Custom Name Patches Made to Order for Any Name and Quantity
One name or a whole team list, with a free proof first.
Custom name patches made to order, from one name to thousands. Pick the backing, size and thread. Get a free proof in 24 hours.
NAME FORMATS
Name Patch, Name Tape or Name Badge: Which Do You Need?
Buyers use three words for one idea. A name patch, a name tape and a name badge all carry a name. They differ in shape and in where they are worn.
Pick the format first. Then pick the backing, size and thread. That order saves you a round of changes.
| Format | Typical shape | Best for | Backing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Name patch | Oval or rectangle | Uniforms, hats, bags | Velcro, iron-on, sew-on |
| Name tape | Long, narrow strip | Chest strips on uniforms | Velcro or sewn |
| Name badge | UK word for patch | UK work and school wear | Any backing |
| Name tag patch | Small label shape | Bags and jackets | Iron-on or velcro |
| Text-only strip | One short line | Last name only | Sewn |
- Chest strip with last name: tape
- Swappable names: velcro patch
- Gift with a script name: patch
- UK paperwork: ask for a badge
- Name patch
- A patch with a name, and sometimes a second line or icon.
- Name tape
- A long strip that holds one short line of text.
- Name badge
- The UK word for a name patch. Not a plastic pin.
A name tape or a small patch.
A velcro name patch.
A script name patch.
Custom Name Tapes: The Long, Narrow Strip
A tape suits a short last name. It sits flat across a chest. A second line needs a taller patch.
| Strip size | Text | Backing |
|---|---|---|
| About 1 x 4 in | Last name | Velcro or sewn |
| Longer strips | Longer last names | Sewn |
| Taller patch | Two lines | Any backing |
- Short last names fit best
- One line of text only
- Pick a bold, plain font
A tape is a shape, not a material. It can carry velcro or be sewn. It uses the same polyester twill as other patches.
| Format | Where | Typical text |
|---|---|---|
| Name patch | Chest, hat or bag | First or full name |
| Name tape | Uniform chest | Last name |
| Name badge | UK shirts and coats | First name |
Not sure which you need? Describe the garment and the name. We suggest a format when you request a quote.
BACKING CHOICE
Velcro, Iron-On or Sew-On: Pick the Backing for a Name Patch
Custom name patches come with velcro, iron-on or sew-on backing. The right one depends on how often the name changes. It also depends on how often the garment is washed.
| Backing | Swap the name? | Wash-proof? | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Velcro | Yes, easily | Remove before washing | ID badges, shared gear |
| Iron-on | No | Add stitches for hard use | Cotton work shirts |
| Sew-on | No | Strongest hold | Weekly-wash uniforms |
| Velcro plus loop panel | Yes, any name | Panel is sewn on | Staff who rotate |
- Hook side
- The rough half of velcro. It sits on the patch.
- Loop panel
- The soft half of velcro. It sits on the garment.
- Heat-activated adhesive
- Glue that melts under heat and bonds to fabric.
- Backstitch
- A strong stitch that locks the patch edge.
Custom Velcro Name Patches for Swappable ID Badges
Velcro comes in two parts. The hook side sits on the patch. The loop panel sits on the garment.
Pros
- Swap names between staff
- Reuse the loop panel
- Quick on and off
- Good for shared jackets
Limits
- Hook side can snag fabric
- Remove before washing
- Needs a sewn loop panel
- Slightly thicker patch
| Garment | Best backing | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Cotton work shirt | Iron-on plus stitches | Heat bonds cotton |
| Nylon jacket | Sew-on or velcro | Nylon limits heat |
| Lab coat | Sew-on | Frequent hot washes |
| Fleece vest | Velcro | Loop panel fits |
Custom Iron On Name Patches for Cotton Work Shirts
Iron-on adhesive melts with heat and bonds to the fabric. Press with a cloth between iron and patch. Cotton takes it best.
Pros
- Quick to apply with heat
- No sewing skills needed
- Suits cotton and blends
- Low profile on the shirt
Limits
- Heat limits some fabrics
- Weekly washing can lift edges
- Not made for nylon
- Add stitching for hard use
Sew-On Name Patches for Uniforms Washed Every Week
A needle and thread through the border locks the patch in. Match the thread to the border color. Use a backstitch for strength.
