Ordering custom embroidered patches sounds simple, until you hit the coverage options. Suddenly, you’re faced with numbers: 50%, 75%, 100%. What do they actually mean? And which one makes sense for your patch design?
Let’s make it easy.
Whether you’re ordering for a company event, biker crew, or clothing brand, this guide breaks down what embroidery coverage is, how it affects your patch, and when each option makes sense.
What Does “Embroidery Coverage” Mean?
Embroidery coverage is how much of your custom embroidered patch’s fabric gets stitched over with thread.
Think of your patch as a canvas. Coverage is how much of that canvas is “painted” with thread.
- 50% Coverage: Half of the patch shows stitching; the other half shows base fabric.
- 75% Coverage: Most of the patch is stitched, but some background still shows.
- 100% Coverage: Every inch of the patch is thread, no background peeking through.
The higher the coverage, the more threadwork involved. That affects the look, the texture, and yes, the price.
Why Coverage Even Matters
Coverage isn’t just a design detail. It impacts a few things:
- Visual impact: More thread = richer, fuller look.
- Durability: More thread can add thickness and strength.
- Cost: Higher coverage means more thread, more stitching time, and usually, a higher price.
- Turnaround time: Complex patches take longer to produce.
Choosing the right coverage can save you money, or make your patch pop. Or both.
When to Go with 50% Coverage
Best for: Simple logos, light text, small designs
Let’s say you’re ordering patches with a short message and maybe a small graphic, like a name tag or basic logo. That’s a good fit for 50%.
You’ll have the design stitched over the base fabric, which stays visible in the background. It keeps things simple and neat.
Why it works:
- Cheaper than full coverage
- Faster to produce
- Clean, minimal look
Watch out if:
- Your design has lots of color or detail
- You want a bold, “wow” effect
This option is all about subtlety and savings. If you’re tight on budget or like minimal design, 50% has your back.
So, now as you know a bit about patch coverage have a gaze on Top 5 Trending Custom Embroidered Patch Designs You’ll See Everywhere in 2025.
When 75% Coverage Is the Sweet Spot
Best for: Detailed logos, medium-size text, colorful elements
This is the middle ground. You get the texture and punch of embroidery without going all-in.
You’ll still see bits of the fabric base, but most of the design area will be covered. This balance keeps costs lower while still offering great visuals.
Why it works:
- More depth and color
- Enough stitching to bring your design to life
- Less cost than full coverage
Watch out if:
- You want a patch that feels premium
- Your design has a complex background or gradient
75% coverage is great for most business logos, uniforms, or merch. It’s the “just right” of embroidery.
When 100% Coverage is Worth It
Best for: High-end branding, bold patches, showpieces
If you’re going for full effect, eye-popping, high-contrast, professional-looking patches, this is the one.
With every inch covered in thread, your design stands out. These patches feel thicker and often last longer because they’re reinforced with all that stitching.
Why it works:
- Total design control
- Premium texture and color saturation
- Looks and feels expensive
Watch out if:
- You’re trying to save money
- Your design is super simple
100% coverage is ideal for jackets, caps, club gear, or brand merch where visuals really matter.
How to Choose the Right Base Fabric
Coverage and fabric work together. If your design uses lower coverage, the base fabric becomes part of the design. So you’ll want one that looks good on its own.
For 50% or 75%, go with a fabric color that complements your design.
For 100%, it doesn’t matter much, you won’t see the fabric at all.
What’s the Price Difference?
Here’s a rough idea:
- 50% Coverage: Budget-friendly. Least thread, shortest production time.
- 75% Coverage: Mid-tier price. More thread, still manageable turnaround.
- 100% Coverage: Highest price. Max thread, longest production time.
But it’s not always a huge jump. Especially when ordering in bulk, the per-unit cost difference between 75% and 100% may be smaller than expected.
Might be interested in knowing Top Embroidered Patches Ideas to Upgrade Any Item.
Design Examples to Help You Decide
- 50% Coverage
Good: Name patches, event tags, simple logos
Not good: Multicolor artwork or tiny fonts - 75% Coverage
Good: School mascots, brand logos, staff uniforms
Not good: Hyper-detailed or photo-like designs - 100% Coverage
Good: Statement patches, biker back patches, merch branding
Not good: Small or budget projects
What About Patch Size?
The bigger the patch, the more coverage matters.
A 3″ circle with 100% coverage? Looks rich.
A 10″ back patch with 100% coverage? That’s a production beast, and it’ll cost more too.
Balance size and coverage based on where the patch will be worn and what impression you want it to make.
Can You Mix Coverage Types in One Order?
Not exactly.
Each design needs its own setup. So if you want 100% coverage for a back patch and 50% for a name tag, they’d be treated as separate products.
But ordering them together can still help with overall pricing and shipping.
Our Take (And What We Recommend Most)
At Patch Makers UK, we see 75% coverage hit the sweet spot most often. It gives you enough thread to show off your design without maxing out your budget.
That said, if you’re going for a standout piece, or branding is key, 100% is absolutely worth it.
And if it’s a basic tag or simple ID patch? 50% is all you need.
FAQs
Q: Will 50% coverage look cheap?
A: Not at all, if your design fits the format. Simple text or logos look clean and pro with partial stitching.
Q: Is 100% embroidery harder to sew on?
A: Not really. It may feel a bit thicker, but it sews just like any other patch.
Q: Can I get a sample before I commit?
A: Absolutely. Patch Makers UK offers free mockups and sample options so you can see before you buy.
Q: Does higher coverage mean it’ll last longer?
A: Slightly, yes. More stitching means more durability, but all our patches are made to last.
Match Coverage to the Job
Choosing the right embroidery coverage isn’t about what’s “best.” It’s about what’s best for your patch.
Keep it simple for basic jobs. Go bold for premium branding. Or land in the middle with 75% for a strong balance.
Need help deciding? Our team at Patch Makers UK can guide you, mock up options, and help you get exactly what you want, no guesswork.
Prepared to create a patch that fits your style and your budget? Start Your Order Now!
