How to Put a Patch on a Hat: A Complete Guide for Every Hat Style
Want to add a personal touch or brand identity to your hat? Whether you’re rocking a trucker cap, a fitted baseball hat, or a cowboy hat, adding a patch is a fun and stylish upgrade. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to put a patch on a hat using different methods—iron-on, sew-on, glue, and Velcro—so you can choose what works best for your hat style.
1. Iron-On Patches for Hats
If you’re using a fabric hat, an iron-on patch is your easiest and cleanest method.
Steps to Apply:
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Preheat your iron to a medium setting (without steam).
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Position the patch on the hat (front, side, or brim).
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Place a thin cloth over the patch.
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Press the iron firmly for 20–30 seconds.
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Let it cool, then check if it’s secure.
Pro Tip: If the patch edges peel later, reinforce them with fabric glue or add a few stitches.
2. Sewing Patches on a Hat
For durability and style, sew-on patches are a top choice, especially for cowboy hats, fitted hats, or leather patches.
Steps:
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Use a curved needle and strong thread.
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Pin the patch in place.
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Sew around the edge (you can hand-sew or use a sewing machine).
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Knot the thread securely on the inside.
This is ideal for felt, denim, or canvas hats.
3. Using Glue for Patches
Some hats (like straw hats) can’t be ironed or sewn. In that case, fabric glue is your best friend.
How to Do It:
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Apply an even layer of glue to the back of the patch.
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Press it onto the hat and let it dry for 24 hours.
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Avoid wearing it while it dries to ensure strong adhesion.
Explore our Custom Patch Design services to create the perfect patch for your straw or felt hat.
4. Velcro Patches: For Flexible Swaps
Want to swap your patch style daily? Use Velcro patches.
How to Apply:
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Sew or glue the soft Velcro strip on your hat.
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Attach the rough side to the patch.
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Mix and match patches whenever you like!
Great for military-style caps, fitted hats, and tactical gear.
5. Best Method by Hat Type
Hat Style |
Best Patch Method |
| Trucker Hat | Sew-on or Iron-on (front only) |
| Fitted Baseball Hat | Iron-on or Sew-on |
| Cowboy Hat (Felt) | Sew-on |
| Cowboy Hat (Straw) | Fabric glue or Velcro |
| Leather Hat | Sew-on or Leather Adhesive |
| Straw Hat | Fabric glue |
Explore our Patch Designing options for unique styles tailored to each hat type.
Final Tips: Customize Patch Like a Pro
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Always test glue or heat on a small area first.
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For leather or structured hats, avoid iron-on—use stitching or adhesive.
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Want a patch with your logo? Our Custom Patches come in embroidered, woven, leather, and more!
Conclusion
Now that you know how to put a patch on a hat—iron it, sew it, glue it, or Velcro it—you can easily add flair to any headwear. Whether it’s for fashion, branding, or function, Elegant Patches is here to help you customize it right. Browse our Custom Patches
collection and start your patch journey today!
