How to Sew a Patch, The Correct Way by Hand or Machine
Learn how to sew a patch by hand or with a sewing machine to repair holes, tears, and worn areas in clothing. Patches can be practical and almost invisible, or you can use contrasting fabrics and decorative stitches to make the repair part of the design. This tutorial shows you how to sew a patch over or underneath a hole, attach a patch or badge by hand, machine sew a durable patch, and use iron-on patches when you need a no-sew option.
How to Sew a Patch (Quick Guide)
The easiest way to sew a patch is to place it over the damaged area and stitch securely around the edges by hand or machine. Cut the patch slightly larger than the hole so you are stitching into strong, undamaged fabric. For a less visible repair, you can also place the patch underneath the hole and stitch around the damaged area.
- Trim loose threads around the hole or tear.
- Cut a patch larger than the damaged area.
- Position the patch over the hole and pin or baste it in place.
- Sew around the edge by hand using running stitch, whip stitch, or blanket stitch, or use a sewing machine with straight or zigzag stitch.
- Secure the thread ends and trim any excess threads.
What is a Sewing Patch?
A sewing patch is a piece of fabric or material used to mend or reinforce damaged areas on garments, upholstery, or other fabric items. Patches can serve a functional purpose, such as covering holes, rips, or worn sections, or a decorative one, adding flair or personalization. Available in various shapes, sizes, and materials, sewing patches are typically affixed by using thread to stitch them onto the target fabric. This tutorial will show you how to sew a patch or badge for beginners as well as give you a no-sew option.
How to Sew a Patch: 4 Easy Methods
There are several methods of adding patches to different articles of clothing. Sewing by hand, machine sewing, or a little bit of a cheat method with bonding glue.
However, the best methods, the lasting ones, require a needle and thread for a secure and strong patch. Hand sewing with decorative thread adds a little bit of flair, while machine sewing is sturdy and long-lasting.
Method 1 – How to Sew a Patch by Hand
Sewing a patch by hand offers numerous advantages, including greater control and precision, especially for complex or delicate fabrics. It allows for fine adjustments that machines can’t easily make, ensuring the patch aligns perfectly with the damaged area.
Here are some tips and ways to sew patches by hand.
Neaten the Fabric Edges
Preparation is important. Examine the tear or the hole and neaten the area trimming away torn edges.
Cut the Patch Out
Choose your patch fabric. You may like a contrast for effect, or you may like to blend in and use the same fabric to avoid seeing the patch. If there is a pattern or pile on the garment, look a the patch that works with the garment fabric and not against it.
Cut out a shape if you intend to patch with a shape. A heart or square, for example, can turn an ugly hole into a fashionable statement.
You can also buy patches or badges in endless shapes and motifs if you don’t want to make your own.
Reinforce the Fabric
Lightweight fabrics may need some backing or a double layer of the fabric to make a more substantial patch on areas, Iike the knees and elbows.
Use some bonding with fusible webbing before sewing on the patch. Bonding is also useful to secure the patch before sewing. Thicker fabrics like denim don’t usually need a backing.
Hand Sew Around the Patch
Pin the patch in place and then hand sew around the edge.
Hand sewn patches look good with decorative embroidery stitches. Blanket stitch, whip stitch or small running stitches add charm and decorative finishes.
See how these patches are sewn on the right side of the fabric. Read how to applique. The easiest stitch to use to sew a patch is the up and down running stitch. You can see how this looks on the heart below.
How to Sew a Patch Underneath
Sewing the patch underneath is known as reverse appliqué patchwork. The hole or damaged area is cut into a shape or cut-out area, and the fabric is placed underneath. Stitching is done on the main garment top catching in the fabric below.
- The patch is laid underneath the cut-out area.
- The outline of the cut out pattern is stitched on the right side, while the patch is attached to the wrong side of the garment.
- Decorative stitches using embroidery thread make this style of patchwork look very pleasing to the eye. The actual patch is serving its purpose from underneath the tear or torn part of the fabric.
- Useful hand stitches include blanket stitch, running stitch and backstitch.
Both types of hand-sewn patches can be done in contrast fabrics. Use decorative thread and add a touch of whimsy with sequins, buttons and bows added to the patched area.
Method 2 – How to Sew a Patch by Machine
Machine sewn patches are more secure and longer-lasting. When there is a seriously worn or torn garment in your sewing bundle, you will want to fix it so it lasts. A machine-sewn patch is the best tough-love approach for this project.
How to Sew a Patch on the Outside
Prepare your patch in the same way as a hand-sewn patch.
- Neaten the edges of the hole
- Place the patch over the hole.
- Thinner fabrics may benefit from some bonding webbing or interfacing to stop further damage.
For a simple, quick and easy repair, use a zig-zag machine stitch and set the stitch length and width to give a close stitch to hold and neaten the edges.
Here are some examples of zig-zag settings.
You can try other machine stitches for a decorative effect. Fusing the patch to the fabric and following with some over stitching works well as a machined patch repair.
How to Sew a Set-In Patch with a Machine
A set-in patch gives a very professional finish and is recommended if you want to machine the patch for a longer-lasting option. Knee patches and elbow patches work well with a set in patch.
