How To Sew On Patches With A Sewing Machine

Yes, you can easily sew patches onto fabric using a sewing machine. This guide will show you exactly how to do it step-by-step, covering everything from getting ready to picking the right tools like the best stitch for sewing patches and the correct sewing machine needle type for patches. Machine sewing gives your patches a clean, strong hold that lasts a long time. You’ll learn how to attach patch with sewing machine firmly and neatly.

How To Sew On Patches With A Sewing Machine
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Getting Your Supplies Together

Before you start, gather everything you need. Having the right tools makes the job much easier and helps you get a great result.

Your Patch: The star of the show! Make sure it’s clean and ready.
The Fabric Item: This could be a jacket, bag, pair of jeans, or anything else you want to add a patch to. Make sure it’s washed and dry.
Sewing Machine: Any standard home sewing machine should work.
Needles: You’ll need the right sewing machine needle type for patches.
Thread: Choosing the correct thread type for sewing patches is important.
Pins or Fabric Glue: To hold the patch in place before sewing.
Scissors: For cutting thread.
Iron and Ironing Board (Optional): If your patch is iron-on or you need to press the fabric.
Stabilizer (Optional but Recommended): Helpful for using stabilizer for patches on stretchy or thin fabrics.
Fabric Marker or Chalk (Optional): To mark the placement.

Choosing the Right Needle

Picking the correct needle is key for sewing patches. Patches are often thick, especially embroidered patches, and the fabric you sew onto can also be thick (like denim). A standard universal needle might work for thin patches on light fabric, but it can struggle with tougher jobs.

Here are some good choices for sewing machine needle type for patches:

Denim Needle (Jeans Needle): This is often the best choice. It has a very sharp point and a strong shaft. This helps it go through thick layers of fabric and the dense material of the patch without breaking or bending. Sizes 90/14 or 100/16 are common and work well.
Microtex Needle: These needles are very sharp and good for going through dense, tightly woven fabrics or materials like vinyl. If your patch is very dense or has a plastic-like backing, this can be a good option.
Leather Needle: If you are sewing a thick leather patch or sewing onto a leather item, a leather needle is necessary. It has a wedge-shaped point designed to pierce leather.

Using the wrong needle can cause skipped stitches, broken threads, or even damage your machine. Always use a new, sharp needle for the best results. A dull needle can snag or damage the patch or fabric.

Selecting Your Thread

The thread type for sewing patches affects how strong and visible the stitches are.

Polyester Thread: This is a great all-around choice. It’s strong, durable, and has a little stretch, which helps prevent breaking. It comes in many colors to match or contrast with your patch and fabric. Look for an all-purpose weight.
Cotton Thread: Cotton thread is strong but has less stretch than polyester. It works well for sewing onto cotton fabrics. It’s not as durable for items that will be washed often or see a lot of wear.
Heavy Duty Thread: If you are sewing very thick patches or onto heavy materials like canvas or multiple layers of denim, heavy-duty thread offers extra strength. Make sure your machine can handle heavy-duty thread – check your machine’s manual. You might also need a larger needle and adjust the tension.
Embroidery Thread: You might use embroidery thread in the bobbin if you want the underside stitches to match the patch color exactly, but regular polyester or heavy-duty thread is usually better for the top stitching because it’s stronger for securing the patch.

For the top thread, choose a color that matches the border of your patch if you want the stitches to be less noticeable. Choose a contrasting color if you want the stitches to stand out as a design element. Use a matching or neutral color (like white, black, or grey) in the bobbin that matches the fabric item you are sewing onto.

Pondering Stabilizer Use

When sewing patches, especially on items like t-shirts, knit fabrics, or thin materials, using stabilizer for patches is a very good idea. What is stabilizer? It’s a temporary material you put behind the fabric where you are sewing. It helps support the stitches and prevents the fabric from stretching, puckering, or distorting as you sew.

Types of Stabilizer:

Tear-Away Stabilizer: This paper-like stabilizer is placed under the fabric. Once you finish sewing, you simply tear it away from the stitches. It’s easy to use and works well for many projects.
Cut-Away Stabilizer: This soft, fabric-like stabilizer stays in place after sewing. It’s best for knit fabrics or stretchy materials where you need permanent support to stop the fabric from stretching out of shape later. You trim the excess close to the stitches.
Wash-Away Stabilizer: This dissolves when washed. It’s good for delicate fabrics or when you don’t want any stabilizer left behind.

To use stabilizer, cut a piece slightly larger than your patch. Place it on the wrong side of the fabric item, directly behind where the patch will sit on the right side. You can pin it or use temporary spray adhesive to hold it in place while you sew.

