Do you want to show off your skills at summer camp or your favorite bands on your jacket sleeve?Iron-on patches are a great way to express your individuality, and they're also useful for hiding damaged or torn spots on your clothes and accessories.Make sure the fabric stays in place after washing by learning how to iron it on.
Step 1: Take the time to figure out what patch you have.
Some patches come with glue on the back, while others have a cloth backing.Take a close look at your patch and make a decision.The fabric patches are usually thick, stiff and have something on one side.They can be used to cover ripped or discolored fabric.There is a non-glossy paper side to transfer paper patches.These can't hold ripped fabric together and usually the fabric underneath will show through if it's not applied to something white.There are patches that have a cloth backing.A paper backing is pulled off before a patch is applied to cover up holes or stains.If you can't find a patch you like, consider designing your own.
Step 2: Take a look at the fabric of your accessory.
The best fabrics for iron-on patches are denim and cotton.The fabric you choose should be at least as heavy as the patch.Look at the care label to see if it can be ironed.If there isn't a label, try to figure out what it's made of.If you apply the high heat necessary for ironing on patches, it can burn the fabric or cause it to get discolored.Silk and other delicate fabrics can't be used for patches.The yarn of the patches is very sensitive to high temperatures.
Step 3: Think about placement.
Put out your jacket, sash or backpack and decide where you want the patch to be placed.Put this patch in a prominent position if you intend to iron it on this piece.The placement should look intentional.If you're planning on ironing on more patches, like you would for a girl scout's sash or any other type of collection, plan ahead to make sure there will be room for additional patches.Remember that letters and other asymmetrical items will appear reversed if you are using a paper patch.
Step 4: The base item should be placed on a heat- resistant surface.
If you don't have an ironing board, you can lay your item across a doubled-up bath towel on a table.To get a good surface for the patch, iron it first.If it's a backpack that is difficult to iron, arrange it so that the part of the fabric that will be receiving the patch is flat against a hard surface.
Step 5: The patch should be in the position you chose.
The base fabric should be flat against the adhesive side.The patch should not be crooked.The underside of embroidered patches is the glue.There is a side where the image is printed on transfer paper patches.The fabric has an image face on it.Once the patch is on, the paper backing will be peeled.The backing of the web should be against the fabric.You may need to apply the patch to the reverse side of the article of clothing if you're using a patch meant to blend in with fabric.Follow the instructions in the package.
Step 6: Get an iron.
It's time to turn it to the hottest setting you can tolerate.Make sure the steam option is turned off, and that the iron isn't full of water.
Step 7: A thin towel is placed over the patch.
Don't disturb the position of the patch.The patch will be protected by a towel.
Step 8: Put the iron over the patch.
For about 15 seconds, hold the iron there.Press down firmly and apply as much pressure as you can.
Step 9: Allow the patch to cool before removing the iron.
If the patch is fixed securely by rubbing at the edge with a finger, you should be able to lift the towel.Remove the towel and press it with the iron for 10 seconds if it lifts up a bit.Carefully peel off the paper if you are working with a paper transfer patch.
Step 10: It's a good idea to sew around the edges.
If you want a completely secure patch, use a sewing machine or a needle and thread.The chances of the patch falling off are greatly reduced by this.Pick a thread that matches the patch.Don't try to sew around the edge of the paper patches.
Step 11: Don't wash the article too much.
Over time, iron-on patches become loosened.Since washing may cause the patch to start coming off, take care not to let the article get too dirty.If you have to wash the item, use cold water.Allow it to dry.