PVC and rubber patches
PVC patches are moulded, not stitched. Liquid rubber is poured into a die and cured, which means the patch is waterproof, does not fray, holds a sharper edge than thread ever will, and can be built up in layers so the artwork is physically raised.
2D or 3D
2D is flat: colours sit side by side at one height, like a moulded sticker. 3D steps the layers so the logo stands above the field — usually two or three levels. 3D reads better at a distance and costs more, because each level is another mould operation.
Where PVC beats thread
- Anything that gets wet — marine, outdoor, hiking, motorsport
- Tactical and service kit, where the patch is swapped between garments on Velcro
- Artwork with hard geometric edges that embroidery softens
- Glow-in-the-dark and reflective elements, which mould in cleanly
Specification
| Item | Standard |
|---|---|
| Material | Soft PVC / silicone rubber |
| Relief | 2D flat or 3D layered |
| Colours | Solid colour fills; no gradients |
| Edges | Die-cut to any outline, including cut-outs |
| Typical size | 1.5–4 inch |
| Minimum order | 50 pieces |
| From | $1.85 per patch |
Choosing a backing
Velcro is the usual pairing. The hook side is moulded or sewn to the patch and the loop side is sewn to the garment once, so one panel can take a whole set.
| Backing | Best on | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Velcro (hook & loop) | Tactical, service and ID panels | Designed to come off — the loop side is sewn to the garment once |
| Sew-on (plain back) | Anything, including technical fabric | The only backing that reliably outlives the garment |
| Magnetic | Garments you cannot pierce | No holes at all; keep away from cards and devices |
How ordering works
- Send artwork. Any format — a logo file, a photo of an old patch, or a sketch on paper.
- Approve the proof. You get a digital proof with the size, colours and border marked. Nothing runs until you sign it off.
- Production. 10–12 business days as standard, 5–7 on a rush, at no extra charge.
- Tracked delivery. Shipped worldwide, to you or straight to your printer.
Common questions
Can PVC patches have gradients?
No. Rubber is poured as solid colour, so a gradient has to be re-drawn as bands. If the artwork depends on shading, woven or sublimation is the better construction.
Do they survive a washing machine?
The patch does. Wash cold and air dry — heat is what damages PVC, not water, so keep them out of a hot tumble dryer.
Ready to order PVC patches?
Send the artwork and say whether you want it flat or layered, and we will quote both and proof the one you pick.
Related reading
- Patch types compared — PVC against embroidered, woven and leather
- How to apply a patch — including hook-and-loop panels