Getting Ready to Sew

Preparation is key to a neat finish. Don’t skip these steps!

Prepping Your Fabric Item

First, make sure the item you are sewing the patch onto is clean and dry. If it’s a new item, wash it first to pre-shrink it. Iron the area where the patch will go so it’s smooth. This helps the patch lay flat.

Placing Your Patch

Decide exactly where you want the patch to go. Try it in different spots. Once you know the perfect place, you need to fix it there so it doesn’t move while you sew.

Pins: Use several pins to secure the patch, especially around the edges. Make sure the pins are flat and won’t interfere with your sewing machine foot. Remove pins as you sew towards them.
Fabric Glue Stick: A temporary fabric glue stick is great for holding patches. Apply a thin layer to the back of the patch (or the fabric) and press the patch in place. The glue washes out later. This method avoids pins and keeps the patch perfectly still.
Iron-On Adhesive (Temporary): If your patch is not iron-on but you want a temporary hold, you can buy double-sided iron-on adhesive sheets. Cut a piece to fit the patch, iron it onto the back of the patch, peel the paper, and then iron the patch onto the fabric item to hold it temporarily. Important: This is just for holding; you still need to sew it for a permanent fix, especially if the patch will be washed.

If you are sewing an iron-on patch, the iron-on backing helps hold it, but sewing provides much greater durability, especially after washing. To sew an iron on patch with machine, first iron it in place following the iron-on instructions. This holds it securely while you sew. Then, proceed with machine sewing around the edges.

Using Stabilizer (If Needed)

If you are using stabilizer, place it on the wrong side of the fabric item, behind where the patch is on the front. Secure it with pins or temporary spray adhesive.

Setting Up Your Machine

Getting your sewing machine ready for sewing patches involves a few adjustments.

Changing the Needle and Thread

Based on the thickness of your patch and fabric, install the correct sewing machine needle type for patches (like a denim needle). Thread your machine with the chosen thread type for sewing patches (like strong polyester). Put a matching bobbin thread in place.

Setting the Stitch Type

Choosing the best stitch for sewing patches depends on the look you want and the edge of the patch.

Straight Stitch: A straight stitch is the simplest. You sew a line of stitches close to the edge of the patch. This works well if the patch has a defined border or if you want a simple, clean look. Use a medium stitch length (around 2.5 to 3.0 mm).
Zigzag Stitch: A zigzag stitch goes back and forth across the edge of the patch. This stitch covers the edge of the patch, which can look nice and provides extra security, especially on embroidered patches with a merrowed or finished edge. It’s also good for preventing the patch edge from fraying if it’s unfinished. Using a zigzag stitch for patch edges is a very common method.

Setting Stitch Length and Width (For Zigzag)

Straight Stitch: Set the stitch length. A shorter stitch (2.0 – 2.5 mm) is stronger but takes longer to sew. A slightly longer stitch (2.5 – 3.0 mm) is a good balance. Don’t make it too long, or it won’t hold well.
Zigzag Stitch: You need to set both length and width.
- Width: Adjust the width so the stitch goes just over the edge of the patch on one swing and into the fabric (or patch border) on the other swing. Start with a medium width (2.0 – 3.0 mm) and test it on a scrap. You want it wide enough to cover the edge but not so wide that it looks messy.
- Length: This controls how close together the zigzags are. A shorter length (closer together) means a denser stitch (like a satin stitch, 0.5 – 1.0 mm), which looks very finished but uses a lot of thread. A longer length (more spaced out, 1.5 – 2.5 mm) is quicker and still very strong. Test on a scrap to see what looks best with your patch.

Adjusting Tension

Check your machine’s tension. Sew a test line on scrap fabric using the same layers (fabric item + patch + stabilizer if used). Stitches should look the same on the top and bottom. If the top thread is pulling through to the bottom, the top tension is too tight. If the bobbin thread is pulling through to the top, the top tension is too loose (or bobbin tension is too tight). Adjust the top tension dial until the stitches are balanced.

Lowering the Presser Foot

Make sure you have the correct presser foot installed. A standard presser foot or a walking foot can work. A walking foot is especially helpful for thicker layers or when using stabilizer, as it helps feed all layers through the machine evenly. Lower the presser foot before you start sewing!

Sewing the Patch On

Now for the main part: sewing the patch onto the fabric. This process shows how to attach patch with sewing machine.

Starting the Stitch

Place your fabric item under the presser foot. Position the patch so the needle is ready to start sewing right at the edge of the patch (or just inside the border, depending on your chosen stitch and desired look).

