Patch FAQ
Straight answers about our embroidered iron-on patches: sizes, how to apply them, which patch fits which costume, shipping times, and bulk orders. Mr Patches has made embroidered patches since 2014 and ships every order from Raleigh, North Carolina.
Are Mr Patches patches embroidered or printed?
Every patch we sell is fully embroidered with raised thread, not printed. Most have a merrowed (rolled, stitched) border that keeps the edge from fraying, and a heat-seal iron-on backing. Every patch can also be sewn on.
What size are the patches?
- Country flags and U.S. state flags: 3.5 x 2.5 inches each (2-packs for country flags, singles for state flags).
- Harry Potter house crests (Gryffindor, Slytherin, Ravenclaw, Hufflepuff): about 3.5 x 4 inches.
- Glow-in-the-dark patches (Darth Vader, Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., Ghostbusters): about 3.5 inches across. Skeleton middle finger glow: about 4 x 3 inches.
- Chicago: about 4 x 2 inches. New York City: about 5 x 4 inches. Occupy Mars: 4.5 inches round.
The exact size is listed on every product page.
How do I iron on a patch?
- Place: lay the patch on clean, dry fabric and cover it with a thin cloth (a pillowcase works).
- Press: use a dry iron with no steam on the cotton setting. Press firmly for 35 to 45 seconds on the front, then turn the garment inside out and press 35 to 45 seconds on the back.
- Cool: let it cool completely before you touch or wear it. If an edge lifts, press that spot again.
Iron-on works best on cotton, cotton blends, denim, canvas and twill.
When should I sew a patch instead of ironing it?
Sew it on for nylon and polyester (most backpacks, windbreakers and flight jackets), waterproof or coated fabric, leather, stretchy knits, hats with a curved front, and anything washed often. A simple running stitch around the border with matching thread is enough. You can also iron first and then sew the edge for extra hold.
Which patches do I need for an astronaut costume?
The classic look is a NASA logo on the chest and an American flag on the shoulder. Use the NASA red and white logo patch and the USA flag patch with gold border on a white or orange coverall. Our astronaut costume guide shows where each patch goes. Iron them on if the coverall is cotton or a cotton blend; sew them on if it is polyester or nylon.
Which patches do I need for a Harry Potter costume?
Put one house crest on the left chest of a black robe, sweater or blazer. Pick a single crest, or get the set of all four house crests for a family or group costume. Each crest is about 3.5 x 4 inches. See our house crest costume guide. Many robes are polyester, so sew those on.
Do the glow-in-the-dark patches really glow?
Yes. The glow thread charges in light (sunlight or a lamp for a few minutes) and then glows in the dark, which makes them a good fit for Halloween night. See the glow-in-the-dark collection.
Will a patch arrive in time for Halloween?
Order as soon as you can. We dispatch in 1 to 2 business days, and U.S. delivery usually takes 2 to 5 business days after that. If you need it by a specific date, contact us before ordering and we will tell you honestly whether it can make it.
How much is shipping?
U.S. shipping is free on every order by stamped letter mail, with no minimum. Tracked shipping is free on orders of $25 or more, and $3.99 below that. International orders ship tracked to supported countries, with the rate shown at checkout. International delivery usually takes 7 to 21 business days.
Can patches be washed?
Yes. Turn the garment inside out, wash cold on a gentle cycle and hang it to dry. Sewn-on patches hold up best on items washed often.
Do you sell patches in bulk for troops, teams, schools or stores?
Yes. We can supply scout troops, schools, teams, costume shops and gift shops from stock. Tell us the design, quantity and deadline on the Bulk & Wholesale page or email mmoftah@mrpatches.net, and we will reply with pricing and availability.
Where can I see returns and other policies?
See the Shipping policy and Refund policy. For a question about a specific order, contact Mr Patches.