Who Orders Custom Military Patches
A unit patch for a company headquarters has different needs than a patch for a 30-year reunion. For that reason, we group most orders into four types.
Unit and team patches
Company, platoon, squadron and section designs worn on gear, bags and off-duty clothing.
Deployment patches
Patches that mark a rotation, exercise or mission name, often handed out at the end of a tour.
Veteran patches
Designs for veterans' groups, memorial rides and personal jackets, often in full color.
Reunion and association patches
Commemorative patches with a year and location for reunions, ship associations and alumni groups.
Subdued and Full-Color Military Patches
Patches worn on camouflage uniforms usually come in subdued colors. Thread shades like tan, coyote brown, olive, spice brown and black blend with OCP-style patterns. In contrast, reunion and veteran patches often use full color.
| Color scheme | Best for | Typical thread colors |
|---|---|---|
| Subdued (OCP-friendly) | Field uniforms and tan or multicam gear | Tan, coyote brown, olive, spice brown |
| Black and gray | Black or gray gear and covers | Black, charcoal, light gray |
| Full color | Reunions, veterans and keepsakes | Any colors from your artwork |
Many units order a subdued version for the field and a full-color version as a keepsake. Since the layout doesn't change, both versions come from one approved design.
Shoulder Patch and Uniform Patch Sizes
A shoulder patch has to fit the loop panel on the sleeve. Measure the panel before you choose a size. Most sleeve panels hold a patch around 3 to 3.5 inches wide.
- Shoulder or arm patch: often 3 x 3.5 inches, shield or rounded rectangle.
- Name tapes and tabs: long rectangles with block text. See custom name patches.
- Helmet patches: small, often 2 inches or less, with hook backing.
- Backpack patches: larger designs, since packs have more loop space.
Uniform patches with very small text may work better as woven patches. Woven threads are thinner, so lettering stays sharp at small sizes.
Embroidered vs PVC Custom Military Patches
Embroidered military patches are the classic choice. They use polyester thread on a twill base, with 75–100% stitch coverage for a full look. Learn more on our custom embroidered patches page.
PVC patches are molded from soft rubber. They resist water, mud and sun, and they wipe clean. As a result, they work well on helmets and field packs. Our custom PVC patches page explains 2D and 3D molds.
Military Velcro Patches and Other Backings
Most military velcro patches have the hook side sewn to the patch. That's because uniforms and gear carry the soft loop side. The hook should be stitched through, not just glued, so it stays put in the field.
Veteran and reunion patches often go on jackets, vests and caps instead. In that case, sew-on or heat-seal backing makes more sense. Read more about hook-and-loop patches and when to choose them.
Design Tips for Unit and Reunion Patches
The best unit patches are simple. A single mascot, a short motto and the unit's nickname read better than a crowded scene. Also, a patch seen from six feet away needs bold shapes, not fine shading.
- Pick one central emblem, such as an animal, a mountain or a tool linked to your mission.
- Keep text short. Mottos of two to four words stitch cleanly on an outer ring.
- Limit the palette to about six thread colors so each shade stays distinct.
- Add the year and location for deployment and reunion patches, so they work as keepsakes.
Before production, we compare a sample from each batch against your approved proof. We check colors, text, border closure and how securely the backing is attached. For more design guidance, read how to design a custom patch.
How Ordering Works
- 01
Send your artwork
Upload your design, sketch or an old patch photo. Add the size, quantity, colors and backing.
- 02
Get your quote
Our team reviews the design and replies with a price and ideas for subdued or full-color versions.
- 03
Approve the digital proof
You see a digital mockup with thread colors and size. Production starts only after you approve it.
- 04
Production and inspection
We make your patches and check each batch for stitching, color, border and backing.
- 05
Delivery
Your order ships to your US address with tracking.
Planning a homecoming or reunion? Start your military patch quote and ask our team about quantities and timing.
Military Patches: Frequently Asked Questions
Are your custom military patches approved for uniform wear?
No. We make patches to your design, but we don't approve or certify them. Rules for official insignia vary by branch and command, so check before wearing one on a duty uniform.
Can you make a subdued version of our unit patch?
Yes. We convert your design to tan, olive, brown or black thread. Many units order a subdued and a full-color version at the same time.
What size is a standard shoulder patch?
Many sleeve patches are about 3 x 3.5 inches. However, measure your loop panel first. The patch should cover the panel without hanging over the edge.
Do military velcro patches come with both hook and loop?
The patch usually carries the hook side, because uniforms and gear have the loop side. Ask for a loop piece too if you plan to put the patch on a jacket or bag.
Can you recreate an old unit patch for a reunion?
Yes. Send a clear photo of the original. We redraw it for production and send a digital proof so your group can compare it before we make it.
Do you make personalized military patches for veterans?
Yes. Veteran patches can include service years, a branch-neutral emblem or a personal motto. They work well on jackets, vests and caps.
Can family readiness groups order military patches?
Yes. Family groups often order patches for homecoming events, fundraisers and care packages. Many choose full color and iron-on or sew-on backing for jackets, bags and kids' clothing.
