Can You Heat Press Iron On Patches?

While sewing on patches has long been the traditional method of attaching items to clothing, it’s certainly not the only way. Heat press iron-on patches are simple and easy to apply and don’t require all of that complicated needle and thread work.

Are Iron On and Heat Seal Patches the Same Thing?

Regarding patches, you might see the terms’ iron on’ or ‘heat seal’ – or perhaps both together – but they are essentially the same thing. When you see ‘iron on’, it immediately provides a visual interpretation of what people can quickly do at home. At the same time, ‘heat seal’ could be more ambiguous but technically describes the process at play, especially when using a heat press.

When To Choose Iron On Patches

Iron-on patches are ideal for those with limited sewing knowledge or those who understand sewing yet wish to make their lives even more straightforward. Iron-on patches are simple and easy to apply, making the process accessible to practically everybody.

However, you do need to be aware of what you are planning to attach a patch to. We recommend securing a patch to a material that can easily withstand the heat from an iron, such as cotton, canvas, or polyester. Never attach a patch to velvet, suede, or leather, as you could damage the material.

While iron-on patches are great in ease and practicality, they come with drawbacks compared to sew-on patches. Sew-on versions are more durable and flexible and can be removed much easier than iron-on patches. They can also be personalized with embroidery to create a truly unique look that isn’t possible with iron-on patches.

How to Apply Iron On Patches Using a Heat Press

Using an iron is a simple way to attach a patch to an item of clothing, but a heat press takes things up a level or two. This allows you to exert significantly more pressure and heat over a patch while keeping it locked in place. If a heat press is an option, it’s worth taking.

1. Heat – Set the temperature of your heat press to between 360 and 370 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Place – Carefully place the piece of material you wish to attach the patch to down on the base and put it in its desired location facing up.
3. Cover – Before applying heat, cover the patch with wax paper or a Teflon sheet to protect it from heat.
4. Press – Lower the heat press with the handle and apply pressure for 18 seconds.
5. Remove – Remove the item of clothing, complete with the newly attached patch, and leave it to cool.

Create Your Own Custom Iron On Patch With THE/STUDIO

Using an iron-on patch couldn’t be easier. Why choose to have something on your clothes that has already appeared a thousand times before? Are you looking to blend in or really stand out in the crowd? With the right custom patch, you can take your aesthetic to a whole new level in no time at all.

Creating a fully customized iron-on patch with THE/STUDIO allows you to do just that. Whatever your design, whether it’s taken years of work or something you scribbled on the back of a napkin in a moment of clarity, we can turn it into a full-fledged patch in a matter of days. Now that you know about ironing on patches, this last part is up to you.