How to Make an Embroidered Patch Stiff & Sturdy

Add rigidity to a homemade patch to give it a realistic look.

Embroidered patches can be seen in many places. You can make your own embroidered patch at home with an embroidery machine, but giving the patch rigidity so it's stiff and sturdy can be a challenge. Whether the patch is mending an article of clothing or is for decorative purpose, there are a variety of ways you can make the patch sturdy.

Fusible Backing

Fusible webbing or backing can be added to an embroidered patch to make it stiff. Fusible backing is available at craft and sewing stores and can be purchased in a variety of thicknesses. Select the heaviest fusible backing for a sturdier patch. Embroider your patch on your embroidery machine while using a water soluble stabilizer. Use a satin stitch around the edge of your patch for the best results. Dip the patch in water to remove the stabilizer. Let the patch dry. Trace the patch onto the fusible backing. Cut out the backing and follow the instructions on the packaging to adhere the backing to the patch. Peel the paper from the backing after it's cooled. Place the patch on your clothing or bag and iron it on.

Patch Material

Embroider your design directly onto a patch material. This stiff polyester material comes in a variety of solid colors to coordinate with your design. Place tear-away stabilizer in your embroidery hoop and spray it with temporary fabric adhesive. Lay the patch material onto the stabilizer. Embroider your patch design with your embroidery machine. Remove the stabilizer from the material. Use a hot knife to cut the patch out. The hot knife heats up to 600 degrees Fahrenheit and seals the patch edge as it cuts. Iron the patch to your clothing or use a fusible backing to iron the patch down.

Blank Patches

Purchase pre-made, blank patches for a realistic feel. Blank patches are available in a variety of shapes and sizes. Select a badge that meets your needs. Lay out a design or a name on your embroidery software. Cut and place tear-away stabilizer in your embroidery hoop, spray a temporary fabric adhesive on the stabilizer and stick the patch to the stabilizer. Embroider your name or design onto the patch. Tear off the stabilizer and sew or iron the patch to your clothing.

Canvas

Embroider your design onto a piece of thick canvas. Use a cotton duck or other thick canvas as your base patch material. Select a cut-away stabilizer in your embroidery hoop to add more stability to the fabric. Cut the excess canvas and stabilizer from your patch design. Apply a fabric stiffener to the patch. Fabric stiffeners are often used on fabric bows to keep them rigid and stiff. Paint the stiffener onto the patch with a foam paintbrush. Let the patch dry per the instructions on the stiffener packaging. If you apply fusible backing to the patch, use a pressing cloth to cover the patch so the stiffener doesn't receive direct heat.