If using a straight stitch, start just inside the patch border.
If using a zigzag stitch, position it so the right swing of the needle goes just over the edge of the patch and the left swing lands on the fabric or patch border.

Lower the presser foot. Before sewing forward, sew a few stitches in reverse to secure the thread. Then, sew forward.

Sewing Around the Edges

Sew slowly and carefully around the edge of the patch. Guide the fabric with your hands, keeping the edge of the patch lined up with your needle or presser foot guide.

Straight Stitch: Sew a line of stitches close to the edge or border of the patch. Try to keep the distance consistent all the way around.
Zigzag Stitch: Sew slowly, guiding the patch so the zigzag stitch covers the edge as intended.

When you get to a corner on a square or rectangular patch:

Sew close to the corner.
Stop sewing with the needle down in the fabric (or patch border). This acts as a pivot point.
Lift the presser foot.
Turn the fabric item 90 degrees.
Lower the presser foot.
Continue sewing along the next edge.

For round or irregular shaped patches, you’ll need to gently turn the fabric and patch as you sew, following the curve of the patch edge. Go slowly and make small adjustments to guide it smoothly.

Keep checking that the patch is lying flat and hasn’t shifted, especially if you only used pins to secure it.

Securing the End of the Stitch

When you reach the point where you started sewing, overlap your starting stitches by about 1-2 cm (half an inch). This helps in securing patch with sewing machine so the stitches don’t come undone. Sew a few stitches in reverse back over the overlap.

Finishing Up

Lift the presser foot and pull the fabric away from the machine. Cut the threads close to the fabric. If you used pins, remove them. If you used tear-away stabilizer, carefully tear it away from the back. If you used cut-away stabilizer, trim the excess close to the stitches.

Check the front and back to make sure the stitches look neat and the patch is securely attached.

Working With Different Types of Patches and Fabrics

The basic steps are the same, but some situations need slightly different approaches.

Sewing Embroidered Patches

Sewing embroidered patches onto fabric is one of the most common tasks. Embroidered patches are often thicker and have a raised, finished edge (sometimes called a merrowed edge).

Needle: Definitely use a strong needle like a denim needle (90/14 or 100/16).
Thread: Strong polyester thread is ideal.
Stitch: A zigzag stitch is often the best stitch for sewing patches with finished edges. Set the width to go over the edge of the patch and the length to create a nice, even satin stitch or a slightly more open zigzag. Sew right along the outer edge of the merrowed border.
Stabilizer: Can be very helpful, especially if the base fabric is thin or stretchy, as the dense embroidery can pull and distort the fabric.

Sewing Iron-On Patches

As mentioned earlier, how to sew iron on patch with machine starts by ironing the patch onto the fabric. This holds it in place much better than pins or glue alone while you sew. The iron-on adhesive provides extra structure to the patch, which can make it easier to sew.

Needle: A universal or denim needle should work, depending on the patch thickness and fabric.
Thread: Polyester thread is good.
Stitch: Both straight stitch (just inside the border) or zigzag stitch (covering the edge) work well. Choose the stitch that looks best with the patch design.

Even though the patch is ironed on, sewing is highly recommended for anything that will be washed or used frequently. The iron-on adhesive alone often doesn’t last through many washes.

Sewing Patches on Jacket Sleeves or Pockets

Sewing patches on jacket sleeves, pockets, or other tight areas can be tricky because you have limited space under the sewing machine arm.

Maneuvering: Turn the jacket inside out and try to isolate the area you are sewing on so you can slide it onto the machine’s free arm (if your machine has one) or flatten it out as much as possible under the needle.
Opening Seams (Advanced): For very difficult spots like the back of a small pocket, some experienced sewers will carefully open a seam on the item (like the bottom seam of a jacket lining or a sleeve seam), sew the patch on flat, and then sew the seam back up. This is more work but can lead to a perfect finish.
Go Slow: Take your time maneuvering the bulky fabric. Stop often with the needle down to adjust the position.

Sewing on Stretchy or Thin Fabrics

When adding patches to t-shirts, leggings, or lightweight blouses, preventing stretching and puckering is crucial.

