What Material to Choose for Your Patches

Whether you’re designing custom patches for your company, team, or just for fun, Tactical Gear Junkie has you covered. With so many custom patches available, finding the right one can feel like navigating a maze. Don’t worry—we’ll break it all down for you so you can make the best choice. 

From classic embroidered styles to modern PVC, each patch has its own vibe and function. 

Let’s dive into the details to find your perfect match.

Embroidered Patches

There’s a reason embroidered patches have been around forever—they look sharp and add a touch of tradition to anything they’re slapped on. These patches are made by stitching colorful threads onto a fabric backing, creating designs that pop.

Why go embroidered?

• Perfect for logos, text, and detailed graphics.

• Great for jackets, hats, and bags—basically, anything you want to give a classic, polished look.

• They come in 50%, 75%, or 100% embroidery coverage, so you can decide how much fabric you want to show.

Pro Tip: Want a clean, fray-free edge? Go for a merrowed border. Have a funky shape in mind? Laser-cut edges will do the trick.

PVC Patches

If embroidered patches are the old-school classic, PVC patches are the edgy up-and-comer. Made from flexible, waterproof PVC material, these patches are built to last. 

Plus, they look sleek and professional, making them ideal for tactical gear.

What makes PVC awesome?

• Super durable—resistant to water, heat, and even UV light.

• Designs can be 2D (flat) or 3D for extra dimension.

• Perfect for outdoor gear, backpacks, and anything that takes a beating.

Fun Fact: You can even add glow-in-the-dark details for patches that literally shine at night.

Laser Cut Patches

Laser-cut patches are often the cool, minimalist option. These are made with laser-cutting materials like cordura or ripstop fabric, giving you clean, precise edges and endless design possibilities.

Why choose laser cut?

• Ideal for detailed, layered designs.

• Cordura fabric offers top-notch tear resistance, while Ripstop is lightweight and tough.

• Options like reflective or glow-in-the-dark underlays add a unique look.

Heads Up: Laser-cut patches are amazing for creating intricate shapes, but keep in mind that tiny floating pieces (like the center of an “O”) need a little extra support.

Printed Vinyl Patches

Do you need a patch that looks as good as a high-res photo? Printed vinyl is the way to go. These patches feature sharp, vibrant graphics printed on a durable vinyl base, perfect for designs with lots of color or detail.

Why vinyl rocks:

• Top-notch durability—these patches laugh in the face of water, heat, and wear.

• Perfect for colorful, intricate designs that other patch styles might struggle with.

• Backing options include Velcro for easy attachment.

Bonus: Want something with a little more of that “wow” factor? Ask about glow-in-the-dark or reflective finishes!

Sublimation Patches

Sublimation is your go-to for a patch that’s lightweight and soft but doesn’t skimp on color. The design is dyed directly into the fabric using heat and pressure, creating a seamless, vibrant look.

Sublimation’s highlights:

• Perfect for full-color designs with gradients or shading.

• Ideal for apparel or gear where comfort is key—these patches are smooth to the touch.

Woven Patches

When your design needs to capture every tiny line, woven patches deliver. These are made by weaving threads together, creating a smooth, detailed image.

Why woven patches stand out:

• Excellent for small text and intricate designs.

• Thinner and more lightweight than embroidered patches.

• Perfect for uniforms, hats, and anywhere you want a sleek finish.

Choosing the Right Patch for Your Needs

Not sure which patch is right for you? Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:

Why Choose Tactical Gear Junkie for Custom Patches?

Tactical Gear Junkie brings over a decade of experience in delivering top-quality patches for military, law enforcement, corporate teams, and hobbyists. With advanced manufacturing techniques, a wide range of materials, and customization options, we ensure every patch meets your exact needs. Plus, all our patches are proudly made in the USA.

Ready to create your custom patch? Request a Quote today, and let’s make it happen!