Embroidery coverage is a term you will come across when ordering custom patches for your business, team, or a personal project. It affects the appearance of your custom patch design.
For those who are new to custom patching apparel, it is pretty normal for them to wonder what this term means and why it is important. It compares the amount of thread used on a patch to the visible fabric, usually twill.
Understanding of embroidered patch coverage helps you decide what would suit your artwork, budget, and the way you want the design to look. Reading this guide (written about the differences between 50% embroidery coverage, 75% embroidery coverage, and 100% embroidery coverage) helps you solve any confusion.
What is Embroidered Patch Coverage?
So, you want to know about custom patches? Well, let’s start with how an embroidered patch is made. It is made with a base layer of a strong twill fabric. Then the design is sewn on.
When embroidered patch coverage is mentioned, it means how much of that twill fabric is actually covered by the embroidered thread. If less thread is used, you can still see a lot of the base fabric.
If more thread is used, the custom patch becomes thicker, and it has a lot more texture to it. The custom patch coverage is as vital as the custom patch size, because it affects how the custom patch looks and feels.
Simple and Cheaper 50% Embroidery Coverage
If you want a design with 50% embroidery coverage, half of the patch is covered in thread only. The other half is the plain fabric, so the background color matches it. This type of design is best for things like text, basic logos, name tags, and sewn patch designs with a lot of negative space and few details.
The smooth fabric and the raised thread make a classic and vintage texture that you can see and feel.
This design does not use a lot of thread and takes less time to make. Hence, it is a cheaper option.
Industry Standard 75% Embroidery Coverage
At 75% embroidery coverage, the industry standard balance is achieved where more than half of the patch is covered in thread, but some of the base twill fabric remains visible for most custom patch designs.
This technique works best for business logos, sports team emblems, and ironed patch designs where the background color is a small part of the overall patch.
The look features heavy embroidery with a professionally balanced decorative stitching technique that brings out a rich texture. Twill is visible enough to give a contrast.
It is the best option between a premium feel and an affordable price point.
Premium 100% Embroidery Patches
Go for 100% embroidery coverage to hide the entire twill fabric with thread. The backing material is hidden. The background of the patch is fully stitched.
This coverage offers highly detailed artwork in the form of military patches, motorcycle club patches, and intricate design patches with color shading that is complex.
They have a texture that is thick and luxurious. They are heavy and appear more premium because of the excessive needle stitching.
Being the most expensive option due to a high thread count, they are the most durable and visually appealing design options to choose from and are excellent for Velcro patches.
Which Should You Choose?
Below is a quick breakdown of the options, so you can find how the three of them compare and choose easily between them:
| Coverage | Amount of Thread | Visible Twill Backing | Best Use Case | Price Point |
| 50% | Low | High (50%+) | Text, basic shapes, name tags | Most Affordable |
| 75% | Medium | Low (Under 50%) | Standard logos, balanced designs | Mid-Range |
| 100% | High | None | Complex art, premium branding | Premium |
Pro Tip: For a solid color background design, save money by choosing 50% or 75% coverage with a matching twill fabric that serves as the background color.
FAQs
What does embroidery coverage mean?
It is the amount of embroidery thread stitched across the entire surface of your patch. The higher the percentage, the less twill fabric is visible.
What is the difference between 50% and 100% embroidery coverage?
The 50% coverage is lighter and cheaper, and the background is visible. However, 100% coverage is more textured and hides the background completely with a lot of needling.
What is the safety option for embroidery coverage?
To be on the safe side, opt for 75% coverage, which is considered to be the industry standard. It allows a slight view of your twill fabric background and is more textured.
What embroidery coverage percentage works better for different fabrics?
Depending on the fabric strength, embroidery coverage percentage is decided. 50% works best for cotton, 75% works best for denim, and 100% works better for leather.
Ace the Coverage Percentage Selection
Choosing the right embroidery coverage depends on the complexity and budget of your artwork. For a simple and classic design, 50% or 75% coverage will work perfectly. Choosing 100% embroidery coverage patches is absolutely worth the investment for a bold and textured finish.
To place orders for fine finishes and durable custom patches in the USA, The American Patch is the go-to choice for thousands of customers. We provide a free mockup of your design and free shipping to your address.
Stop scratching your head. Let us help you choose the right percentage option for your custom patch coverage!
