Embroidered vs. Woven Patches: Which Is Best for Your Custom Design?
When ordering custom patches for your brand, club, or uniform, the first question you’ll face is: Should I choose Embroidered or Woven patches?
At first glance, they might look similar. However, the difference in texture, level of detail, and cost can completely change the look of your final product. As a direct manufacturer at PatchCraftPro, we help hundreds of clients make this decision every week.
In this guide, we’ll break down the Embroidered vs. Woven patches debate to help you choose the perfect style for your project.
What is an Embroidered Patch? (The Classic Choice)
Embroidered patches are the most traditional and popular style of patch. If you think of a classic police uniform, a biker vest, or a Boy Scout badge, you are picturing an embroidered patch.
They are created by stitching thick threads onto a fabric background (twill).
Key Features:
3D Texture: The threads are thicker, creating a raised, classic “bumpy” feel.
Classic Look: They offer a high-quality, traditional aesthetic that people associate with premium patches.
Durability: The heavy stitching makes them incredibly durable for outdoor gear.
✅ Best For: Uniforms, hats, jackets, and designs with bold, simple logos.
What is a Woven Patch? (The Detail King)
Woven patches are made using thinner threads that are woven together to form the patch (similar to how a label in a shirt is made), rather than stitched on top of a fabric.
Because the threads are thinner and woven tightly, there is no fabric base visible. The surface is smooth and flat.
Key Features:
High Detail: Because the thread is thinner, we can capture tiny details and small text that embroidery simply cannot.
Smooth Surface: There is no raised texture; the patch feels flat and smooth to the touch.
Lightweight: They are thinner and more flexible than embroidered patches, making them great for lightweight sportswear.
✅ Best For: Complex logos, designs with small text, detailed artwork, and soccer/sportswear badges.
Embroidered vs Woven Patches: The Main Differences
Still undecided? Let’s compare them directly across the factors that matter most to your business.
1. Level of Detail
Embroidered: Uses thicker thread. Like drawing with a marker. Good for bold shapes, but small text can become unreadable.
Woven: Uses fine thread. Like drawing with a fine-point pen. Perfect for intricate designs, gradients, and tiny lettering.
2. Texture and Feel
Embroidered: Has a classic, “raised” 3D feel. It looks heavy and substantial.
Woven: Flat and smooth. It looks modern and clean but lacks the 3D lift.
3. Cost (B2B Price Guide)
Generally, Woven Patches are slightly cheaper than Embroidered patches, especially in large bulk orders. This is because they use less material and production time is faster. However, for small batches, the price difference is negligible.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Embroidered Patches | Woven Patches |
| Look | Classic, 3D, Raised | Modern, Flat, Smooth |
| Detail Level | Medium (Bold designs) | High (Fine details & text) |
| Thread Thickness | Thick | Thin |
| Best Uses | Uniforms, Hats, Jackets | Sportswear, Complex Logos |
| Cost | Standard | Slightly Lower |
Which One Should You Choose?
Here is our expert advice from the factory floor:
Choose Embroidered Patches if:
You want the classic, traditional “patch” look.
Your design is simple with bold letters.
You are putting the patches on hats, denim, or heavy jackets.
Choose Woven Patches if:
Your design has a lot of information, small text, or complex details.
You want a patch that is thin, flexible, and lightweight.
You are looking for the most cost-effective option for a large promo event.
Ready to Start Your Project?
At PatchCraftPro, we own the machines for both processes. Whether you need the classic look of embroidery or the high-definition detail of woven labels, we offer direct factory pricing with no middleman.
Still not sure? Send us your design! Our team will review your artwork and recommend the best method for your specific logo.
Still deciding between Embroidered vs Woven Patches? Contact us today!
