How to Make Iron-On Backing on Patches
Patches are used for many purposes including repairing worn areas of pants, celebrating an accomplishment or adding stylish embellishing to clothing and accessories. Sometimes sewing is not an option when applying a patch, making an iron-on backing necessary. This backing makes it possible to turn fabric appliqués and machine-embroidered designs into iron-on patches. Iron-on backing also enables you to reuse patches that have lost their original adhesive backing.
Instructions
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Lay the patch right side down on top of the iron-on adhesive's paper side. Trace with the pencil around the patch and cut out the shape from the adhesive.
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Place a towel on your work surface and heat the iron to its silk setting with the steam setting turned off. Lay the patch right side down on the towel-covered surface and place the iron-on adhesive cutout over the patch with the paper side up.
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Press the adhesive to the patch backing for two seconds with the heated iron. Allow the patch and adhesive to cool and then peel the paper backing away, revealing a shiny layer of iron-on backing.
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To iron the patch onto a garment, prewash and dry the fabric without fabric softener. Lay the patch on the right side of the fabric at your desired location; press it with the iron for five to 10 seconds depending on the thickness of the patch.
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Tips & Warnings
Be careful not to overheat the adhesive as this may cause it to not stick as well.
Wash patched garments in a gentle cycle.