Pros
- Strongest hold in the wash
- Suits nylon and poly blends
- Works on lab coats
- No heat on the fabric
Limits
- Takes needle and thread
- Name cannot be swapped
- Takes longer to fit
- Sewing skill helps
Compare more in our sew-on and iron-on guide. See every option in the backing guide.
Mixed runs are possible. One team can have velcro for managers and sew-on for crew. Note the backing per name in your list.
Choose sew-on.
Choose velcro.
Choose iron-on.
- Pick the backing before the proof
- Tell us how often it is washed
- Ask for a loop panel with velcro
Not every garment suits every backing. Check the fabric label. Heat and washing limits decide the choice.
NAME SIZE
How Big Should a Name Patch Be? Size by Name Length
Personalised name patches follow a simple limit. Thread has width. Each letter needs room.
Take Maria as an example. That is 5 letters. At 4 mm, the text is 20 mm wide. Add 28 mm and you get 48 mm, about 1.9 in.
| Name | Letters | Text width (mm) | Patch width (in) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alex | 4 | 14 to 16 | 1.7 |
| Daniel | 6 | 21 to 24 | 2.0 |
| Santiago | 8 | 28 to 32 | 2.4 |
| Maximilian | 10 | 35 to 40 | 2.7 |
| Maria Santos | 11 | 39 to 44 | 2.8 |
| Alexandra Chen | 14 | 49 to 56 | 3.3 |
Patch width equals text width plus margins. We assumed about 28 mm of margin and border. These are estimates, so check them on your proof.
- Short names can use a smaller patch
- Long names need a wider patch
- Add height for a second line
- Count the letters
Include every letter in the line.
- Multiply by 4 mm
Use 3.5 mm for tight fonts.
- Add 28 mm
This covers margin and border.
- Round to a fit
Pick the nearest patch width.
Neat on a chest. Long names squeeze.
Easy to read. Needs more shirt space.
Fits two lines. Looks more like a badge.
- Text width
- The length of the name in millimeters.
- Margin
- Empty space between text and border.
- Border
- The stitched rim around the patch.
- Tight fonts fit more letters
- Wide fonts need more room
- Two lines need a taller patch
- Round up when a name is close
Ask for a proof check when a name sits near the limit. The proof shows the true fit. Changes are free.
FONT AND COLOR
Fonts and Thread Colours That Keep a Name Readable
A personalized name patch must read at arm length. Font and contrast decide that. These are common design practice, not product claims.
| Style | Reads at small size? | Best use |
|---|---|---|
| Sans serif | Yes, very clear | Work shirts and ID badges |
| Serif | Fairly clear | Formal and classic looks |
| Script | Needs more height | Fashion and gifts |
| Thread | Background | Read rating |
|---|---|---|
| White | Navy | Excellent |
| Black | White | Excellent |
| Yellow | Black | Excellent |
| White | Light gray | Weak |
| Red | Dark green | Weak |
| Gold | Brown | Fair |
- Pick strong light and dark contrast
- Bold sans caps read best small
- Avoid mid-tone pairs
- Leave space between letters
Custom embroidered name patches use polyester thread. Pick a thread color first, then check it on the proof.
- Weight
- How thick the letters are. Bold reads better small.
- Letter spacing
- The gap between letters. Wider gaps help small text.
- All caps
- Capital letters only. Easy to read at distance.
- Mixed case
- Capital, then lowercase. Friendlier but smaller.
| Garment color | Strong thread | Weak thread |
|---|---|---|
| Navy | White, yellow | Dark blue |
| Black | White, gold | Dark gray |
| Olive | Black, tan | Dark green |
| Gray | Black, white | Light gray |
| White | Black, navy | Yellow |
Check your pair on the free proof. Screens can hide weak contrast. Hold your phone at arm length to test it.
Thread color sets the mood. Dark thread on a light base looks formal. Bright thread on a dark base looks sporty.
Black on white or gold on navy.
White on navy or black on tan.