- Trim around the hole or tear and cut a neat square shape. Use your scissors to snip into each corner. Make your snip about 1/4” to 1/2” (6-12mm) to allow you to turn the edges around the square under from the right side to the wrong side of the tear.
- Press the turned edges under. When repairing jeans, you may want to leave the edges raw and scruffy as it can be part of the look.
- Cut a square patch of matching or contrasting fabric that is 1/2” (12mm) larger than the hole. You could fuse the patch with a bonding web or cut double fabric for extra strength.
- Place the prepared patch piece under the cut hole in the garment. The patch will be right sides up, and it will fit underneath.
- Secure the patch with some basting stitches or pin in place, ready to machine stitch around the edges. Now you are ready to hem the patch in place. As you can see in the photos below, you can stitch neatly around the outside or reinforce with stitches going across the hole. Use a straight stitch or a zig-zag stitch.
You can turn a hole or tear in a garment into something creative. Embroidery stitches with colorful threads are an obvious choice.
Patches made of felt are also a good decorative idea. Felt can be cut and stitched onto different parts of clothing. Felt does not fray, so is perfect for a patch. Further Reading: Sewing Felt
Method 3 – How to Sew a Badge Patch
Badges are always popular and, in some cases, are earned for some achievement. The wearer wants to show off their badges on their clothing.
Make your own badges too, or buy motifs to sew on and decorate any type of clothing. Denim jackets and jeans do well with patches and badges sewn on.
How to Sew a Badge:
- Thread a needle with a double thread and knot the end. Use a matching thread color to the edge of the patch. (How to thread a needle)
- Insert the needle at the back of the fabric and come up on the edge of the patch.
- Put the needle back down at the edge of the border.
- Continue sewing over and over the border with around 1/8 to 1/4 between stitches. (3-6mm). This over and over stitch is called a whip stitch. More experienced sewers may use a blanket stitch.
- Finish with the needle at the back of the fabric. Take a small stitch and put the needle through the loop before it is pulled tight. This is called knotting off.
Method 4 – No-Sew Options, Iron-On Patches
If you can’t sew your patch, then iron-on patches are a good alternative.
- Trim back the messy edges and then place the patch glue side down on the top of the fabric.
- Use your iron on the recommended settings to adhere to the badge.
- It is a good idea to put a pressing cloth in between the patch and your fabric so nothing melts. Most patches are made from synthetic fibers. Some brands of patches come with a piece of tissue to use.
What Stitch Is Best for Sewing on a Patch?
The best stitch depends on the type of patch and the look you want. Whip stitch is one of the easiest choices for attaching a patch by hand because it securely catches the edge. Running stitch is quick and simple, while blanket stitch creates a decorative border. When using a sewing machine, a zigzag stitch works well for raw-edged fabric patches because it helps prevent fraying. A straight stitch is suitable for patches with finished or folded edges.
Why Use a Patch?
Patches can repair holes and worn areas while extending the life of clothing. They’re especially useful for knees and elbows that receive lots of wear. Decorative patches and badges can also personalize jackets, jeans, bags, uniforms, and children’s clothing. Instead of trying to disguise a repair, contrasting fabric and embroidery can turn the patched area into a deliberate design feature known as visible mending.
How to Sew a Patch FAQs
Yes. Patches are easy to sew by hand using running stitch, whip stitch, blanket stitch, or backstitch. Hand sewing is particularly useful for small patches and areas that are difficult to reach with a sewing machine.
Running stitch is the easiest for beginners. For a more secure edge, use whip stitch. Blanket stitch is another good option when you want the stitching to become a decorative feature.
Either method works. Placing a patch over the hole completely covers the damaged area, while placing it underneath allows the patch fabric to show through the hole. An underneath patch can create a more subtle or decorative repair.
Cut the patch at least ½ inch (12 mm) larger than the damaged area on all sides. For badly worn fabric, make the patch larger so the stitches are anchored into strong fabric.
Sewing generally produces a more durable attachment, particularly on clothing that is washed frequently. Iron-on patches are quicker and easier, and you can stitch around their edges afterward for extra security.
In Conclusion
Learning how to sew a patch is an easy way to repair holes, reinforce worn fabric, and extend the life of your clothing. For beginners, hand sewing with running stitch or whip stitch is usually the simplest method, while a sewing machine and zigzag stitch are ideal when you need a strong, durable repair. Patches don’t have to be invisible either. Contrasting fabrics, felt shapes, colorful thread, and decorative embroidery stitches can turn a simple repair into a feature.
Author - Luisa Clare
Luisa Clare is the founder of Treasurie, a sewing and crochet education platform offering step-by-step tutorials and printable patterns. With over 15 years of experience in dressmaking, pattern design, crochet, and craft education, she specialises in teaching beginners through clear, easy-to-follow lessons. Her tutorials and patterns are used by home sewists and crocheters worldwide to build practical skills and confidence. Learn more about Luisa and Treasurie.
Hi!
WoW! Thank you for sharing your expertise and making the art of sewing on patches accessible to everyone.😍
Cheers 😇
I’ve read your blog. It was really fantastic and the way you described it is also professional. Will love to read your incoming blogs too, really appreciate your work and dedication.
I make patches with linocut artwork on them for folks to use in mending or for decoration. I’ve been looking for an all-inclusive tutorial for people to reference for the different ways to sew them on. Thank you!!!
Thanks for sharing this.