Stabilizer: Always use stabilizer! Cut-away is best for knits or very stretchy fabrics. Tear-away can work for thin wovens.
Needle: Use a ballpoint or stretch needle for knits to avoid damaging the fabric fibers.
Stitch: A zigzag stitch is often better than a straight stitch on knits because the zigzag has some stretch and is less likely to break when the fabric stretches. Use a moderate width and length. A triple straight stitch (sews each stitch forward three times) is also a strong option that offers some flexibility.
Handle Carefully: Avoid pulling or stretching the fabric as you sew. Let the machine feed the fabric.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sometimes things don’t go perfectly the first time. Here are solutions to common problems:

Skipped Stitches: This is often caused by the wrong needle type, a dull needle, or incorrect tension. Make sure you are using the correct sewing machine needle type for patches (like a denim needle), that it’s installed correctly, and that the tension is balanced.
Thread Breaking: Can be due to high tension, a dull or wrong needle, using weak thread (like cotton on a stretchy fabric), or sewing too fast. Check your tension, needle, thread type for sewing patches, and slow down.
Fabric Puckering: Usually happens on thin or stretchy fabrics. Use stabilizer! Also, check your tension – it might be too high. Make sure you aren’t pulling the fabric as you sew.
Patch Shifting: Make sure you’ve secured the patch well with pins, glue, or ironing before you start sewing. Go slow and check placement as you sew.
Stitches Not Catching on the Back: This means the bobbin thread isn’t being picked up. This is often a top tension issue (too tight) or a problem with the bobbin (incorrectly wound or inserted).

Tips for a Professional Look

Practice First: If it’s your first time, practice sewing on a scrap piece of fabric with a similar weight to your project. You can even cut a piece of felt the size of your patch to practice sewing around.
Choose the Right Color Thread: Matching the thread to the patch border makes the stitches blend in. Contrasting thread makes the stitches part of the design.
Sew from the Top: Always sew with the patch facing up so you can guide it accurately along the edge.
Iron When Done: After sewing and removing stabilizer, give the area a final press (use a pressing cloth if needed, especially for embroidered patches) to make everything lay flat and look finished.
Double Check Securing: Make sure you backstitched well at the start and end to keep the stitches from unraveling, effectively securing patch with sewing machine.

Advantages of Machine Sewing Patches

While hand sewing or ironing might seem easier for some patches, using a sewing machine offers significant benefits:

Durability: Machine stitches are stronger and hold the patch much more securely, especially important for items that will be washed or used roughly (like jackets or backpacks).
Speed: Machine sewing is much faster than hand sewing, especially for larger patches or multiple patches.
Neatness: A sewing machine creates consistent, even stitches for a clean, professional look.
Versatility: You can use different stitch types (straight, zigzag) and adjust settings for various looks and levels of security.

Conclusion

Sewing patches onto fabric with a sewing machine is a simple process once you know the steps. By choosing the right needle and thread, preparing your materials with stabilizer if needed, and carefully guiding your project through the machine using the best stitch for sewing patches, you can add durable, professional-looking patches to your clothes and accessories. Whether you’re sewing embroidered patches onto fabric, attaching a cool patch to a jacket, or figuring out how to sew iron on patch with machine for extra hold, your sewing machine is the best tool for the job. Take your time, set up your machine correctly, and you’ll have great results.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the best stitch for sewing patches?
A: The best stitch depends on the patch edge. A straight stitch is good for patches with a defined border. A zigzag stitch is excellent for covering the edge of embroidered or raw-edged patches for extra security and a finished look, especially using a zigzag stitch for patch edges.

Q: What kind of needle should I use for sewing patches?
A: A strong needle like a denim needle (sizes 90/14 or 100/16) is usually the sewing machine needle type for patches. It can handle the thickness of the patch and the fabric.

Q: Do I need to use stabilizer for sewing patches?
A: Using stabilizer for patches is highly recommended, especially on stretchy, thin, or knit fabrics. It helps prevent the fabric from puckering and makes sewing smoother.

Q: Can I just iron on a patch instead of sewing it?
A: You can just iron on a patch if it has an iron-on backing, but it’s generally not as durable as sewing. For items that will be washed or used often, sewing is needed to truly secure the patch. You can how to sew iron on patch with machine by ironing it first for placement, then sewing it.

Q: What is the best thread type for sewing patches?
A: Strong polyester all-purpose thread is a good choice (thread type for sewing patches). For very thick patches or fabrics, heavy-duty thread might be better if your machine can handle it.

Q: How do I make sure the patch is securely attached with the sewing machine?
A: Use the right stitch and tension, sew close to the edge of the patch, and remember to backstitch at the start and end of your stitching line for securing patch with sewing machine.

Q: Is it hard to sew patches on jacket sleeves?
A: Sewing patches on jacket sleeves or pockets can be difficult due to the small space. Go slowly, maneuver the fabric carefully, and use a free arm if your machine has one. Practice on scrap fabric first if needed.