How to Customize Christian Biker Patches
Motorcycles represent many things, not the least of which is freedom. And one important concept in Christianity is freedom in Christ. With such an emphasis on freedom, it is little wonder that there would be a desire to have freedom to customize Christian biker patches. Customizations may be completed most easily with paint, but some minor customizations may be made with a sewing machine or needle and thread. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Biker patch
- Color copy machine
- Pen
- Heat-resistant fabric paint (for heat-adhered patches)
- Water-resistant fabric paint (for embroidered-on patches)
- Similar patch for sample work
- Paintbrush
- Sewing machine capable of embroidery
- Thimble
- Needle
- Thread
- Scissors
Instructions
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Painting Customizations
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1
Make a copy of the original patch with a color copy machine. A black-and-white copy machine can work, but it may be harder to see differentiations in the colors.
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2
Draw alterations on the copied page.
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3
Practice making the additions on the copied page with fabric paints, whether you intend to squeeze the paint out or paint it on.
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4
Carefully make the additions to the patch. If using a brush, make small strokes.
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5
Allow it to dry for at least three days. Sandy Myers, an artist, advises allowing it to dry for up to a week if it is a heat-adherent patch.
Embroider Customizations
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6
Make a copy of the original patch with a color copy machine. A black-and-white copy machine can work, but it may be harder to see differentiations in the colors.
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7
Draw alterations on the copied page. Develop a special code to indicate whether you are embroidering French knots, hatching, etc.
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8
Embroider a sample on a blank sheet of material similar to the patch to see how the sewing machine handles the thickness of the patch and the evenness of the stitches. Hand embroider only if you are adding something small like a simple symbol.
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9
Embroider on your additions. Allow the sewing machine to cool if it starts to overheat.
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10
Cut the thread. Weave the last bit of thread in so it does not unravel.
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Tips & Warnings
Be aware that painted-on additions on an embroidered biker patch will stand out. Painted biker patches will blend better with the paint.
If you have large scale customizations to a biker patch, you may save time and money by purchasing a customized biker patch. Stores that specialize in biker gear and that sell biker patches may offer that service. Check with stores about their policies on this and what they need from you.
Do not hand embroider without a thimble. Biker patches are made of a thick material that allows them to be later attached, generally through heat or professional machine embroidery. Trying to push a needle through the material can be difficult at first, and the thimble will protect your finger.
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Brand X Pictures/Getty Images
