About Iron On Patches
Iron-on patches are a simple, crafty fix for worn-out clothing or to decorate a new project. In a few steps and little time, the appearance of a purse, jacket or T-shirt can be personalized with a little bit--or a lot--of flair. The different types of patches make them a versatile option for a variety of uses, from mending to identification. Does this Spark an idea?
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Function
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Iron-on patches have both a whimsical and practical use. They can be used to mend clothing, from shirts to pants and jeans, but also to add flair to clothes, bags or any number of craft projects. They can be used to display numbers on T-shirts for sports teams or to create matching costumes for dance groups. Best of all, they are a quick and relatively easy way to add personal flare to anything a crafter wants to modify, all without the hassle of needle and thread.
Types
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There are different types of iron-on patches. Store-bought patches, which can be found at "big box" stores as well as craft stores, are the most common type of iron-on patch. These come in a myriad of shapes and sizes or in discreet colors and sizes for mending. Printable transfers are another type that can be used to create personalized patches, typically for purses or T-shirts. They are designed on the computer and printed out and ironed on to the object. Crafty overachievers can use cotton fabric and fusible web (a heat-melting adhesive) to make unique fabric patches.
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Time Frame
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Generally, you hold the iron on the patch for 10 to 15 seconds. If it is a store-bought patch or a printable transfer, check the packaging to see if there is a specified time and heat setting noted. Let the patch cool, and if any corners are peeling up, repeat the process. Sometimes the patch must be ironed on several times before it sticks, and some are better than others.
Considerations
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Cotton-based fabrics work the best for iron-on patches since the heat will not melt or damage the fabric unless the heat is left on for too long. Use the correct iron setting for the fabric, and an ironing board should be used to make the process easier.
Warning
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When ironing the patch, be careful to not burn the patch or the fabric. Pinning the patches to the fabric is a good idea to keep the patches exactly where you want them to stick, since they can move around during the iron-on process. Additionally, because iron-on patches are susceptible to heat, be careful when putting patched clothing into a dryer. The heat may warm the glue and cause some patches to come unstuck.
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Resources
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