Patches are a common addition to any garment, particularly a jacket. But, how do you make sure your patches stay put? Sewing them on with a sewing machine is a fantastic way to attach your patches, as it provides a reliable hold that won’t come undone with general wear and tear. If you want to know how to easily sew patches onto a sleeve with a sewing machine, this guide will provide a helpful outline.
Tools You’ll Need
Before you can get started with the actual sewing process, you’ll need to assemble the tools you need. First and foremost, you’ll need a sewing machine. You’ll also need some matching thread, a pair of scissors, and the patch you’re attaching. You can also use a sewing machine needle, but this isn’t essential. Finally, you’ll need some sort of stabiliser or stiffening agent, as this will help ensure your patches stay properly secured. This can be anything from a piece of lightweight fabric to an iron-on backing.
Step One: Preparation
Once you have all the necessary tools, the first step is to prepare the patch. If it’s an iron-on patch, you’ll want to make sure it’s properly attached before moving onto the next step. Otherwise, you’ll need to find the right stabiliser that best suits your needs. Whatever you choose, the stabiliser should be applied to the wrong side of the patch before you move onto the next step.
Step Two: Positioning
Now that the patch is prepped, you’ll need to position it on the sleeve where you want it. It’s important to note that the patch should be positioned a few centimetres away from the outer edge of the sleeve, as this will help avoid any potential bulkiness that can occur with the patch’s stitches. Once you’re happy with the positioning of the patch, you can move onto the next step.
Step Three: Sewing
The next step is to begin the actual sewing process. Before you start, make sure your thread is properly attached to your machine’s bobbin and that your machine is set to the correct seam strength. You also want to use a matching thread colour to avoid any obvious stitching. Once you have done this, you are ready to start the sewing process. You’ll want to start at the centre of the patch and slowly move outward, following the contours of the patch. You’ll also want to keep a consistent tension on the thread while sewing.
Step Four: Finishing
Once you’ve finished sewing, you’re almost finished. All that’s left is to tie off the thread and trim any excess fabric or thread. Make sure to tie off the thread securely, as this will ensure that it holds properly. If desired, you can also sew a few stitches over the area you tied off and any other areas that need extra reinforcement. And voila! You have now successfully sewn a patch onto a sleeve.
Alternate Methods
Although sewing a patch to a sleeve is effective, it’s not the only way to attach patches. You can also opt to use adhesive or iron-on backing, although these methods are not as reliable as using a sewing machine. Adhesive patches are also not as aesthetically pleasing, and can easily come off in the washing machine. However, if you’re looking for a no-sew option, this may be the right solution for you.
Additional Considerations
When sewing patches onto a sleeve, there are a few additional considerations that you should be aware of. Firstly, you’ll need to make sure the patch is appropriate for the type of fabric you’re working with. Different fabrics can require different types of stabilisers and thread weights, so it’s best to investigate this before you begin the process. Additionally, be sure to check the tension and stitch length on your sewing machine, as this will ensure you get a secure stitch.
Laundering Patched Sleeves
Once the patch is attached, the next step is to consider how you’re going to launder it. The best option is always to hand-wash the garment, as this helps ensure the patch won’t be damaged in the wash. However, if you need to use a washing machine, try to place the garment in a garment bag or on a gentle cycle to avoid any potential damage. You’ll also want to use a gentle detergent and avoid any fabric softeners that might possibly degrade the patch.
Gathering Necessary Materials And Sewing Patches By Hand
If you don’t have access to a sewing machine or prefer to sew by hand, you can still accomplish the same task. You’ll still need the same tools, plus a needle and thread, and a thimble can be used to help make the process easier. When hand-sewing patches onto sleeves, take your time, as this helps ensure that the stitches are secure and even. When you’re finished, it’s also important to test the seam strength by gently tugging on it, as this can help make sure the patch is properly secured.
Choosing Patches
Before you can begin sewing patches onto sleeves, you’ll first need to choose the right patch for the job. If you want a patch that won’t come off easily or fray, opt for a thicker patch that is made of durable material. Embroidered patches are a great option, as they provide a securely-attached patch that wont come off with regular wear and tear. Additionally, it’s also important to choose a patch that won’t blemish the garment you’re working with. If needed, you can use a piece of scrap fabric to test its colourfastness.
Troubleshooting
There are a few things you can do if your patch seems to be coming away from its stitches. Firstly, if you used an adhesive or iron-on backing, make sure it’s properly attached to the fabric. You may also need to replace your thread or needle if they have become frayed or weakened. If the patch continues to come away, the best thing to do is to carefully unpick the stitches and then start over using a new stabiliser and thread.
Adding Personal Touches To Patched Sleeves
Once your patch has been attached, you can start getting creative with your sleeve. If you want, you can also add additional decorative details around the patch. This can include anything from embroidery to appliqué to ribbon trim. Whatever you choose to do, make sure it complements the patch and is firmly attached to the sleeve.
Making Your Own Patches
For those who are feeling particularly creative, you can also make your own patches. Making patches is an easy and hugely satisfying task, whether you want to make an iron-on patch or an embroidered one. You’ll need some fabric, stabiliser, templates and scissors, as well as a sewing needle and thread, if you’re making an embroidered patch. With these materials, you can create your own unique patch designs, making it a great way to inject some personal style into your garments.
Final Thoughts
Sewing patches onto sleeves is a straightforward and cost-effective way to add personality and interest to any garment. With the right tools and a bit of practice, you can easily add patches to any sleeve without needing a professional. Whether you opt to use a sewing machine or sew by hand, you can be sure your patch will stay securely in place with even just a few stitches.