Yellow on black or white on red.
- Test the pair at arm length
- Check it in daylight and indoors
- Ask a colleague to read it
Stitch density also affects reading. Dense fill looks solid and bold. Thin fill can look weak on dark fabric.
NAME LISTS
How to Order Many Different Names in One Order
You can order name patches for a whole team in one go. Send one list. Each name becomes its own patch.
A clean list is the key. Use one name per row. Keep extra details in separate columns.
- Collect every name and check the spelling.
- Put the names in a simple list or spreadsheet.
- Add a second line, such as a job title, if needed.
- Choose one backing for the whole run, or note exceptions.
- Upload the list with your artwork and request a quote.
- Review the free proof and approve it.
- Name
- Exactly as it should read on the patch.
- Line 2
- Job title or team. Optional.
- Backing
- Velcro, iron-on or sew-on.
- Quantity
- Usually one per name, or more.
| Name | Line 2 | Backing |
|---|---|---|
| Alex Rivera | Mechanic | Velcro |
| Maria Santos | Nurse | Sew-on |
| Sam Okafor | Pilot | Iron-on |
| Dana Lee | Teacher | Velcro |
| Chris Park | Volunteer | Sew-on |
Ordering One Personalised Name Patch
One name is fine. There is no minimum order. A single patch typically runs $8 to $15.
| Order | Typical price | Note |
|---|---|---|
| One name patch | $8 to $15 | Each, for a single patch |
| 500+ embroidered | From $0.30 | Per patch at volume |
- Type the name exactly
- Pick a backing
- Choose font and thread colors
- Approve the free proof
Single patches suit gifts, replacements and trials. They also suit a new hire. Order an extra if a name might change.
| Do | Avoid |
|---|---|
| One name per row | Names joined in one cell |
| Spell as the wearer writes | Guessed spellings |
| Use consistent capitals | Mixed caps and lowercase |
| Job lines in column 2 | Notes inside the name cell |
Large runs benefit from a second pair of eyes. Ask someone else to read the list. It takes two minutes.
- Gather names early
- Fix spelling before you upload
- Keep one backing per group
- Save a copy of the list
Order a small test set if the list is long. Check the fit on one garment. Then approve the full run.
NAMES AT WORK
Name Patches by Job: Mechanic, Nurse, Pilot, Teacher and Staff
Personalized name patches suit most trades. Each job has a usual spot, backing and name line. The table shows the common choices.
| Job | Usual spot | Backing | Name line |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanic | Chest pocket flap | Sew-on or iron-on | First name |
| Nurse | Left chest on scrubs | Sew-on | First name, title |
| Pilot | Flight jacket chest | Velcro | Last name |
| Teacher | Cardigan or lanyard vest | Velcro | Title and name |
| Retail staff | Apron or shirt | Iron-on | First name |
| Volunteer | Vest front | Velcro | First name |
| Hospitality | Jacket chest | Sew-on | First name |
| School bag | Front pocket | Sew-on or iron-on | First name |
| Gift jacket | Chest or back | Iron-on | Full name, script |
Cotton work shirts take personalized iron on name patches well. Heat bonds quickly. Add a few stitches if the shirt is washed often.
Sew-on names hold through oil and heavy washing.
Sew-on names suit frequent hot laundry.
Velcro names pass between shifts.
- Pick sew-on for weekly washing
- Pick velcro for shared gear
- Keep text large for safety roles
- Match thread to the uniform color
- Mechanic
- Sew-on with bold letters survives grease and hot washes.
- Nurse
- Sew-on names suit scrubs washed on hot cycles.
- Pilot
- Velcro lets crews swap names between jackets.
- Teacher
- Velcro or iron-on both suit cardigans and vests.
- Staff
- Match the backing to how often the shirt is washed.
- Chest pocket flap
- The narrow area above a shirt pocket.
- Left chest
- The standard spot on shirts and scrubs.
- Lanyard vest
- A vest that carries ID and names.
Velcro names move between flight jackets.
Lanyard vests carry velcro names.
Iron-on names suit cotton aprons.
