Home › Patches by use › Uniform patches
Custom Uniform Patches for Workwear, Staff and Departments
By Michael Anderson and Sarah Mitchell, lead digitizers and production heads with 15+ years each · Updated October 30, 2026
Key takeaways
- Logo patches: 2 to 4 inches; name tapes: 3.5 x 1 to 4 x 2 inches.
- Sew-on lasts best through frequent washing.
- Reorders match your approved design.
- Split shipping is available for teams in several locations.
Uniform patches we make
| Patch | Where it goes | Recommended type and backing |
|---|---|---|
| Company logo patch | Left chest or sleeve | Embroidered, sew-on |
| Name tape | Above the pocket | Embroidered or woven (name tags) |
| Department or role patch | Sleeve | Embroidered |
| Cap patch | Front of the cap | Embroidered or leather |
| Safety or certification patch | Sleeve or chest | Woven or embroidered |
Backing by uniform type
| Uniform | Recommended backing | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Work shirts and polos | Sew-on | Survives industrial washing |
| Jackets and outerwear | Sew-on | Holds on heavy fabric |
| Caps | Sew-on or adhesive | Curved surface |
| Vests and gear | Velcro | Swap patches between items |
Rolling out to a team
- Approve one design for everyone.
- Send a list of names if you need name tapes.
- Choose one shipping address or split shipping across locations.
- Reorder anytime; the design is stored so new patches match.
See patches for businesses for procurement, tax-exempt invoices and purchase orders.
How to order, step by step
- Send your artwork or idea. A logo, a sketch or a photo of an old patch is enough. Design and digitizing are free.
- Tell us size, quantity and backing. Not sure? We suggest them in your proof.
- Get your free proof within 24 hours. Check names, numbers and colors.
- Approve and pay. You pay only after you approve.
- Delivery within 10 business days, or 3 to 5 business days with rush. Free shipping on 100+ pieces.
What it costs
Price depends mainly on quantity, size and patch type. There are no setup fees on embroidered patches (PVC only: a one-time mold of about $80, reused free on reorders).
Estimated price per 3 inch embroidered patch, by quantity
Source: the Custom Patched USA price calculator, October 2026. Your exact price depends on size, coverage and backing.
Checklist before you approve
- Logo matches your brand colors
- Every name spelled correctly on name tapes
- Size matches your current uniform patches
- Sew-on chosen for uniforms washed often
- Quantity includes new hires and replacements
Common mistakes
| Mistake | What to do instead |
|---|---|
| Iron-on on uniforms washed every week | Use sew-on |
| Different sizes on different reorders | Give us the exact size once and we keep it on file |
| Name list sent piece by piece | Send one complete list or spreadsheet |
From our production team
Michael and Sarah keep each company’s approved size, colors and thread on file, so a reorder next year matches the patches already on your uniforms. Their main tip for uniforms is sew-on backing, because industrial laundry is hard on iron-on adhesive.
From our 2026 order data: iron-on (37%) and sew-on (35%) backing are almost tied overall, but uniforms that are washed often do best with sew-on. See the Custom Patch Order Report 2026.
Frequently asked questions
What size is a uniform logo patch?
Usually 2 to 4 inches for a chest or sleeve logo.
What size is a name tape?
Usually 3.5 x 1 to 4 x 2 inches, with one or two lines.
Which backing is best for uniforms?
Sew-on, because it survives frequent industrial washing.
Will reorders match our current patches?
Yes. We keep your approved design, size and colors on file.
Can you ship to several locations?
Yes. Ask about split shipping in your quote.
Related: Patches for businesses · Name tag patches · Logo patches · Police and security patches
Why order from Custom Patched USA
Ready to outfit your team?
Send your artwork or idea. You get a free mockup and proof within 24 hours and pay only after you approve it. No minimum order.