Patch & Embroidery Guide

Patch & Embroidery Guide

Patches and embroidery are the main details that make a custom varsity jacket personal. You can use them to add names, numbers, initials, logos, mascots, team artwork, school details, brand designs, sleeve patches, chest patches, and large back designs.

Embroidery

Embroidery is created with stitched thread directly on the jacket or patch area. It is a great choice for names, logos, smaller artwork, sleeve text, chest text, and clean details. Embroidery gives your varsity jacket a premium stitched look and works well for both simple and detailed designs.

Best for:
Names
Numbers
Logos
Chest text
Sleeve text
Small artwork
Clean detailed designs

Chenille Patches

Chenille patches have a soft, raised, towel-like texture and are commonly used on classic letterman jackets. They are perfect for large letters, numbers, school initials, team patches, mascots, and bold varsity-style designs.

Best for:
Large varsity letters
School initials
Team patches
Numbers
Mascots
Classic letterman designs

Applique Patches

Applique uses fabric pieces stitched onto the jacket to create bold shapes, letters, or designs. It is a strong option for large back designs, oversized letters, and bold logo layouts.

Best for:
Large letters
Back designs
Bold logos
Statement patches
Streetwear designs

Printed or Woven Patch Style

For very detailed artwork, small text, gradients, or complex logos, a printed or woven-style patch may be recommended. This helps keep small artwork readable when embroidery or chenille is not the best option.

Best for:
Detailed logos
Small text
Complex artwork
Brand patches
Multi-color designs

Patch Placement Options

Popular patch placements include left chest, right chest, back center, upper sleeves, lower sleeves, cuffs, shoulders, and inside lining. Common custom layouts include a name on the chest, number on the sleeve, logo on the front, and large artwork on the back.

Choosing the Best Option

For a classic varsity look, choose chenille patches.
For clean names and logos, choose embroidery.
For bold streetwear designs, choose applique.
For detailed artwork, choose printed or woven patch style.

If you are not sure which option is best, send your design idea and we can recommend the best patch or embroidery method for your custom varsity jacket.