Where can I get custom gi patches printed and what method & fabric should I use?
I want to make some custom patches with my grappling club's (@ college) logo on it to patch on my gis.
And maybe some RVCA logos too because I love RVCA but idk if it would be a good idea...
From what I know, patches can be made in one of three ways:
1. Screen printed onto a sheet of canvas cloth
2. dye sub printed onto synthetic cloth with backing to make it stiff
3. Embroidered onto twill and backing added.
I'm sure there are other techniques but those seem to be the main ones.
I've researched prices and patches for couple years for various clients. Dye sub printed patches can be made singly, or in large numbers. They are very durable and will not fade, crack or peel over time. The colours in my opinion tend not to be very strong though, it depends on the design. Basic reds, blacks, whites etc are ok but if you have a design with lots of gradients, lighter tone colours and photo-realistic images, they don't turn out so good imo.
Screen printed patches are generally not so durable, eventually deteriorating over time, but they are very cheap if you order a bunch from a good general screen printers. You pay by the colour so stick to basic designs.
Embroidered patches are by comparison the more expensive option, again you can get one made or hundreds, just depends on what you are willing to pay. Again, you pay by colour number, thread count, and extras like plastic backing or not and other frills.
Hope this helps. Oh and you are not technically allowed to use a trademarked logo without permission, but for personal use, who's gonna know?