- Ask staff how they wear the garment
- Check how often it is washed
- Confirm the spot before ordering
Names look different on each garment. A cardigan needs a smaller patch than a coverall. Think about the fabric first.
ARMY TAPES
Army Name Tapes: Size, Side, Font and Sewing Rules
Army tapes follow strict rules. The details below come from a summary of DA PAM 670-1. Verify them against the current AR 670-1 and your unit before you order.
| Item | Rule | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Wear spot | Right breast pocket | Above the flap line |
| Alignment | Parallel to the ground | Check it when worn |
| Text | Last name only | No rank or first name |
| Punctuation | None | Keep letters plain |
| Letters | Black block capitals | Per the summary |
| Font | Franklin Gothic extra-condensed | Verify size |
| Pad width | About 5 in hook-and-loop pad | Verify with your unit |
| Backing | Sewn or hook-and-loop | Custom velcro name tapes need unit approval |
Which Side Army Name Tapes Go On and What They Say
- Right breast pocket, above the flap
- Last name only, no first name
- Black block letters, no extras
- Level with the ground when worn
Sewing On or Hook-and-Loop: What the Rule Says
- Sewn tapes are the classic route
- Hook-and-loop follows unit policy
- Do not mix methods on one uniform
- Check the current AR 670-1 rule.
- Confirm your tape size and font.
- Send last names only.
- Approve the free proof.
For wider designs, see our military patch page.
- OCP
- The camouflage pattern on current Army combat uniforms.
- DA PAM 670-1
- The Army pamphlet on uniform wear.
- AR 670-1
- The Army regulation on uniform wear.
- Hook-and-loop
- Velcro, with a hook side and a loop side.
| Item | Send | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Name | Last name only | Rivera |
| Tape color | Match your uniform | Tan or green |
| Font | Per the current rule | Confirm first |
| Backing | Per unit policy | Sewn or velcro |
| Quantity | Count per person | Often more than one |
Tapes are a rule item, not a style item. A wrong size or font can fail inspection. Ask your unit first.
Read the current AR 670-1.
Send last names only.
Confirm placement when worn.
Rules change and summaries lag the source. That is why we flag everything here.
| Mistake | Why it matters | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| First name added | Not allowed per the summary | Last name only |
| Wrong font | May fail inspection | Check the current rule |
| Wrong pad size | May not fit the uniform | Confirm with your unit |
| Punctuation | Breaks the plain rule | Remove it |
- Read the current rule first
- Ask your supervisor
- Order a small test set
- Check fit on the uniform
This section covers tapes only. Camouflage, rank and unit designs live elsewhere. See our military patch page for those.
WHAT IT IS MADE OF
Custom Embroidered Name Patches: Base Fabric, Thread and Border
A name patch is a small sandwich of fabric, thread and backing. Our name patches use a polyester twill base and polyester thread.
- Base
- Polyester twill, a tight diagonal weave.
- Thread
- Polyester thread, stitched in your colors.
- Border
- The finished rim. Types are listed below.
- Backing
- Velcro, iron-on or sew-on, one per patch.
| Border | Look | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Merrowed | Raised, rolled edge | Classic patch look |
| Heat-cut | Flat, sealed edge | Simple shapes |
| Laser-cut | Sharp, precise edge | Detailed outlines |
Border options vary by shape. Ask when you request your quote. We tell you what suits your design.
Polyester twill is a woven fabric with a diagonal rib. It holds its shape under stitching. It is the base under your name.
- Digitize
Your lettering becomes a stitch file.
- Stitch
Thread fills the letters on twill.
- Finish
Border and backing are added.
- Check
The patch is inspected before it ships.
- Base fabric: polyester twill
- Thread: polyester
- Backing: one per patch
- Guarantee: 100% quality
Small patches need careful stitching. Fine text needs tight stitches. Large letters need fewer.
A raised, rolled rim that frames the name.
A flat, sealed rim for simple shapes.
A precise rim for detailed outlines.
Border names are industry terms. Ask which we offer for your shape.
PROOF CHECK
Proof Checklist: 8 Checks Before You Approve a Name
Check custom made name patches before you approve. A typo on personalized name patches means a remake.
