Honor Loyalty & Dedication With Custom Police Patches

Custom patches have become increasingly popular over the past several years. While often seen on the uniforms of employees, military members, and firefighters, one particular type of patch gets everyone's attention. Police patches are among the most common and popular patches created. Several pieces make up a law enforcement uniform, including the badge, nameplate, ranking stripes, specialty patches, medals, pen, handcuffs, and more. Each item represents something and is worn for a reason. Besides the badge, patches are one item that officers find the most meaningful. Patches are worn in honor of people, events, and memorable moments. They can be worn or collected, serving as a reminder to embody something bigger than themselves. 

Patches are also a great way to honor those who make our cities and communities much safer. Today we examine police patches, their meaning, and a handful of useful tips for designing them. Patches tell a story, even police patches. Police patches commemorate special moments in an officer's career and serve as an important means of identification. A police patch, typically worn on the sleeve, indicates the department and other information that pertains to the officer. These patches will also feature unique details to the department, including insignia, logos, mottos, and other elements. Police officers are also seen with nameplate patches that further identify them to the community. 

In terms of design, police patches come in a variety of designs. The most frequent size for a police patch is 4″ to 5″ inches in height. This size is big enough to clearly see every detail on the patch, including text and imagery. The shield shape is the most common amongst police officers. The shield represents honor and integrity, adding even more appeal and meaning to the patch. The shape also works well with designs that require 75% embroidery coverage or 100% embroidery coverage. The shield also symbolizes protection and bravery, making it a powerful symbol for custom police patches. 

These days, most police uniforms are made from a nylon material. Nylon is a bit more delicate than cotton, which means iron-on patches should not be used. The heat used to adhere to iron-on patches could cause damage to your garment. The best backing option for polyester, nylon, and spandex is a sew-on backing, though adhesive backing or Velcro backing is just as effective. These backings will ensure that the patch stays in play, seamlessly applying to your uniform in the process. 

There is a bevy of options when it comes to custom patches. One of the most common special options for police patches is merrowed borders. A merrowed border is perfect for patches in any shape, especially for circles, rectangles, squares, and triangles. The merrowed border provides a clean, finished, and polished look that overlocks the patch edge. Not only does it look great, but it also prevents unwanted frayed edges and provides added durability to your design. However, merrowed borders are not recommended for a custom patch with 100% embroidery coverage. 

If you are unsure about embroidery coverage, let's take a closer look. There are three options for embroidery coverage: 50%, 75%, or 100%. 50% means that 50% or less of the patch surface area will be covered in embroidery. This is the most cost-effective option and is used for patches with a simple design. Many police patches are crafted using 75% embroidery coverage, which means 75% or less of the patch surface area will be covered. This is the standard and most widely used. 100% means that 100% of the patch surface area is covered, and it's the most expensive option of the three. Now that you've got a better handle on custom patches' design aspect let's talk about uniform guidelines. 

There are several rules and guidelines to follow when creating and applying police patches. Many of the patches are mandatory and must be placed in a specific area on the uniform. For example, shoulder patches must be worn on the left sleeve. These patches must be set half an inch below the shoulder seam. Of course, there are guidelines and regulations about the design of the patch too. Most departments want their uniforms to be the same, which leaves little room for creative freedom. There are over 18,000 police departments and law enforcement agencies in the United States, which means no two patches are the same. Each department has its own patch, designed to represent the department in a unique way. Every officer wears at least one patch, but those with special ranks or members of a special uniform may have more than one patch. And, did you know that dogs and horses on the police force wear patches as well? 

Here at Patches4Less.com, we have provided custom police patches to officers around the country. We have produced police patches of all sorts, from patches for stations, particular units, and even charity events. Here you will find everything you need to design patches exactly to your liking. You are not limited on size or shape, and we also offer a range of thread colors, backing options, and other unique elements. This means your patches will come out exactly how you envisioned them. The best part is that ordering is easy and effortless. We offer free artwork and design, free revisions, and free shipping to anywhere in the continental United States. If you are ready to get started, we are ready to help. 

Simply choose your patch style, fill out our free quote form, review your free digital proof, and confirm your order. Simple right? Well, if you have any questions, give us a call toll-free at 866-847-2824 or email us. Let us show you how easy ordering patches is!