- If you have store-bought patches that are meant to be ironed-on, then you're in good shape for an easy project. These usually require you to set your iron on a high 'cotton' steam setting, because these patches are thick.
- Printable transfers take a little more finesse. The transfer paper needs to take just enough heat to melt the adhesive onto your clothing. If you apply too little or too much heat, then it won't stick. Cut out a 1/2"x1/2" square of your printed paper and iron a test patch where it won't be noticeable. The bottom inside hem is a good place on a shirt or pants, and along the inside bottom is good for a bag.
- You can also make your own patches with cotton fabric and fusible web. Fusible web is like a thin sheet of adhesive that melts when you iron it. I have some free templates for patches, including skulls, hearts, arrows and more that you can use to cut pieces of fabric. Use any quilting-grade fabric, which is mostly cotton. There are so many cute patterned fabrics out there.
- What should you iron it onto?
Cotton fabrics work best, as well as denim. If you go for a fabric that has plastic in it, you will run the risk of burning and melting it with the iron. Always test a small part of your clothing first with the iron before you apply a patch.
For this tutorial, we are using a simple Ready Made Tote Kit, that came with a tote bag and letter patches.
Now, position your patches before you iron.
