Embroidered Patches

Emblem Size Specifications

• 1" x 1" (±1 mm)
• 18" x 11" (±1 mm)
  

Color Limitations

For embroidered designs, up to 15 thread colors can be used. This includes colors used in overlock, satin stitch, and clean-cut borders.

For Appliqué-style patches, 100% embroidery is required with a satin border, and the minimum size must be at least 0.5” x 0.5”.

Backing Options

⚠️ Please note: The selected backing will not cover the merrow (overlock) border.

Backing Details & Limitations

• Best suited for thicker fabrics like jackets and caps that can handle heat press temperatures around 320°F. Avoid using on heat-sensitive materials (e.g., silk, nylon, fleece, leather, or chemically treated surfaces) as adhesion may be compromised.
  
• Ideal for smooth, non-porous surfaces such as glass, plastic, metal, or finished wood. Not recommended for textured or oily surfaces like silicon, Teflon™, or rough fabrics.
  
• Includes both hook and loop sides, with the hook side pre-attached to the patch. A merrow or overlock border is required. For emblems taller than 4", multiple Velcro strips will be used side-by-side for secure attachment.
  

Thread Cutting Rules

If the separation between one embroidery element and another is greater than 1 mm, a cut must be included to avoid loose or crossed threads. In the case of text, the cut will be made if the separation between letters is equal to or greater than 1mm.

Washing Instructions

Industrial heat seal backings can withstand up to 52 industrial wash cycles and Velcro® backings are suitable for 52 domestic washes.

Shelf Life

TK Patches emblems offer a shelf life of up to 1 year, when stored in a temperature-controlled environment prior to application.

Pressure-Sensitive Backing

Clean the surface area thoroughly using rubbing alcohol.

Peel off the paper liner and firmly press the patch onto the desired location.

For best adhesion, ensure the surface is smooth, clean, and dry before applying.

Low Melt Backing — Using a 360 IQ™ Hat Heat Press (For Hats)

• Top Platen Temperature: 255°–265°F
• Bottom Platen Temperature: 315°–320°F
• Pressure: 60–80 PSI
• Preheat: Not required
• Dwell Time: 15–18 seconds
• Instructions: Place the hat on the heat press, making sure to leave the internal lining out of the press zone. Apply heat directly to the patch area for proper adhesion.

Low Melt Backing — With Top & Bottom Heat (For Garments)

• Top Platen Temperature: 255°–265°F
• Bottom Platen Temperature: 315°–320°F
• Pressure: 60–80 PSI
• Preheat: Not required
• Dwell Time: 15–18 seconds
• Optional Protection: For delicate fabrics such as nylon, lycra, or 100% polyester, we recommend using a FlexStyle® Silicone Pad on top of the garment during pressing.

Low Melt Backing — With Top Heat Only (For Garments)

• Temperature: 315°–325°F
• Pressure: 70–80 PSI
• Preheat: Not required
• Dwell Time: 14–18 seconds
• Instructions: Position the patch on the desired location and hold it in place using thermal tape. Turn the garment inside out and apply heat from the interior side.
• Optional: Use a FlexStyle® Silicone Pad over the garment for extra protection on delicate fabrics.

🔥 Industrial Heat Seal (For High-Temperature Garment Application)

• Top & Bottom Temperature: 395°–405°F
• Pressure: 60–80 PSI
• Preheat: Not required
• Dwell Time: 10–14 seconds

Note: When applying to heat-sensitive or fine fabrics, a silicone pad can help prevent damage.

⚠️ Disclaimer

TK Patches recommends testing various heat seal settings prior to full production. Application results may vary depending on fabric type, equipment, and conditions. TK Patches is not responsible for any damage caused during application due to improper heat settings or untested materials.

Pricing

Using the drop-downs above, you can find the approximate price per item, based on the emblem size and quantity ordered.

To determine the size of your emblem, use the following formula:
Size = Width + Height / 2

Price Includes

• All finishes
• Heat seal or pressure-sensitive backing

Add-ons

• 25% increase for metallic thread
• 10% per color for designs over 6 thread colors
• 25% increase for Velcro backing
• 10% for thread colors not available on the TK Patches thread chart
• $1.65 for each personalization (name droppers)

Electronic Proof

A digital proof via email is available in 1 day. Edits are allowed.

Set-up Charges

One-time sample and setup fees.

• Up to 4.00”: $60
• 4.01 - 6.00”: $80
• 6.01 - 8.00”: $120
• 8.01 - 10.00”: $140
• 10.01 - 12.00”: $160
• Edits: $30

Production Time

Samples will take 1 day plus shipping. Production time will take 4 days plus shipping on an order up to 2,500 pieces. Add 1 day per 2,500 pieces.