Custom patches are treated as statements. Whether you’re rocking custom patches for denim jackets, decking out a corporate team, sprucing up a leather jacket with custom patches, or designing custom patches for dog harnesses, there’s a patch for every vibe in NZ. From small custom patches to large custom patches for jackets, the right patch tells a story without a word.
But with so many types, embroidered, chenille, leather, PVC, woven, 3D embroidery, applique, sublimated, sequin, it’s easy to feel like you’re lost in a patch jungle. Don’t worry, we’ve got you. Here’s the witty, Kiwi-style, pro guide to every type of custom patch, what they’re for, and why they’re a must-have in 2025.
1. Custom Embroidered Patches – The Classic Kiwi Favourite
If patches were people, embroidered patches would be your dependable best mate: solid, stylish, and never out of place.
- Why they rock: Raised stitching gives texture and detail. Perfect for custom patches for jackets, custom patches for work shirts, and custom patches for clothing that need longevity.
- Best for: School uniforms, corporate branding, sports teams, bikers, fashion drops.
- Ordering tips: Look for custom embroidered patches NZ, cheap custom patches no minimum, or custom patches online to snag flexibility.
Fun fact: These are also your go-to for iron-on custom patches or sew-on custom patches, depending on whether you’re a DIYer or a “leave it to the pros” kinda Kiwi.
2. Custom Chenille Patches – Varsity Vibes on Fleek
Think fluffy, textured, vintage, that’s custom chenille patches. Ever noticed those varsity jackets or rugby club kits with plush, bold letters? That’s chenille doing its thing.
- Why they rock: 3D texture, eye-catching, retro feel.
- Best for: Schools, uni clubs, sports teams, and anyone chasing that American varsity aesthetic.
- Tips: Combine with embroidery for borders to avoid fraying. Check custom chenille patches wholesale if you’re decking out a whole team.
Kiwis love them on letterman jackets, hoodies, and backpacks. Perfect for showing your colours without being subtle.
3. Custom Leather Patches – Boujee & Timeless
If your jacket could talk, leather patches would whisper “premium vibes.”
- Why they rock: Durable, sophisticated, and classy.
- Best for: Leather jacket custom patches, high-end clothing lines, craft brews merch, and bikers who want long-lasting flair.
- Tips: Go custom leather patches NZ for local support. Options like custom faux leather patches exist for cruelty-free or budget-conscious options.
Leather patches pair nicely with heat press custom patches backing for a firm stick or sew-on custom patches if you want it forever.
4. Custom PVC Patches – Durable, Waterproof & Sporty
For outdoorsy Kiwis or anyone needing patches that survive mud, rain, and ocean spray, PVC custom patches are a lifesaver.
- Why they rock: Flexible, waterproof, durable, and can have bold 3D designs.
- Best for: Airsoft teams, outdoor clubs, tradies, dog harnesses (Julius K9 harness custom patches), and motorcycle custom patches.
- Tips: Custom PVC patches with Velcro backing are perfect for swappable designs, think airsoft, events, or uniform rotations.
PVC’s bold look also works on custom patches for hats or jackets where you need something eye-catching and durable.
5. Custom Sublimated / Printed Patches – Full Colour Flex
If your logo is a rainbow gradient or photo-realistic, embroidered won’t cut it. Enter sublimated custom patches (also called printed patches).
- Why they rock: Can reproduce photos, gradients, and vibrant colours without bulky stitching.
- Best for: Fashion brands, bands, corporate merch, and custom patches for clothing that need exact colours.
- Tips: Perfect for custom patches online orders. Pair with iron-on custom patches backing for DIY, or sew-on custom patches for heavy wear.
Sublimation shines when detail is king, especially for small custom patches or single custom patches gifts.
6. Custom Woven Patches – Crisp & Lightweight
Want embroidery detail but without the bulk? Custom woven patches are the solution.
- Why they rock: Crisp lines, smooth finish, perfect for logos, text-heavy patches, or detailed designs.
- Best for: Corporate branding, event merch, custom patches for work shirts, and anywhere you need a polished look without raised texture.
- Tips: Combine with iron-on custom patches backing for clothing or sew-on custom patches for durability.
7. Custom 3D Embroidery Patches – Pop-Out Style
Ever wanted your patch to literally stand out? That’s where custom 3D embroidered patches come in.
- Why they rock: Raised threads give a tactile, 3D effect that looks premium. Ideal for logos, badges, or anything you want to “pop.”
- Best for: Custom patches for jackets, letterman jacket custom patches, varsity jacket custom patches, biker patches, and corporate branding that needs to grab attention.
