How to Choose the Right Custom Patch Type: Embroidered, Leatherette, UV Printed + More
Not all logos work best with the same patch style. Some designs need bold stitching, some need crisp engraving, and others look best in full color. Below is a simple breakdown of the custom patch types we offer, what each one is best for, and how to choose the right option.
Lucky Dog Branding is based in Idaho Falls, ID, and we produce patches for customers nationwide.
Quick guide: which patch type should you choose?
- Embroidered – classic stitched look for bold logos and simple shapes
- Laser engraved – sharp detail and clean lines
- Sublimation + stitch – full color artwork with a stitched border
- Leatherette – “leather look” with consistent engraving
- UV printed – crisp, vibrant printing for fine detail and color accuracy
1) Embroidered patches
Best for: bold logos, thicker text, classic workwear branding
Embroidered patches are the traditional stitched patch. They’re durable, textured, and look right at home on hats and jobsite gear. If your logo has clean shapes and readable text, embroidery is often the most recognizable option.
Great on: trucker hats, beanies, jackets, backpacks
Design note: very tiny text may need to be simplified so it stays readable in thread.
2) Laser engraved patches
Best for: fine lines, clean detail, modern branding
Laser engraving creates a sharp, precise mark—ideal for logos with thin strokes or detail that would get lost in stitching. It’s a popular choice when you want a clean, premium feel.
Great on: hats, beanies, and patch placements where detail matters
3) Sublimation + stitch (full color) patches
Best for: full color logos, gradients, complex artwork
Sublimation + stitch combines a full-color printed face with a stitched border. It’s one of the best options for multi-color logos, shading, or artwork that would be difficult to reproduce with thread alone.
Great on: hats, bags, jackets, promotional gear
4) Leatherette patches
Best for: a rugged “leather look” with consistent results
Leatherette patches are popular because they give a premium look without the variability of natural leather. They engrave clean and are consistent from patch to patch—great for bulk orders.
Great on: trucker hats, beanies, uniforms, gift-style items
5) UV printed patches
Best for: vibrant color, crisp detail, gradients, small text
UV printed patches are a great option when you want sharp, high-resolution artwork and color that pops. If your design includes gradients, fine detail, or multiple colors that need to stay accurate, UV printing is often a strong choice.
Great on: hats, bags, and branded gear where you want maximum detail
What we can apply patches to
- Trucker hats (including Richardson-style favorites)
- Beanies
- Jackets + outerwear
- Bags + backpacks
- Work shirts
- Promo gear + giveaways
How the process works
- Choose your patch type (or ask us which one fits your logo best)
- Select your quantity (bulk saves the most)
- Place your order
- We send a proof after purchase for approval before production
- We produce and ship (we ship nationwide)
FAQ
Which patch type is best for small details?
For fine detail, laser engraved or UV printed are usually best options. If you need full color, UV printed or sublimation + stitch typically looks the cleanest.
Which patch type is best for a classic stitched look?
Embroidered is the traditional choice for a textured, stitched finish—especially for bold logos and workwear branding.
Do I need a perfect logo file?
No. Send what you have. We’ll clean it up as needed and send a proof after purchase before production.
Ready to order bulk custom patches?
