Iron-On Patch Do you want want to proudly display your favorite bands on your jacket sleeve, backpacks or jeans? Iron-on patches are a great way to express your individuality - and they're also useful for hiding damaged or torn spots on your clothes and accessories. Learn how to prepare fabric for a patch, iron it on, and make sure it stays in place after washing.
Part One : Preparing to Iron on a Patch 1. Figure out what type of patch you have. Some patches come with glue on the back, and others simply have a cloth backing. Take a close look at your patch and decide whether you may need additional materials. 2. Examine the fabric of your clothing or accessory. Fabrics like denim and cotton provide the best base for iron-on patches. As a general rule the fabric you choose should be at least as heavy as the patch. 3. Think about design and placement. Before you heat up the iron, lay out your jacket, sash or backpack and decide where exactly you want the patch to be placed.
Part Two : Ironing on the Patch 1. Lay the base item on a flat, heat-resistant surface. An ironing board is useful, but if you don't have one, you may also lay your item across a doubled-up bath towel on a sturdy table. 2. Place the patch in the position you chose. The adhesive side should be flat against the base fabric. Make sure that the patch isn't crooked. 3. Heat up an iron. Turn it to the hottest setting your fabric can tolerate. Make sure the "steam" option is turned off, and that your iron isn't full of water. 4. Place a thin towel over the patch. Take care not to disturb the position of the patch. The towel will protect the patch itself and the surrounding fabric. 5. Position the heated iron over the patch and press down. Hold the iron there for about 15 seconds. Apply as much pressure as you can by pressing down firmly. 6. Remove the iron and allow the patch to to cool. Lift the towel and check to see whether the patch is fixed on securely by gently rubbing at the edge with a finger, trying to lift it. If it lifts up a bit, replace the towel and press it with the iron again for 10 seconds.
Part Three : Caring for Your Patch 1. Consider sewing around the edges. For a completely secure patch, use a sewing machine or a needle and thread to secure the patch to the fabric. This greatly reduces the chances that the patch will fall off. 2. Don't wash the article more than necessary. Iron-on patches are meant to be permanent, but they do become loosened over time. Take care not to let the article get too dirty, since washing it may cause the patch to start coming off.