Sublimated patches are a more modern offering to the classic embroidered patch. Sublimated patches are great for multi-colored, complex logos with small and fine details. Sublimated patches work well with many custom logo apparel products such as hats, bags, and more. Sublimated patches are sometimes known as printed patches or heat transfer dye sublimated patches. Sublimated patches do not require any thread to be stitched or woven compared to embroidered patches or woven patches. Sublimated patches are created through dye sublimation printing.
Sublimated patches can come in various shapes and sizes similar to embroidered patches and woven patches. For sublimated patches with simple shapes, they can have a merrowed edge or satin stitched edge and are hand stitch applied to the apparel item such as a hat. For complex shape sublimated patches, they only have a satin stitched edge and are heat press applied to the hat. Neon colors cannot be sublimated and edge thread colors may not be an exact match to sublimated colors.
Sublimated patches utilize two types of edges - merrowed edge or satin stitch edge. Merrowed edge, which is the standard and most common, wraps around the edge of a patch. A satin stitch edge is applied on top of the patch. A merrowed edge can stop the patch from fraying and this overlaps directly on the patch’s edge. A satin stitch edge is thinner and does not overlap the patch’s edge.
Sublimated patches usually show smaller details much better compared to embroidered patches or woven patches. Multi-colored logos and brightly colored logos may show up better on sublimated patches.
