Difference Between EMB Patch and Felt Patches

1200 by 628 pixels size featured image with yellow background showing side by side comparison of emb patch on left BARBIE in pink thread, 1911 KAPPA ALPHA PSI double felt red chenille yarn embroidered on the right

Embroidered and felt patches are more common today than ever. Depending on the clothing a person wears, they have different features. This blog will mention some pros and cons so you can choose wisely.

side by side comparison of emb vs felt patch showing left version as felt and emb on the right with title showing difference in bottom and embpatches.com official logo in bottom right

In this blog, we will compare both types mainly in two concepts:

  • Objective
  • Implementation/Execution

Key Features & Differences Between Felt & EMB Patch

light greyed background image showing two custom patches with features differentiating for emb and felt with title and features on the top and bottom

Let’s start by comparing both variants side by side, including placement, features, and backing.

Objective Comparison

#1 Thread: Embroidery patches use satin threads on the machine. They are mostly “Viscose.” Viscose is a premium-quality thread mainly used for export badges and monograms.

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Felt patches use the same thread as regular patches, while acrylic yarn is used for chenille patches.

#2 Looks: Embroidery patches appear flat. However, they feel aroused when touched.

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Felt patches feel the same unless yarn is embroidered over them.

#3 Backer: Embroidered patches use cotton twill as a backer under the machine.

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As the name suggests, felt itself acts as a backer. It is a different kind of fabric, unknitted and made of synthetic fibers.

#4 Uses: Embroidery patches are the most used type of patch in the custom patch family. They can be used as company logos, brand names, text/fonts, and mascots.

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Felt patches differ mainly when the felt is shown off behind embroidery or left with a 3–4mm border edge.

Execution Comparison

three preview window image of a felt made chenille emboridered patch shows, raw image from the left, digitized version in middle and actual sew out finish patch in 10 inches big on the most right window
10″ Chenille felt patch: raw image, digitized version, and finished patch.

#1 Making: Embroidery patches use cotton twill as a base fabric with woven/unwoven fusing under it. Once the embroidery design is completed, the fabric is removed from the embroidery machine, applied with adhesive backing, and cut off using a soldering iron.

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Felt is also used as the base fabric for a felt patch. After the stitches and adhesive backing are completed, the patch is laser cut using a CNC laser machine for sharp, attractive edges.

#2 Durability: Embroidery patches are less durable because their backer is made of cotton twill.

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Felt patches can be more durable. They are made using natural fibers such as wool or animal fur. Alternatively, synthetic fibers, such as petroleum-based acrylic, can also be used for durability.

#3 Customization: Personalization is the hallmark of embroidery patches. It offers full control over designing anything in shape, style, and size.

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Felt patches can also be customized; however, their design options might be more limited compared to embroidery patches.

STILL THIRSTY TO KNOW MORE?

Although we covered all the ingredient types and key differences, there might be more depending on the design/logo type. If you want to know what patch best suits your logo, connect with team EMB Patches. Our experienced designers and execution team would love to hear from you. We offer all tiny stuff related to custom embroidery patches with free-of-charge proofs, shipping, and handling across America.

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