Embroidered vs Woven Patches: Which Should You Choose?
Embroidered and woven patches are the two most popular types of fabric patch. They look similar from a distance, but they are made in different ways, and the right choice depends on your design. This guide explains the difference in simple terms.
How they are made
Embroidered patches are stitched. Thick thread is sewn onto a twill base, building up a raised, textured design. Woven patches are made on a loom. Fine threads are woven together so the design is the fabric itself, which gives a thin, flat and smooth patch.
Side by side
| Embroidered | Woven | |
|---|---|---|
| Look and feel | Raised, textured, classic | Flat, smooth, modern |
| Small text and fine lines | Needs bigger lettering | Holds fine detail well |
| Thickness | Thicker | Thinner and lighter |
| Colours | Solid thread colours | Solid thread colours |
| Best for | Bold logos, crests, uniforms, team badges | Detailed logos, small text, labels, caps |
| Minimum order | From 10 pieces | From 10 pieces |
When to choose embroidered
Choose embroidered patches when you want the classic badge look with texture you can feel. They suit bold logos, club crests, school and scout badges, workwear and jackets. For extra depth, 3D embroidered patches add raised puff stitching.
When to choose woven
Choose woven patches when your design has small text, thin lines or lots of detail. Because the yarn is much finer, lettering stays readable at small sizes where embroidery would blur it. As a guide, keep woven letters at least 2 mm high, or 3 mm for script fonts. Woven patches are also lighter and flatter, so they sit neatly on caps and thin fabrics.
What about photos and gradients?
Neither method can show smooth colour fades, because both use solid thread colours. A gradient becomes a few stepped bands. If your design is a photo or has gradients, choose printed patches or sublimated patches instead.
Backing and borders
Both types come with sew on, iron on and Velcro backing, plus merrowed, die cut or hot cut borders. Merrowed borders suit simple shapes such as circles, squares and shields. Read patch backing types explained to choose the right one.
Still not sure?
Upload your artwork on either product page and tell us what you plan to use the patch for. We send a free digital proof, so you can see how your design will look before anything is made.
Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, embroidered or woven?
It depends on size and detail. Woven is often better value for detailed designs, while embroidered can be better value for simple, bold logos.
Which lasts longer?
Both are durable and washable. Embroidered patches are thicker, while woven patches are tightly woven and keep their shape well.
Can woven patches have a merrowed border?
Yes, on simple shapes from 1.5 inches. For detailed outlines, choose a die cut or hot cut border.
Can I mix embroidery and print?
Yes. Our embroidery and printed patches combine stitched detail with a printed background.