Quick answer
You can attach your The Other Side fabric patch using either an iron-on method for quick adhesion or a sew-on method for maximum durability. Both methods work on jackets, bags, display boards, and hobby cases.
Iron-on vs. sew-on: which should you choose?
The iron-on method is faster and requires no sewing skills, but the adhesive may weaken over time with frequent washing or heavy wear. The sew-on method takes a few more minutes but provides a permanent hold that won't peel off. For items that see regular use or machine washing, sewing is the safer choice. For display boards or bags that rarely get washed, iron-on is perfectly adequate.
What you'll need
For either method you'll need your fabric patch, the item you want to attach it to, and a flat heat-safe surface. For iron-on: a household iron and a thin cloth or parchment paper to protect the patch. For sew-on: a needle and thread matching the patch edge, or a sewing machine.
Step-by-step patch application
- 1. Position the patch: Place your patch on the desired spot and check alignment from a few angles. Use a ruler or tape measure if symmetry matters. Mark the corners lightly with a fabric pencil or pin. Common mistake: placing the patch crooked. Always check alignment before applying heat or thread.
- 2. Iron-on method – heat and press: Preheat your iron to the cotton or high setting (no steam). Place a thin cloth or parchment paper over the patch. Press the iron firmly on the patch for 15–20 seconds without sliding. Let it cool for 1 minute, then check adhesion by gently lifting an edge. Common mistake: moving the iron side-to-side, which can shift the patch. Press straight down only.
- 3. Sew-on method – stitch the edge: Thread a needle and knot the end. Starting from the back of the fabric, push the needle up through the patch edge about 1/8 inch in. Use a simple whip stitch or running stitch around the entire perimeter. Space stitches about 1/4 inch apart. Tie off securely on the back side. Common mistake: pulling thread too tight, which puckers the fabric. Keep stitches snug but not taut.
- 4. Care and maintenance: For iron-on patches, hand wash or turn the item inside out and use a gentle machine cycle. Avoid bleach and high heat drying. For sewn patches, you can machine wash normally but still turn inside out to protect the thread. If an iron-on edge starts to lift, re-press with a cloth. Common mistake: machine drying iron-on patches on high heat, which can weaken the adhesive bond.
Patches featured in this guide
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The Other Side: Cult of the Burning Man Fabric Patch: Carry the sigil of glorious instability beyond the tabletop. This compact fabric patch brings the Cult of the Burning Man's unmistakable identity to jackets, bags, display boards, and hobby cases. The 2-inch size fits easily on most gear, and the fabric material accepts both iron-on adhesive and stitching without fraying.
The Other Side: Cult of the Burning Man Fabric Patch
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The Other Side: King's Empire Fabric Patch: Put the Crown's colors on the gear that follows you to war. This compact fabric patch brings the King's Empire's disciplined identity to jackets, bags, display boards, and hobby cases. The same 2-inch fabric construction means you can use identical application steps for any faction patch, making it easy to build a themed collection.
The Other Side: King's Empire Fabric Patch
