A patch is a small piece of fabric that carries large meaning. A military unit patch identifies a soldier’s assignment, and A fire department patch signals rank and station. A company patch on a cap turns an employee into a brand ambassador.
At Northwest Custom Apparel, we have been producing custom patches since 1977. We embroider them on our Tajima TMAR-KC 8-head machine, and cut with precision lasers. We finish them with merrowed borders or satin edges. Every step happens in our facility at 2025 Freeman Rd E in Milton, Washington. We do not outsource production to third-party decorators.
We have manufactured patches for Boeing, military units at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, fire departments across Pierce County, and businesses in Seattle, Tacoma, and throughout Washington. We understand that a patch is not decoration. It is identity.
The bigger the order, the better the savings
Need it faster? Rush orders available.
If we miss your deadline, you don’t pay
See and approve your logo before full production.
Our most requested patch type. Thread is stitched onto twill or felt backing to create a textured, durable design. Embroidered patches withstand washing, abrasion, and outdoor exposure.
We digitize your design using Wilcom EmbroideryStudio software. Our Tajima machine runs at 1,100 RPM with 15 needles per head. A standard 3-inch patch with 8,000 stitches takes 8 to 12 minutes to produce per head.
For the full production process, see our article on how custom patches are made.
Woven patches use thinner thread than embroidery, allowing finer detail and smaller text. The surface is flat and smooth, not raised.
Woven patches are ideal for designs that embroidery cannot reproduce cleanly. A 0.25-inch text line that would sew shut on an embroidered patch remains readable on a woven patch.
Full-color ink is printed directly onto fabric backing. No thread. No stitch count limits. Photographic detail is possible.
Printed patches are our fastest option. They are less durable than embroidered patches for heavy-wash applications but ideal for event merchandise and promotional items.
Molded polyvinyl chloride patches are waterproof, flexible, and nearly indestructible. Colors are layered during molding, not printed or stitched.
PVC patches are standard for military and law enforcement gear. They survive salt water, extreme temperatures, and chemical exposure.
We engrave leather and synthetic materials with a precision laser. The result is a debossed or cut-through design with clean edges and permanent marking.
For full specifications and design requirements, see our laser engraved patches page.
Our leather patches are perfect for various caps, such as trucker back hats. These patches are carefully crafted and engraved to your specifications, creating an exceptional product with your company logo. The standard size of these patches is up to 9 square inches or a maximum of 3″x3″.
Our leather patches are constructed from top-grade leather with various finishes, such as natural and black, to accommodate any hat style. These patches can be personalized with your logo or design, providing a unique and distinguished look.
Enhance your brand identity with custom patches from Northwest Custom Apparel. Contact us today to start designing your custom patches and see the difference high-quality, unique patches can make for your team, brand, or promotional event.
How your patch attaches to the garment is as important as the patch itself.
| Backing Type | Attachment Method | Best For | Durability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sew-on | Stitch directly to fabric | Permanent application, uniforms, dress garments | Highest |
| Heat seal / iron-on | Industrial heat press | Workwear, caps, casual garments | High |
| Velcro / hook and loop | Press or sew loop side to garment | Military, tactical, JBLM units, removable patches | Very high |
| Pressure sensitive | Peel and stick | Temporary use, promotional items, display | Moderate |
| Plastic | Sew or adhesive | Collectible caps, shape retention, rigid display | Shape-retaining |
Patch borders enhance the overall appearance and durability of your custom patches by preventing fraying and adding a defining line to your design. We offer three standard options:
A classic overlock stitch wraps around the patch edge. Slightly raised, traditional, highly durable. Best for standard shapes: circles, ovals, squares, shields.
A flat, clean edge created by laser cutting. Modern, precise. Works with any shape including complex die-cut outlines.
Our laser cutter handles intricate outlines: state shapes, animal silhouettes, logos with protrusions. If your design requires a non-standard shape, we can produce it.
Our custom patches are versatile and suitable for various applications. They are perfect for branding, team identity, and promotional items. Customize patches for:
Eye-catching patches for giveaways and promotional events.
To produce your patch efficiently, we need:
If your design is not yet production-ready, our Art Director Steve Deland can refine it. See our logo design principles for apparel patches for guidance on creating patch-friendly designs.
For a comprehensive guide to patch types, backing, and care, see our custom embroidered patches guide.
| Patch Type | Standard Turnaround | Rush Available? | Minimum Order |
|---|---|---|---|
| Embroidered | 10 business days | Yes, 5 days | 100 pieces |
| Woven | 10 business days | Yes, 5 days | 100 pieces |
| Printed | 72 hours | Yes, same-day | No minimum |
| PVC | 2 to 3 weeks | Limited | 100 pieces |
| Laser engraved | 10 business days | Yes, 3 to 5 days | 50 pieces |
Remember, The countdown to your delivery date starts when you approve your proof, not when you place the order. So, don’t delay in approving your proof if you’re working on a fixed schedule. Timely approval ensures your order stays on track!
Once your digital proof is approved, it typically takes about 10 business days to ship your order, but this can vary based on the size and complexity of your order.
Pricing depends on size, stitch count (for embroidered), color count, backing type, and quantity. We provide detailed quotes within one business day of receiving your design file.
The price per unit decreases as the quantity increases. So, you’ll save money on considering a large order. For example, ordering 500 patches can cut the price by as much as 40%!
