When it comes to custom patches for jackets, the first example that comes to mind for many people is motorcycle club patches. Colorful patches often adorn the back of riders’ jackets, indicating membership in a club.
Those who are not members of a club might not be aware that there are specific rules for patches within those clubs. In some cases, even those who are not club members could face some unpleasant surprises for not following the rules.
The first key is to know the difference between a riding (or riders’) club and a motorcycle club. Typically, a riding club is a loose organization of people who like to ride. It may be geared toward owners of certain bikes (Harley Owners’ Group – HOG, for example.) Members might live in a specific area or belong to a specific profession, such as law enforcement.
Riding clubs generally have few, if any membership requirements, and are easy to join. You can purchase custom patches for jackets and be accepted immediately.
Motorcycle clubs, on the other hand, have more stringent requirements to join, and more responsibilities for the members. Patches are earned, not purchased, and can take a substantial commitment of time and energy to win. It can take years to reach full membership in some motorcycle clubs.
Motorcycle clubs most often wear the classic three-piece patches on the back of their jackets. The top panel or “rocker” shows the name of the club. The large centerpiece shows the club emblem or logo, and the bottom rocker shows the club’s home territory. A small rectangle with “MC” in it might or might not be present as well.
Riding club patches normally have just the large center emblem and sometimes a top rocker. A bottom rocker is not recommended for riding clubs. Some motorcycle clubs are quite territorial, and a bottom rocker could lead to misunderstandings.
The most important rule for non-motorcycle club members to remember is never pretend to be something you’re not. If you try to act like an actual member of a motorcycle club without being one, you’re likely to pay the consequences. Better to be yourself and follow proper patch etiquette at all times. And never – ever – wear motorcycle club patches if you are not a full member of the club.
Beyond the back patches, custom patches for jackets are less restricted. If you want to wear a flag patch, name patch, political statement or even a funny patch, you’re in good shape. You can put those just about anywhere on a jacket or vest.
It pays to get the best quality patches for your jackets. If you’re riding, the patches will be subjected to heat, rain, wind and other factors that can wear them down. Look to a supplier such as Patches 4 Less to give you the highest quality materials you can buy for all your custom patches. With sturdy backing twill and top-quality embroidery thread, well-made patches can last as long as the jacket they’re attached to. They also don’t cost any more than you’d pay for lesser patches from another supplier.
When it comes to custom patches for jackets, just follow the basics. Get good quality patches, be aware of the meanings patches can have, and enjoy the ride!
FAQs
100% Embroidered Patch Pricing
| Size | 100 | 200 |
|---|
| 2" | $1.70 | $1.00 |
| 2.5" | $1.97 | $1.36 |
| 3" | $2.29 | $1.56 |
| 3.5" | $2.61 | $1.97 |
As we've explained, you shouldn't wear a patch that belongs to another motorcycle club. Also, as a club member, you shouldn't wear a variant of MC patch that you haven't earned yet, i.e., a three-piece patch if you're not a full member.
Where is the best place to put a patch on a jacket? ›
Our favorites include sleeves, elbows, hemlines, collars, bag straps, and the rear of hats, so try something new and put your embroidered patches there. You'll create a surprising center point for your outfit or accessory.
How much does it cost to have a patch sewn on a jacket? ›
Patch sewing cost per patch is $5 for Small patches that are similar size to most Flags and up to $25 (or more, but most top out at $15) per patch for Center of back Patches depending on size, shape, and placement, and is available locally during retail store hours.
Why are patches so expensive? ›
Material and Thread Quality: Higher quality materials and threads will cost more, but they also result in a better and more durable patch.
What is the 3 patch rule? ›
The top patch has the name of the club, the center patch often carries the logo design of the club, and also the bottom rocker indicates the location of the club. A 3-piece patch is made use of to indicate that the club is not necessarily a 1% club which the American Bike Association has not approved.
Can anyone wear a 1% patch? ›
Don't Wear 1%er or Outlaw Patches
(Such clubs are sometimes referred to as “one-percenters.”) Wearing a 1%er or outlaw patch identifies you as a member of such a club. If you're not a member, sporting such patches can be extremely dangerous for a number of reasons.
What does 13 mean to bikers? ›
This number can be found alone or in conjunction with other symbols. There are three different definitions to what it means, the most common being associated with drugs and narcotics. The letter M, being the 13th letter of the alphabet, often is said to stand for marijuana or motorcycle.
What kind of jacket is best for patches? ›
Denim jackets are great candidates for decorating with patches. The tough cotton withstands the hot iron necessary for iron on patches while remaining easy to sew by hand. You can put patches on other jackets as well and the process is the same.
What do patches look good on? ›
Spruce Up Plain Clothes
For leather or denim jackets, break all the rules of uses for embroidered patches and go nuts with adding patches wherever you feel like it. For shirts, you may want to stick to the front only. For jeans or pants embroidery patch trends, choose the front pocket or near the hem are good spots.
Fabric adhesive is a convenient way to secure lightweight patches onto delicate materials. It's convenient for working with synthetics that aren't conducive to heat application. Unlike glue, it's permanent and is perfect if you don't have a heat or iron press.
What should be the first step when you patch clothes? ›
Prepare the fabric for your patches
The first step is to make sure our piece of fabric is large enough to cover the area you want to patch up. To calculate the ideal size, you will place the fabric over the hole you want to cover and mark the perimeter, leaving a some margin on each side.
Why aren't my iron-on patches sticking? ›
Ensure you're using a firm, even surface. Ironing boards and plastic surfaces have some give in them that don't provide the firm, even surface needed for successful results. Re-touch the material with heat for an additional 10-15 seconds.
How much does it cost to sew on military patches? ›
Likewise, Military bases (e.g. posts) can charge only $2.00 dollars to sew on patches due to quantities of scale. Law Enforcement can also use prison labor to also sew on these patches for free.
Are patches cheaper than embroidery? ›
What Is Cheaper, Embroidered Patches Or Direct Embroidery? In the long run, embroidered patches are significantly cheaper and are the most cost-effective option versus direct embroidery. You will be able to reuse your embroidered patch elsewhere, whereas with direct embroidery does not allow you to do so.
How much does it cost to get PVC patches made? ›
PVC PATCH PRICING
| 100 | 500 |
|---|
| 1" | $2.99 | $0.75 |
| 1.5" | $3.23 | $0.82 |
| 2" | $4.19 | $1.06 |
| 2.5" | $4.24 | $1.12 |
4 more rowsMultiple patterns and designs may be used using embroidered pattern designs. As compared to hand embroidery, with a machine embroidering patches takes less time to make an embroidered patch, which is almost half a day or 6 to 7 hours.
