Fabric Class //
Non-Woven Fabric
Non-woven fabric is a flexible fabric that is used in "everyday" patches. It's a good fabric to use if you plan to have a certain backing added to your patch (i.e. Heat Seal or Plastic backing).
Buckram Fabric
Buckram fabric is more rigid. It's used with items that don't have a backing. Buckram is also good for items that need to be fireproofed - rayon thread and buckram backing can be treated with flame retardant.
Thread Class //
Polyester Threads
Polyester Thread is far and away the most popular thread for general sewing and embroidery. It is a very strong economical thread. Polyester thread won't fade or shrink in the wash - it's often used for industrial laundry and is less likely to bleed. The luster, or sheen, of polyester thread falls between that of cotton and rayon. A medium luster thread, it is suitable for almost any sewing project. Polyester threads do have some give or stretch to them.
Rayon Threads
Rayon Thread is currently the most popular thread used in embroidery machines. It performs consistently well in high-speed embroidery machines with very little breaking or fraying. Rayon is a high sheen thread, and often used as a lower cost alternative to silk thread. Stitches sewn with Rayon thread create a very smooth consistent stitch, leading to a higher quality embroidery project. It is also good for items that need to be fireproofed. Rayon thread is not generally colorfast. It is best to avoid using any bleaching agents, including those made for colors.
Attachments Class //
Button Loop
An extra bit of thread made into a loop at the top of a patch so that you can hang the patch from a button. Great for scout and camp uniforms.
Velcro
Velcro allows you to remove a patch from a garment before you wash it to save unnecessary wear and tear - great for uniforms that get washed and worn on a regular basis. Velcro is often used for military patches.
Backing Session //
Plastic
Plastic Backing makes the patch sturdy and adds durability. With plastic backing you can add years of wear and tear. Patches with Plastic Backing need to be sewn on but can still be removed and sewn on to other garments without fear of losing patch structure.
Heat Seal
Heat Seal backing allows a patch to be ironed on to a garment. Once ironed on, the patch will remain in place permanently. Great for those that don't have time to sew on a patch.
Pressure Adhesive
A patch with pressure adhesive can be compared to a sticker. Just peel off the backing and stick the patch to any clean surface for a secure (non-permanent) hold. Pressure Adhesive patches can be used multiple times. You can also sew on a Pressure Adhesive patch to get a permanent hold.
Border Session //
Merrow
The merrow border is the standard patch border you'll see on most patches. Sometimes called overlock, the merrow border is good for larger simple shapes: circles, shields, ovals, etc.
Hot Knife Cut
The hot knife cut is a smooth stitched border. It's good for patches with complex shapes or detailed borders.
Fabric Cut
A cut fabric border means there is no stitching on the edge of the patch.
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