How to Iron on patches on polyester? detailed guide (2023)

Do you have a polyester garment to which you want to add a patch? If so, you may wonder how to iron on patches of polyester. Fortunately, it’s not as difficult as you might think.

In this article, we’ll explain to you how to iron on patches on polyester so that you can take action immediately

What is polyester?

Polyester is a type of synthetic fabric that is often used to make clothing and other items. It is made from natural and artificial materials, including petroleum-based chemicals.

Polyester fabric is typically less expensive than other fabrics, and the material is durable and easy to maintain. When ironing on patches, it is essential to use a low heat setting and to cover the patch with a thin cloth to prevent scorching.

What are patches?

Patches are a great way to add personality to your clothes and show off your style. They’re also a great way to cover up holes or stains. But they can be a pain to iron on if you’re not careful.

Here are a few tips to make sure your patches go on smoothly:

– Use a piece of parchment paper or a press cloth between your patch and the Iron, which will protect your patch from getting too hot and melting.

In the Iron, you should keep it at the hottest setting for your fabric. Polyester can take a lot of heat, so don’t worry about cramming the temperature.

– Hold the Iron in one spot for 10-15 seconds before moving to another area. You want to make sure the entire patch is heated evenly.

– Let the patch cool completely before moving or putting it under stress, which will help it adhere better and last longer.

What You’ll Need

-Iron

-Ironing board

-Patch

-Tape

-Scissors

How to iron on patches on polyester

Iron-on patches are a great option if you’re looking to add something extra to your polyester clothing! Here’s a quick and easy guide on how to apply them:

Choose the correct patch.

When choosing the correct patch for your project, there are a few things to consider:

  1. The size of the patch. Ensure the patch is big enough to cover the area you want to iron it on but not so big that it looks out of proportion.
  2. Consider the shape of the patch. Some patches are designed to fit specific areas, like the knee or elbow, and others are more generic and can be used anywhere. If unsure, ask a salesperson to help choose the correct patch for your project.
  3. Think about the colour of the patch and the fabric you’ll iron it on. Matching colours usually look best, but sometimes contrasting shades can create a stimulating effect.
  4. Check whether the patch is machine-washable before buying it.
white colored iron on fabric

Step One: Prepare the Polyester Fabric

To prepare the polyester fabric for ironing on patches:

  1. Start by ensuring the material is clean and free of dirt or debris.
  2. Once the material is pure, lay it flat on an ironing board and cover it with a thin layer of parchment paper.
  3. Set your Iron to a medium heat setting and allow it to warm up.

Once the Iron is heated, gently press down on the parchment paper covering the fabric. Be sure to move the Iron around in a circular motion to distribute the heat evenly.

After a few moments, lift the parchment paper to check if the fabric is warm enough. If not, replace the parchment paper and continue heating until the material is warm to the touch.

Now that the fabric is prepared, you can begin attaching your patches!

Step Two: Place the Patch

Iron-on patches are a great way to personalize your clothes and make them unique. If you want to add flair to your wardrobe, follow these simple steps to iron on a patch.

To start, find a flat surface, like an ironing board or a countertop. Place your garment on the surface and smooth out any wrinkles.

Then, locate where you want to position the patch and preheat your Iron to the hottest setting. Once the Iron is hot, carefully place the patch onto the garment.

Cover the patch with thin fabric or a handkerchief and press down with the Iron. Hold for 30 seconds or until the patch is firmly attached. Let the garment cool before wearing.

Step Three: Iron the Patch

Ironing on polyester patches can be tricky, but with a few tips and tricks, you’ll be a pro in no time! Here’s what you need to do:

1. Preheat your Iron to the highest safe setting for the fabric you’re working with. Polyester can tolerate high heat, so go ahead and crank that sucker up!

2. Place your patch in the desired position on the garment and place a piece of parchment paper or a press cloth over the top.

3. Apply firm pressure with your Iron and hold for 15-20 seconds. Move the Iron around, so you’re focused on more than just one spot.

4. Let the garment cool completely before moving or wearing it; this will ensure that the adhesive has time to set correctly.

Step Four: Let the Patch Cool

Allowing the patch to cool thoroughly is an essential step in the process. If the patch is not cooled properly, it can cause the adhesive to become less effective, which may cause the patch to fall off over time.

Use a hairdryer on a low setting to help speed up the cooling process if needed. Once the patch is cooled, it should be firmly attached to the fabric and ready to show off!

Women using iron to patch on polyester

Tips for ironing on patches

When it comes to Ironing on patches, there are a few things you need to keep in mind to ensure a good result:

  1. Set your Iron to the correct heat setting. Polyester fabric can be ironed at a high setting without damaging it.
  2. Always use a press cloth when Ironing. The Iron will protect your patch and surrounding materials from being roasted.
  3. Make sure to Iron your patch in a well-ventilated area, as the fumes from the adhesive can be substantial.
  4. Be sure to let your patched garment cool completely before wearing it to allow the adhesive to set correctly.

What are some alternatives to patching polyester?

Alternative methods are available for attaching patches to polyester fabrics. These include using fusible webbing or fabric glue. Each method has pros and cons when determining which method to use.

Fusible webbing is a more permanent option for attaching patches to polyester. It is applied using an iron and bonding agent and then sewn into place for extra security.

This method is more time-consuming than adhesive tape or sheets, but it will create a stronger bond between the patch and the fabric.

You can also use fabric glue to attach patches to polyester fabrics. It is a quick and easy option, but it is not as strong as fusible webbing and can come off if the fabric stretches or gets wet.

Is it possible to iron on patches to certain fabrics? 

There are a few different types of fabrics that you can iron on patches to. The most common material to iron on patches is denim.

Denim is a sturdy fabric that can withstand heat, making it ideal for ironing patches. Other clothes you can iron on include cotton, polyester, and wool.

Cotton is a soft fabric that is easy to iron on patches. The heat from the iron will not damage the cotton fibres, making it a good choice for those new to iron-on patches.

white coloured iron on patches on polyester

Polyester is a synthetic fabric that is easy to iron on patches. It is essential to use a low heat setting when ironing on polyester, as too much heat can damage the fabric.

Wool is a natural fibre that can be tricky to iron on patches. When using an iron on wool, it is important to use a pressing cloth between the patch and the wool fabric so that the heat from the iron does not damage the delicate fibres.

Conclusion

Ironing on patches is a great way to personalize and add style to your polyester clothing. With care and attention, you can quickly iron on patches to create a one-of-a-kind look that shows off your personality. Thanks for reading, and we hope this guide has helped you successfully iron on patches to your polyester clothing!