For our local history and Tacoma-area patch services, see embroidered patches in Tacoma.
| Equipment | Function | Specification |
|---|---|---|
| Tajima TMAR-KC | Multi-head embroidery | 8 heads, 1,100 RPM, 15 needles per head |
| Wilcom EmbroideryStudio | Digitizing software | Converts vector art to stitch files |
| Laser cutter | Patch separation and shape cutting | Precision intricate outlines |
| Merrow machine | Border finishing | Overlock stitch application |
| Fusing machine | Backing application | Heat and pressure bond |
| Size | 25-49 | 50-99 | 100-199 | 200-299 | 300-499 | 500-999 | 1000-1999 | 2000-4999 | 5000-9999 | 10000+ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Up to 1″ | $2.20 | $1.91 | $1.41 | $1.01 | $0.86 | $0.74 | $0.65 | $0.59 | $0.54 | $0.49 |
| 1.01-1.50″ | $2.77 | $2.41 | $1.78 | $1.27 | $1.09 | $0.93 | $0.82 | $0.74 | $0.68 | $0.61 |
| 1.51-2.00″ | $3.87 | $3.37 | $2.49 | $1.78 | $1.52 | $1.30 | $1.14 | $1.03 | $0.95 | $0.86 |
| 2.01-2.50″ | $4.97 | $4.32 | $3.19 | $2.29 | $1.95 | $1.67 | $1.47 | $1.33 | $1.21 | $1.10 |
| 2.51-3.00″ | $6.07 | $5.28 | $3.90 | $2.79 | $2.38 | $2.03 | $1.79 | $1.62 | $1.48 | $1.34 |
| 3.01-3.5″ | $7.17 | $6.23 | $4.60 | $3.30 | $2.81 | $2.40 | $2.12 | $1.91 | $1.75 | $1.59 |
| 3.51-4.00″ | $8.28 | $7.19 | $5.31 | $3.81 | $3.24 | $2.77 | $2.44 | $2.21 | $2.02 | $1.83 |
| 4.01-4.50″ | $9.38 | $8.15 | $6.02 | $4.31 | $3.67 | $3.14 | $2.77 | $2.50 | $2.29 | $2.08 |
| 4.51-5.00” | $10.48 | $9.10 | $6.72 | $4.82 | $4.10 | $3.51 | $3.09 | $2.80 | $2.56 | $2.32 |
| 5.01-6.00″ | $12.13 | $10.54 | $7.78 | $5.58 | $4.75 | $4.06 | $3.58 | $3.24 | $2.96 | $2.69 |
| 6.01-7.00″ | $14.33 | $12.45 | $9.19 | $6.59 | $5.61 | $4.80 | $4.23 | $3.82 | $3.50 | $3.17 |
| 7.01-8.00″ | $16.53 | $14.36 | $10.61 | $7.60 | $6.48 | $5.54 | $4.88 | $4.41 | $4.04 | $3.66 |
| 8.01-9.00″ | $18.73 | $16.27 | $12.02 | $8.62 | $7.34 | $6.28 | $5.53 | $5.00 | $4.57 | $4.15 |
| 9.01-10.00″ | $20.93 | $18.19 | $13.43 | $9.63 | $8.20 | $7.01 | $6.18 | $5.59 | $5.11 | $4.64 |
| 10.01-11.00” | $23.13 | $20.10 | $14.84 | $10.64 | $9.06 | $7.75 | $6.83 | $6.17 | $5.65 | $5.12 |
| 11.01-12.00″ | $25.34 | $22.01 | $16.26 | $11.65 | $9.93 | $8.49 | $7.48 | $6.76 | $6.19 | $5.61 |
Price Includes: Pressure sensitive, low melt and heat seal backing
Hear from our satisfied clients who have made us their go-to provider for personalized patches and have seen the difference quality makes.
We have produced custom patches for Washington businesses and organizations since 1977. Every patch is manufactured in-house at our Milton, WA facility.
Call: 253-922-5793 | Toll-free: 1-800-851-3671
Email: sales@nwcustomapparel.com
Visit: 2025 Freeman Rd E, Milton, WA 98354
The cost of custom patches varies based on size, quantity, and design complexity. At NW Custom Apparel, we offer competitive pricing and discounts for larger orders. Contact us for a detailed quote.
Step 1. Choose the patch shape, color, and size that fit your needs.
Step 2. Upload your artwork or logo to create a truly personalized patch. Our experts will help you to refine and finalize your design.
Step 3. Place your order, approve the digital proof, and leave the fulfillment to us. Your custom patches will be delivered to your door.
When designing your custom patch, consider the type of patch, the level of detail, the backing option, and the border type. Also, think about the intended application to ensure the design meets your needs.
Our standard turnaround time is 10 business days from the approval of the digital proof. Timely approval of the proof ensures your patches are delivered on schedule.
Our minimum order quantity is usually around 100 units. Ordering higher quantities reduces the cost per patch and benefits future turnaround times and pricing.
We offer a variety of custom patches including embroidered, woven, printed, PVC, and sublimation patches. Each type is designed to meet different needs and preferences, whether you’re looking for durability, intricate detail, or vibrant colors.
Custom patches are a versatile and durable way to enhance your brand identity, team spirit, or promotional efforts. They are ideal for various applications such as uniforms, outdoor gear, caps, t-shirts, and promotional items.
Additional costs may include metallic thread, extra colors beyond the standard six, and Velcro backing. These add-ons enhance the appearance and functionality of your patches but come at an extra cost.
Our service area for customized patches covers the heart of the South Sound and the greater Seattle metro area. Whether you are a small business in Puyallup or a major corporation in downtown Seattle, our local expertise ensures your project is handled with care.