- Spelling matches your source list.
- Capital letters are correct.
- Second line is correct.
- Font is easy to read.
- Thread and background contrast well.
- Size fits the name length.
- Backing matches how it will be worn.
- Quantity matches your list.
| Error | How it happens | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Typo in a name | Retyped by hand | Paste from the list |
| Wrong case | All caps by accident | Check the proof |
| Name too tight | Long name, small patch | Widen the patch |
| Wrong backing | Mixed up in the notes | Confirm per name |
- Digital proof
- A preview of your patch before it is made.
- Revision
- A change you request after seeing the proof.
- Approval
- Your OK that starts production.
Read the proof out loud. Read each name backwards too. Typos jump out that way.
Confirms the spelling.
Confirms the list and counts.
Confirm backing and quantity.
- Print the proof and mark it
- Ask the wearer to confirm
- Check line 2 as well
- Confirm the final count
Your free proof arrives within 24 hours. You can request changes as often as needed. Nothing is made until you approve.
- Compare names against the source list
- Check line 2 and counts
- Confirm each backing
- Approve only when all clear
Take a moment with every proof. One wrong letter is easy to miss. Two reads catch most errors.
- Spelling is final once production starts
- Revisions are free before approval
READY TO ORDER
Send Your Name List and Get a Free Proof
Upload Artwork
Send any common file format.
Approve Your Proof
Free digital proof within 24 hours.
We Ship Worldwide
Standard 10 to 14 business days. Rush in 5.
Order custom name patches no minimum, from one name to 100,000. See rates on the pricing page or start from our home page.
No minimum. Free proof in 24 hours. 10-14 business days. Duty-free shipping.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Name Patch Questions, Answered
What are military name tapes?
Military name tapes are last-name strips worn on the chest of a uniform. They are sewn on or hook-and-loop. Army rules are in the section above. See our military patch page.
Which side do Army name tapes go on?
They go on the right breast pocket, above the flap line. Keep them parallel to the ground. This comes from a DA PAM 670-1 summary. Verify against the current AR 670-1 and your unit rules before ordering.
What font does the U.S. Army use for name tapes?
A DA PAM 670-1 summary lists black block letters in Franklin Gothic extra-condensed. For 11 or more letters it lists 48 point, or 1/2 in. Verify against the current rule before ordering.
Where can I find custom name tapes?
We make made-to-order tapes and patches. Upload your names and approve a free proof within 24 hours. There is no minimum order, so one tape is fine.
How do I order a single personalised name patch?
One name is fine. Type the name, pick a backing, then approve the proof. A single patch typically runs $8 to $15.
How to make a name patch?
Stitch letters onto twill by machine or hand. It takes tools and practice. Prefer to skip that? We make it to order. See our how-to guide.
How do I sew names onto clothes?
Pin the patch in place. Whip or backstitch around the border. Match your thread color. Remove the pins last. See the sewing guide.
Velcro or sew-on name patches: which is better?
Choose custom name patches velcro for badges you swap between staff. Choose sew-on for items washed every week. Velcro swaps fast. Sew-on holds longest.
What size should a name patch be?
Allow 3.5 to 4 mm per letter. Add about 28 mm for margins and border. A 3 in patch fits about 12 letters. Treat this as a rule of thumb.
Can I order different names in one order?
Yes. Send a name list. Each name becomes its own patch. You can note a backing for each name. Check the spelling carefully on the free proof.
Where can I get custom name patches?
Order online from us. Upload your names, get a free proof in 24 hours, and ship worldwide duty-free. For other routes, see our buying guide.
Where can I order U.S. Army name tapes?
We make custom tapes. For regulation wear, check your unit rules first. Then upload the last names. See our military patch page.
How many letters fit on a 3 inch name patch?
About 12 letters at 4 mm per letter. At 3.5 mm you get 14. That is after margins. This is an estimate. Check it on your proof.
What thread colour reads best on a navy shirt patch?
White or bright yellow on a dark base. Avoid mid-tone pairs like gray on blue. Strong light-dark contrast reads best. See the contrast pairs earlier on this page.
KEEP EXPLORING