PVC patches
Custom PVC Patches Built for Rugged Use
A PVC patch starts as a custom metal mold cut from your artwork. Liquid PVC is filled color by color into the mold and cured with heat, creating separate raised and recessed levels. Because each color sits in its own cavity, edges stay sharp and colors never bleed into one another.
PVC is the right choice when a patch must survive the elements. It does not absorb water, wipes clean, resists UV fading, and keeps its shape after years on a backpack or plate carrier. It is also excellent for designs with small text and clean graphic shapes, since molded edges hold detail that thread cannot.
You can choose between 2D and 3D molding. A 2D patch has two or more flat layers, like a classic emblem. A 3D patch adds sculpted, rounded surfaces — useful for faces, mascots and logos where depth tells the story.
Because a mold is made for every new design, PVC has a one-time mold fee that we show separately on your quote. Reorders reuse the same mold, so repeat orders are faster and more economical.
Special effects
PVC can be produced with glow-in-the-dark compounds, metallic finishes, and translucent or infrared-reflective layers on request. Colors are matched to Pantone references for consistency between batches.
Why choose pvc patches
- Waterproof and easy to wipe clean
- Bright colors that resist sun fading
- Sharp, raised detail with no thread fraying
- Flexible and comfortable on curved surfaces
- 2D or sculpted 3D molding
Recommended applications
- Tactical and outdoor gear
- Morale patches and collectibles
- Bags, backpacks and luggage tags
- Hats and beanies for outdoor brands
- Search and rescue and marine teams
Materials
Made from soft PVC (polyvinyl chloride) compound, filled color by color into a precision metal mold and heat-cured. Typical thickness is around 2–3 mm. Specialty compounds include glow-in-the-dark and metallic effects.
Size guidance
Common sizes run from 2 to 4 inches; morale patches are frequently 2 × 3 or 3 × 3 inches to fit standard loop panels. PVC handles fine lines well, but keep raised detail at least about 1 mm wide so it molds cleanly.
Quantities & pricing
Minimum order is 10 patches per design. Because the mold fee is a fixed one-time cost, larger quantities reduce the effective cost per patch considerably.
Artwork recommendations
Vector artwork is strongly preferred for PVC because it is used to cut the mold. Limit gradients — each color is a separate solid fill. Tell us which parts should be raised and which recessed, or let our designers propose a layering plan in your proof.
Simple process
How to order pvc patches
- 1
Share your idea
Send your logo, a sketch or just a description. Tell us the size, quantity and where the patch will be worn.
- 2
Get your free quote
We recommend the right patch style, backing and border, then send clear pricing — usually within one business day.
- 3
Approve a digital proof
Our artists prepare a detailed proof showing colors, thread and size. Nothing is produced until you approve it.
- 4
Production & delivery
Your patches are made, inspected and shipped to your door anywhere in the United States.
Examples
PVC patch projects
Popular with
Who orders pvc patches
FAQ
PVC patch FAQs
Are PVC patches really waterproof?
Yes. PVC does not absorb water, so the patch itself will not soak through, fade or warp in rain. The backing you choose (for example hook-and-loop) affects how it attaches, not its water resistance.
Why is there a mold fee?
Each PVC design needs its own metal mold. The mold fee is a one-time charge for that tooling and is shown separately on your quote. Reorders of the same design reuse the mold.
Can PVC patches be ironed on?
No. Heat can deform PVC, so we do not offer iron-on backing for PVC patches. Hook-and-loop, sew-on and adhesive backings are the best options.
What is the difference between 2D and 3D PVC?
2D PVC uses flat layers at different heights. 3D PVC adds sculpted, rounded surfaces, which suits faces, mascots and logos where depth adds character.
Ready to order pvc patches?
Tell us about your design and get a free, no-obligation quote. Minimum order is just 10 patches per design.