabric or surface. Avoid applying heat to delicate, coated, waterproof or heat-sensitive materials.
- Washing and drying: Because the adhesive is heat-activated, wash your garment in cold water and do not tumble dry. Hot washing or tumble drying may cause the patch edges to lift. If this happens, you can reapply heat from the reverse side using the instructions above to reactivate the adhesive and secure the edges again.
- For additional durability, machine stitching is possible. The sealed backing provides a sturdy patch, but hand sewing can be more difficult. If you prefer hand stitching, we recommend choosing our Plain Backing option.
CARE INSTRUCTIONS – IRON-ON PATCHES
Our embroidered patches feature a heat-activated adhesive backing that seals the reverse side of the embroidery and helps secure your patch to suitable fabrics.
With the right care, you can help keep your patches looking great and securely attached for longer.
Washing and care
- Machine washable: Iron-on patches can be machine washed once securely applied and fully cooled.
- Wash inside out: Turn garments inside out and use a gentle, cold-water wash cycle.
- Use mild detergent: Avoid bleach, fabric softeners and harsh chemicals that may affect the embroidery or adhesive.
- Avoid hot washing: Hot water may weaken the adhesive and cause the patch edges to lift.
- Air dry: Do not tumble dry. Heat from tumble drying can cause the adhesive to soften and the edges to lift. Air drying is recommended.
- Iron with care: Never iron directly onto the embroidered front of your patch. If ironing is necessary, iron from the reverse side using a suitable heat setting for your fabric and a protective cotton cloth.
- Avoid dry cleaning: Dry cleaning and chemical treatments may affect the adhesive and embroidery. Avoid where possible.
- Hand wash for best results: When practical, hand wash gently in cold water and air dry to help extend the life of your patch.
- What if the patch edges lift? Because the adhesive is heat-activated, washing in hot water or tumble drying may cause the edges to lift. If this happens, you may be able to reactivate the adhesive by applying heat from the reverse side again.
Important: Reheating may help secure lifted edges, but it cannot guarantee that damaged or weakened adhesive will bond again. Always check your fabric’s heat tolerance before applying heat.
Additional adhesive: If needed, you can apply a small amount of suitable fabric glue or E6000 to the underside of the lifted edges to help secure them. Use sparingly and take care not to apply too much or accidentally smear glue onto your garment or other item. Always check the adhesive manufacturer’s instructions and compatibility with your fabric or surface before applying.
- A little care goes a long way! For the best results, wash cold, air dry and avoid direct heat on the embroidered surface.