Hobbies And Interests
Things You'll Need
Instructions
Finding Patches Online
Know the patches you're interested in locating. Be wary of fakes and unscrupulous patch dealers. According to Ben's Patch Collection, some patches can be slightly different even when they're supposed to be identical. Pay attention to the size and runs of each patch.
Search online by using a search engine, such as Google or Yahoo!, to find websites of patch collections, retail patch store locations or patch selling websites. Some patch collectors also swap and trade patches. Enter "patches," "collectible patches" or "embroidered patches" into the search engine. If you collect "advertising patches" or "vintage patches," enter those phrases into the search engine. If you're looking for specific patches, such as "police patches" or "fire patches," narrow your search from the beginning by entering those phrases into the search engine.
Visit the first website on the resulting list from your online search. Click on the website link and browse. If you don't find what you're looking for, click on your back key, and return to the original lists of websites. Select the next one. You can find patches for sale at online auction sites as well. If you wish to visit a physical store, search the website site map for a store locator, store address or phone number.
Finding Patches In-Person
Search your local telephone book or an online search engine for antique stores, flea markets or collectible shops that might have old embroidered patches in your area.
Call the number in the telephone book or of the customer service department listed on the website.
Ask if the store carries old embroidered patches before you drive to the store. You can cut down on disappointment and save yourself money and gas by asking before visiting the store. If the store owner or manager doesn't know if they have patches or not, you'll need to visit the store location.
Visit the store location. Many patches are stored behind glass in display cases, or in vinyl-sleeved ring binders to eliminate the need for customers to handle every patch. Storing embroidered patches behind glass protects the old embroidered patch from dust and handling, and also eliminates the store owner's theft worries.