Woven patches can be used to add durable logos and designs to clothes and accessories. Woven patches are made using a loom, while embroidered patches are stitched onto fabric. Intricate designs can be made using woven patches. They are flatter and have a high thread count. For small text or intricate designs, they are ideal. Making woven patches for your company, sports team or personal project can be very rewarding. This guide will walk you through all the steps on How to make woven patches
A woven patch can be customized and durable, while embroidered patches are made with thread. Woven patches are made on woven fabric, unlike embroidered patches, which use thread. A woven patch can be used to brand, create team logos, and add military emblems and fashion. This versatility makes them ideal for a variety of uses. With Velcro, Velcro adhesive or iron-on backings, customization is easy. They can be worn for a long time on uniforms, clothing, bags, and hats. Woven patches retain their appearance for a long time.
How to make woven patches
Understanding how to make woven patches involves mastering both the design process and the weaving techniques.
Gather the materials and tools you need to make woven patches before starting. What you’ll need:
Materials:
1.   Patch Material- Woven patches, such as twill, are made from a flexible, durable fabric like polyester or twill.
2.   Thread for Embroidery- High-quality threads in different colors to match the design.
3.   Backing Materials- To attach the woven patches to a garment use a strong backing. Adhesive, iron-on backing or Velcro are all good choices.
4.   Thread to Edging- A matching or contrasting thread for the final edge of your woven patches.
5.   Needles- The type of needle you choose will depend on the fabric and thread thickness.
6.   A Patch Design- A digital version of the design that you wish to weave.
Tools:
1.   Loom- The essential tool to weave the threads in the patch design.
2.   Embroidery Machine Optional- Some advanced methods require embroidery machines to achieve finer details.
3.   Scissors or Cutting Tool- To trim extra threads and fabrics.
4.   Iron (Optional) – To apply an iron-on back.
5.   Sewing machine (Optional)- To secure the edges and add details as needed.
Let’s get started now that you have the materials and tools.
Step 1. Create or Select a Design
First, choose or create a design. These patches are characterized by intricate details and fine patterns. Select the one that best suits your and weaving techniques.
Tips on Creating a Design:
·     Simplify your Artwork–  Woven patches are a great way to hold details and small text. However, avoid complex designs. The best designs are simple with clear shapes and colours.
·     Use vector graphics– Use vector software such as Adobe Illustrator or CorelDRAW for creating woven patches using digital designs. It will ensure that your design is scalable and maintains its quality when woven onto fabric.
·     Use fewer colors–  Woven patches are often better off with fewer colours. So, simplify your design’s colors. It will make the patch stronger and the colors more clear.
After you’ve completed your design, you can proceed to the next stage.
Step 2: Install your Loom
It is essential to make woven patches. The loom interlaces the threads in order to create patterns. Depending on your setup, you can use either a manual or computerized loom.
Manual Setup for Looms:
1.   Thread Your Loom- First, you need to set up your loom. Add the “warp thread”. This thread is the foundation of your woven patch.
2.   Prepare Weft Thread- The weft weaves over and underneath the warp to form the design. Choose colors that are appropriate for your design.
Automated Loom Setup:
Input the design into the software for automated weaving machines. The machine will then weave automatically. Ensure that the fabric and threads have been set up correctly.
Step 3: Weaving the Patch
It’s now time to weave your patch.
Weaving process:
1.   Start weaving – Your design is now ready to weave. Weft threads are interwoven over and underneath the warp threads according to your design. The clearer your design will be, the more precise you can be.
2.   Check your Design – Regularly pause and check the design. Check that the colors, and threads, are aligned correctly. It is important to do this for woven patches that have text or complex shapes.
3.   Finish Weaving-  After finishing weaving, remove the patch from the loom gently. Trim all loose threads.
Step 4: Add the Edging
The edge of woven patches is usually neat, which enhances their appearance and strength. This edge requires careful attention.
Techniques for Edging:
·     Overlocking- Sew an overlock stitch along the edges of the patch. This will prevent fraying and improve the appearance of your patch.
·     Heat sealing- Some manufacturers uses heat sealing to add an edge to patches. This method provides a professional look without the need for stitching.
·     Iron on Edging- Apply the iron-on patch to the edge of your garment to prevent fraying.
Step 5: Apply the Backing
You can attach the backing to clothing, or any other material. Patch backing comes in a variety of options.
Types of Patch Backings:
1.   Iron On Backing- For application of no-sew patches, you should consider iron on backing. Heat the patch, and then iron it on to the fabric.
2.   Adhesive Backing- Some patches have an adhesive back. The backing can be peeled and then applied to the desired surface.
3.   Velcro- Attach Velcro on the back to make a removable patch.
4.   Sew On- To make the patch more permanent, you can sew it on by machine or hand.
Step 6: Final touches
You may wish to make improvements before you are finished. It will look and last longer if you add a few finishing touches.
·     Iron the Patch- Gently iron to remove wrinkles, particularly if you are using an iron-on backing.
·     Trim the Edges- If necessary trim and shape the edges of the patch to the desired size.
Conclusion
If you’re interested in custom embroidery, learning how to make woven patches is a great skill to develop.
Creating woven patches is an intricate process that requires skill and attention to detail. Each step is crucial in ensuring a durable and visually appealing final product. It is possible to create long-lasting woven patches with practice and precision, whether you want to use them for personal branding or a business purpose.
