No Backing
Embroidered badges can be made without a backing. (In fact, they start out that way.) These badges will show the twill or threads on the back of the badge, and they are generally more flexible. Badges without backings do not have the same thickness or stiffness as badges with backings; therefore, the best time to order badges without backings is when they will be sewn onto garments or other types of fabrics.
Plastic Backing
Plastic backing adds stiffness and support to the badge, allowing it to stay flat over time, while still leaving the badge thin enough to be sewn onto a garment.
EMBROIDERYBADGE.COM includes plastic backing at no extra charge. Plastic can be used with any badge, regardless of size, shape, or border type.
Heat Seal (Iron On) Backing
Heat Seal backing aka iron on backing allows badge application to a garment using a home iron. Iron On backings add some stiffness to badges, allowing them to lay flat. Some badge companies rate their iron-on backing for 20-30 washes, while others, including EMBROIDERYBADGE.COM, use more robust adhesives to achieve 50-80 washing cycles. When using heatseal, it is advisable to sew a few stitches first, in order to hold the badge in place. Heat seal does not adhere to garments that have been water proofed.
Adhesive Backing
An adhesive backing is a non-permanent option when applied to fabric or clothing; therefore, it is best for a single event. Although the glue is much stronger than what you will find on an average paper sticker, it will not withstand a cycle in the washing machine, and it will also weaken over time. For permanent application, order your custom badges with plastic or no backing and sew them to your garment. Also known as peel and stick, adhesive, in a sense, turns your badge into an embroidered sticker. A glue is pressed onto the back of the badge, then is overlaid with paper to be peeled off at the time of use.
Hook-Sided Velcro Backing
Velcro backings tend to be used in military applications such as morale badges, where removing and reapplying badges happens frequently.
Hook and loop fasteners are available in one side or two sides. If your uniform or garment already has a loop fastener area, one-sided Velcro is the best choice. One-sided Velcro is our most popular Velcro option, comprising upward of 95% of Velcro orders. As you can see, we offer Velcro backing in other colours besides black, including—but not limited to—OD green, brown, and shades of gray.
Two-Sided Velcro Backing
If your uniform or garment does not already have a loop fastener area, two-sided Velcro is the best choice. This backing comes with both the hook and loop side. All you have to do is sew the loop fastener onto your uniform.
The EMBROIDERYBADGE.COM Difference: Many patch companies glue the Velcro backing to the patch, creating weak points that eventually cause the Velcro to detach itself from the back of the patch. EMBROIDERYBADGE.COM sews the backing and patch together for a stronger bond and longer life.
Non Woven Backing
This is the most commonly used backing for hand sewn on or applique badges. The non woven backing adds a little stiffness to your badge making it more stable. A neat backing that finishes the design off.
