Iron on patches work best on shirts made from cotton, polyester, or cotton-polyester blends. Nylon or rayon shirts are not good candidates because the material could scorch during the heated application. Vinyl or leather materials won’t deliver good results either. However, working with an appropriate material sets you on the path of success. With this in mind, you’re ready to learn how to iron a patch on a shirt. If you haven’t ordered your iron on patches yet, request a free quote from American Patch today!

How to Iron a Patch on a Shirt Step by Step

1. Confirm that the shirt is made from cotton, polyester, or a blend.
2. Spread two layers of towels over a countertop or set up an ironing board to work on.
3. Turn on a household iron to its highest setting, which should produce a temperature of at least 370 degrees Fahrenheit.
4. Make sure that the iron’s steam function is OFF.
5. Pin or tape the iron on patch to the shirt to decide if you like how it looks in that location. A measuring tape helps if you’re trying to center its placement.
6. Adjust the patch’s position if necessary until you’re satisfied.
7. Place your shirt right side up on the ironing board. Make sure that the fabric is flat.
8. Remove the iron on patch that you pinned in place temporarily.
9. Spread a press cloth, like a cotton pillowcase or handkerchief, over the shirt’s application area.
10. Press the hot iron down on the press cloth to heat it and the shirt beneath it.
11. Pick up the press cloth and position the patch carefully on the heated shirt fabric.
12. Cover the patch with the press cloth.
13. Press the hot iron down on the press cloth over the patch. Do NOT move the iron around or you could smear the adhesive.
14. Apply downward pressure to the iron for at least 60 seconds. (A heat press will require less time and is the recommended application method.)
15. Apply the iron again for 60 more seconds to ensure the glue has adhered to the garment.
16. Set the iron aside and remove the press cloth.
17. Gently test the edges of the patch to see if it has stuck in place.
18. Cover with press cloth and heat again if necessary to complete attachment.
19. Conclude the steps for how to iron a patch on a shirt by flipping the shirt over.
20. Press the fabric from the back side of the patch with the hot iron.

Express Yourself With Custom Iron On Patches

At American Patch, we make custom patches for businesses, clubs, teams, and other organizations. We can transform your original design into premium quality embroidered patches. We can manufacture custom patches in almost any shape and size. On top of that, we make the production process easy. You get a free quote and a free physical sample for approval instead of just a digital preview. Our fast turnaround times and free U. S. shipping mean that you’ll have your custom patches before you know it.