There are two main ways to create embroidered products – direct embroidery and patches. Direct embroidery is when the design is sewn directly onto the garment, and patch is when a separate piece of embroidered fabric is sewn on top of the garment. So, which method is better? It depends on your needs. Here, we’ll explore the pros and cons of each method to help you decide which is right for you.

Do Patches Look Better Than Direct Embroidery?

There are a few things to consider when deciding if embroidered patches look better than direct embroidery. First, consider the overall design and details of the logo. If the logo is simple and doesn’t have a lot of intricate details, it will likely look better with direct embroidery. However, if the logo has a lot of different colors and complicated details, an embroidered patch will probably look better.

Another thing to consider is how the patch will be used. If you plan on ironing / heat pressing the patch onto a piece of clothing, an embroidered patch will likely look better since it can be ironed on with no visible stitches. However, if you’re planning on sewing the patch onto something, a direct embroidery might look nicer since it can be sewn on more neatly.

Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide which method looks better. Consider the design of your logo and how you plan on using it before making a decision.

When We Should Use Embroidered Patches?

There are a few reasons people might prefer embroidered patches over direct embroidery.

1. A complex logo with lots of tiny details can be made as a patch and be attached to the garment without any spoilage or rejection. The industry’s standard spoilage or rejection rate is 3%. It means 3 out of 100 shirts/jackets will be ruined or damaged during direct embroidering process. There no spoilage when you use patches.

2. Anyone can easily apply iron on patches to clothing or other materials. Whereas, direct embroidery requires that the item be taken to a professional for embroidery. You need a t-shirt heat press to attach iron on patches on shirts/jackets. You can use a cap heat press machine to attach patches on caps/hats.

3. One major advantage of patches over direct embroidery is that they can be easily removed and replaced if necessary. This makes them ideal for items that will be worn frequently or for those who may want to change their look later on.

4. Patches can also be used to cover up an existing embroidered logo. Additionally, patches can be applied to almost any type of fabric, including those that are not suitable for machine embroidery.

When We Should Use Direct Embroidery?

There are a few instances where direct embroidery might be your best option:

1. For a polo or golf shirt. A logo on the upper left chest always looks better with direct embroidery. We cannot put a patch on a performance polo shirt. Direct embroidery is the best choice for this product category. Check the image below.

2. When your customer needs 3D puff embroidery. Iron on patches cannot be done with 3D puff embroidery. Direct embroidery is the only choice for a simple logo with a few letters. Check the image below.

(Image source: https://m2.richardsonsports.com/direct-embroidery)

3. For the back of a cap. We cannot put a patch on the back of a cap. The only option we have is direct embroidery. Check the image below.

(Image source: https://oceanbeachsandiego.com/obmastore/hats-0)