Material
Patch Backing
The bonding layer on the back of a patch that attaches it to the garment, available in heat-activated or sew-on formats.
Definition
Patch backing is the bonding layer on the back side of a patch that attaches it to a garment. The two production options are adhesive (heat-activated) backing and sew-on backing. Adhesive backing carries a thermoplastic hot melt layer that activates under a heat press at 280 to 300 F for 15 seconds, producing a permanent garment bond. Sew-on backing has no adhesive and is attached with stitching around the perimeter or with a tackle twill style stitch pattern. Sew-on is preferred for jacket and bag panels where heat would damage the substrate. Heat-applied adhesive backing is preferred for hat panels, apparel, and high-volume production.
Related Terms
Adhesive Backing
A heat-activated bonding layer on the back of a patch that attaches the patch to a garment under a heat press.
Sewn-On Patch
A patch with no adhesive that is attached to a garment with perimeter stitching.
Raised UV Patch
A heat-applied apparel patch decorated with layered UV cure passes to deliver embroidery-grade tactile height.
Leatherette Patch
A heat-applied patch with a synthetic leather face surface printed with raised UV branding.