Iron-on patches look simple until the first dryer cycle peels a corner. This page is the backing deep-dive that sits under our backing types roundup. If you are ordering embroidered or printed patches for cotton, read this before you tick iron-on on the form.
How iron-on actually bonds
A heat-activated film on the back melts into fabric fibres. Time, temperature, and pressure matter. Follow the card we send with the order. Press straight down. Do not iron in circles. Let it cool fully before you wear or wash it.
See your artwork as a custom UK patch before you buy. Free digital mockup in 12 hours — 5-piece minimum per design. We do not produce until you approve.
GET A FREE MOCKUPFabrics that reject iron-on
- Leather and faux leather
- Nylon and many waterproof shells
- Heavily coated workwear
- Stretch performance knits unless you test a spare
If the garment is a mystery blend, choose sew-on. That is the durable default we recommend on uniforms. Compare all three in sew-on vs iron-on vs Velcro.
Application checklist
- Pre-heat the press or iron to the instructed temperature.
- Place the patch, cover with parchment if required, press — do not slide.
- Hold for the stated seconds. Repeat from the inside if the card says so.
- Cool completely. Add a few edge stitches if the piece will hit a dryer.
Ready to spec type, size, backing, and quantity? Open the quote form for a free 12-hour mockup and UK-wide shipping after approval.
GET A FREE MOCKUPOrdering iron-on in the UK
Select iron-on backing, size, and quantity (5 minimum per design). We proof the face of the patch on a free mockup — backing is named on that proof. After approval, production plus UK-wide shipping is typically 7–12 business days.