Custom Patches and Challenge Coins
Custom Military Patches and Challenge Coins - Which Option Should You Choose?
When ordering custom patches or challenge coins, the right choice depends on how the item will be used, how much detail is in the artwork, the quantity required and the finish you want.
At Cadetshop and Wedgetail, we supply custom patches and challenge coins for military units, cadet units, clubs, groups and organisations. Our patches are made with practical use in mind, with Velcro backing and badge edging as standard. Shoulder patches can also be made to suit common ADF-style sizing, including sizes such as 80 x 50mm, 75 x 50mm and 75 x 55mm.
Below is a simple guide to help you choose the right product.
Embroidered patches
Embroidered patches are the traditional military-style patch. They are made with raised stitched thread, giving the patch texture, depth and a professional uniform appearance.
This is usually the best choice when you want a durable patch for regular use. Embroidered patches are especially suitable for uniforms, squadron patches, unit identity patches, gifts and long-term wear.
The main advantage of embroidery is durability. Embroidered patches are the longest wearing patch option and are well suited to repeated use. The only limitation is that very small text or fine detail may not reproduce as sharply as other patch types.
Choose embroidered patches if you want the classic military look and the strongest long-term wear.
Woven patches
Woven patches are made with finer threads than embroidery. This allows small text, fine lines, crests and detailed artwork to appear sharper and cleaner.
Unlike embroidered patches, woven patches have a flatter finish. They do not have the same raised stitched look, but they are better when the design includes small wording or complex details that need to remain readable.
Woven patches are a good option for highly detailed insignia, unit patches and designs where clarity is more important than texture.
Choose woven patches if the artwork has fine detail or small text.
PVC patches
PVC patches are moulded rubber-style patches. They have a modern tactical appearance, bold colours and a wipe-clean surface.
PVC is a good choice for outdoor use, field use and designs with strong shapes or simple colour blocks. They are often used for flags, tactical patches, unit identifiers and modern morale patches.
PVC patches are rugged, weather resistant and easy to clean. They are not the same as a traditional stitched patch, but they are a strong choice when you want a modern and durable finish.
Choose PVC patches if you want a tactical rubber-style patch that is tough and easy to maintain.
DTF printed patch
DTF printed patches are printed onto fabric. This option is useful when the artwork has full colour, gradients, photo-style detail or artwork that would be difficult to reproduce with thread.
DTF printed patches are also a good choice for event designs, short runs and lower-quantity orders. They allow more flexibility with colour and artwork than embroidery or woven patches.
They are suitable for display, events and general use, but they are not as long wearing as embroidered patches.
Choose DTF printed patches if you need full colour artwork, gradients, photo-style detail or a lower-quantity option.
48mm challenge coins
Challenge coins are different from patches. They are metal presentation items rather than uniform patches.
Our challenge coins are 48mm, double sided and supplied in a plastic case for protection. They are ideal for awards, gifts, commemorative pieces, unit coins, event coins and presentation items.
A challenge coin is a good choice when you want something more formal or collectible than a patch. The plastic case helps protect the coin from scratches and handling marks.
Choose challenge coins for awards, presentations, commemorations and unit keepsakes.
Which product should you choose?
For maximum durability and a traditional military appearance, choose embroidered patches.
For fine detail and small wording, choose woven patches.
For a rugged modern tactical look, choose PVC patches.
For full colour artwork, gradients or lower-quantity event designs, choose DTF printed patches.
For awards, gifts and commemorative items, choose 48mm challenge coins.
Final advice
The best option depends on the design, intended use, size, colour count and quantity. Some artwork works better as embroidery, while detailed crests or small lettering may be better as woven. Full colour artwork may suit DTF printing, while bold tactical designs may suit PVC.
If you are unsure which option is right for your design, send us your artwork and we can recommend the best production method.
Check out the price and guide here: