How to Sew on a Name Patch

How to Sew on a Name Patch

Adding a name patch to your work clothes or team uniform is an easy sewing project, even for the beginner sewer. If you can master threading a needle and sewing a running stitch, then you will have the skills needed to personalize your work or team shirts with name patches.

Step1: Examine your patch to determine whether it has been treated with a heat-activated adhesive. If so, you can make use of this to help reinforce your stitching by applying it following the manufacturer's instructions.

Step 2: Determine the proper placement of your name patch. If this is for a work uniform, your company may have specific guidelines to follow. Typically, name patches are placed on the right side of the front of the shirt.

Step 3: Pin the patch in place. You may use straight pins but if you will be sewing on the go, safety pins may offer a more secure option.

Step 4: Check that the patch is level by trying on your shirt with it pinned on. The hem of your shirt should not look wavy or shortened.

Step 5: Thread your needle with a double length of matching thread. It is best to match the thread to the color of the border of the patch.

Step 6: Insert the needle behind the patch and pull it through to the front. This will conceal your knot between the patch and the right side of your shirt, creating a neat appearance front and back.

Step 7: Sew a running stitch next to the border of your patch. You can gather a number of stitches on your needle before pulling the thread through to make a quick job of your patch application.

Step 8: Sew over the border of the patch by inserting your needle into the fabric of the shirt and drawing it through to the opposite side of the right side of the patch. This stitch offers a more secure hold.

Step 9: Tie off your thread after you sew on your patch. You can take a backstitch into your patch and draw the needle between the patch and the shirt before tying it off to hide your knot.

• You can keep your thread from tangling by applying a thin layer of beeswax to it before you start sewing. This product is available in small blocks at your local fabric store.
• Avoid using decorative metallic threads or rayon thread when stitching your patch. These threads will not provide as secure a hold on the patch as a 50/50 cotton polyester blend.