- Tips: Works best with thicker fabrics and sew-on custom patches backing for longevity. Combine with custom patches bulk orders if outfitting a team — keeps costs reasonable.
3D embroidery adds a touch of class without screaming “expensive.” Perfect for NZ brands, clubs, and boutique clothing labels.
8. Custom Applique Patches – Layered Magic
Custom applique patches are like embroidery on steroids, fabric layers sewn onto a base for a textured, layered look.
- Why they rock: Adds depth and colour variation without making the patch stiff or heavy.
- Best for: Jackets, bags, vests, and custom patches for clothes that need a high-fashion twist.
- Tips: Perfect for custom patches for denim jackets. Combine with iron-on custom patches for casual DIY or sew-on custom patches for professional finish.
Kiwis love applique for artsy, boutique brands and clubs who want something a bit different than standard embroidery.
9. Custom Sequin Patches – Sparkle & Fun
Want to literally dazzle? Custom sequin patches are here to turn heads.
- Why they rock: Reflective, eye-catching, and perfect for bold statements.
- Best for: Fashion brands, festival gear, girls’ jackets, custom patches for caps, or custom patches for backpacks.
- Tips: Use sparingly, sequins can weigh down clothing if overdone. Pair with sew-on custom patches backing for durability.
Sequin patches are niche but perfect for seasonal trends, events, or any Kiwi fashionista wanting to stand out.
Choosing the Right Type of Custom Patch
With so many options, deciding can feel overwhelming. Here’s a simple NZ-style cheat sheet:
| Type | Best Use | Kiwi Tip |
| Embroidered | Durable, classic | School/club uniforms, jackets |
| Chenille | Retro, bold letters | Varsity jackets, sports teams |
| Leather | Premium, sophisticated | Jackets, boutique clothing |
| PVC | Waterproof, bold | Dog harnesses, airsoft, outdoor wear |
| Sublimated | Full-colour designs | Logos, photos, merch |
| Woven | Text-heavy, small detail | Corporate or event patches |
| 3D Embroidery | Pop-out effect | Logo patches for jackets & hats |
| Applique | Layered, textured | High-fashion or bespoke designs |
| Sequin | Sparkle/festive | Festival gear, statement jackets |
Pro Tip: Match your patch to fabric type, wear purpose, and desired durability. A PVC patch on a cotton hoodie might be overkill, but perfect for a dog harness or jacket pocket.
Trends in NZ Custom Patches
- Oversized custom patches for jackets are in, the bigger, the bolder.
- PVC patches and Velcro patches are popular for outdoor wear and clubs.
- Chenille patches are back for varsity jackets and retro vibes.
- Sequin and applique patches are trending for fashion-forward festival and boutique wear.
- People love small custom patches for hats, backpacks, and hoodies, versatile and affordable.
Kiwis mix & match materials: embroidered base + 3D pop + applique layer = instant eye-catcher.
FAQs
What types of custom patches are available in NZ?
You can choose from embroidered, chenille, leather, PVC, woven, 3D embroidery, applique, sequin, and sublimated/printed patches. Each type suits different styles, durability, and clothing materials.
Which custom patch is best for jackets?
For denim or leather jackets, embroidered, leather, PVC, chenille, or 3D embroidery patches are ideal. Choose sew-on or Velcro backing for durability.
What’s the difference between embroidered and woven patches?
Embroidered patches have raised threads for a textured look. Woven patches are smooth with crisp details, ideal for logos or text-heavy designs.
Which backing options are available for custom patches?
Common options include sew-on, iron-on, heat press, and Velcro. Sew-on lasts longest, iron-on is good for DIY, and Velcro allows swapping patches easily.
Can I mix patch types for one project?
Absolutely. Many Kiwi brands mix embroidered bases with 3D, applique, or PVC layers for unique designs that stand out.
How do I choose the right patch type for my project?
Consider fabric, intended use, size, style, and budget. PVC and leather for durability, chenille for retro/vintage, sequin/applique for fashion, and embroidered/woven for classic designs.
Why You Should Start Making Custom Patches Today?
Whether it’s for branding your biz, decking out jackets, airsoft teams, dog harnesses, or festival fashion, the right custom patch says more than words ever could.
NZ Kiwis love style that’s personal and practical. Don’t settle for boring branding, make your clothing, jackets, hats, and accessories stand out with high-quality custom patches.
Ready to make your mark? Reach out to Patch Makers NZ, we’ll help you design custom patches online, sort the backing, and deliver fast, quality patches anywhere in NZ. Your gear deserves it.
