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How to Make Custom Boy Scout Patches

Patches are a fun way to identify participants in certain Boy Scout events, to identify Boy Scout patrols or just to make a statement. Custom patches can be expensive and it may take several weeks to actually get the patches in hand. Making your own custom patches is a great alternative to ordering patches. While embroidery machines are costly, chances are that someone in your Boy Scout troop may already own one and would be perfectly willing to create patches for your Boy Scout troop. If you̵7;ve toyed with the idea of purchasing an embroidery machine, perhaps making patches for your Boy Scout troop is the exact excuse you need for making that purchase.

Things You'll Need

Sketchpad
Pencil
Colored pencils
Scanner
Digitizing software
Computer
Embroidery sewing machine
Blank patch
Thread, multiple colors
Double adhesive sheets
Scissors

Instructions

Custom Boy Scout Patches
- 1
  Create a full color design. Always be mindful of the patch̵7;s size and shape while designing. Patches are available in several shapes and sizes, so choose a patch that will suit your needs. Some Boy Scout patches may be used yearly. Either omit the date from these kinds of patches, or at the very least, design the date area so that it can be easily changed, if needed.
- 2
  Scan the finished design into your computer. Use a digitizing program to convert the image into a digital design. Many embroidery machines have the capability to use digitizing programs. Always make sure that your embroidery machine is compatible with your desired digitizing software before purchase. Consult local sewing machine centers for advice about which programs work best for your particular machine.
- 3
  Program the sewing machine with your newly digitized design. Most embroidery machines will list the exact colors that are needed for your design, make sure to use the recommended thread colors in order to keep your design cohesive.
- 4
  Affix the blank patch inside the appropriate sewing area. Embroidery machines have specialized sewing frames for both small and large embroidery projects. Always use the appropriate size sewing frame. Remember that the area to be sewed should fit snugly inside the sewing frames.
- 5
  Start the embroidery sewing machine and allow it to work while you assemble the double adhesive sheets. Transfer the completed patch or patches to a staging area before beginning the next step.
- 6
  Remove one side of film from the double adhesive sheets. Place the patch onto the sheet and press the patch down firmly. If creating more than one patch, postpone this step until you have completed several patches. Cut the patches away from the double adhesive sheet material.

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