How to Iron on Patches

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Especially for kids who play hard, holes can be a frequent problem. These jeans looked new until my three year old wore them to play outside for the afternoon. Iron on patches are the easiest solution to this type of problem.

So for your question, how to iron on patches….

These iron on patches can be purchased on amazon for about $7

The only tool you need to iron on a patch is an iron. It won’t work if it is set to a low heat setting. I would recommend using a cotton setting.

Iron on patches are ideal for

  • cottons
  • denim
  • linen

Iron on patches DO NOT work well for

  • formal wear (satin, chiffon etc)
  • knit fabric

Tip #1 : Make sure the sticky/shiny side of the fabric is not facing the iron. If it is the glue substance with stick to your iron and cause you a lot of heartache trying to get it off. In case you do get gunk on your iron the best way to remove it is to use iron off

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Tip #2: Leave the iron on long enough to melt the glue into the clothing you are patching. When ironing don’t leave the iron still, move it slowly and firmly back and forth over the patch. When you think you have ironed enough test the corners of the patch with your fingers to see if it is stuck down well.

Disclaimer: Iron on patches are a great solution but they may not last through a series of times in the washing machine.

Alternative method for an iron on patch

If you don’t have a store bought iron on patch you can use stitch witchery to make your own.

If you want to use stitch witchery you will have to cut your own piece of fabric to use for the patch. Then you will place pieces of the stitch witchery underneath the patch so that it will fuse to the clothing while you iron.

Stitch witchery is a good idea if the store bought patches don’t come in the colors you want. However, stitch witchery has a lower success rate of holding in the washer

If you don’t have an iron you will of course need to purchase on.

These two have the best reviews on amazon

A black and decker for under $40
A rowenta for $65 or more

If you are looking to iron on patches you may be interested in other ways to make your clothes last longer and fit better, allowing you to spend less on clothing and save the environment from more waster.

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A great way to reuse a favorite tie from a dad or grandfather. Upcylce a tie into a chic bow tie