The 'film' on the back of your patches is the state of the adhesive until heat is applied. [Note: Some patches may have a white paper backing: these require no ironing. Remove the paper before carefully placing the patch exactly where you want it to stay. These can also be ironed on for added security.]

1. Prep the Iron: Set iron to hot/cotton setting. Iron-on patches work best with materials like cotton and polyester but can seriously damage fabrics like nylon, rayon, or rain jacket material. If possible, test the iron on the fabric in an inconspicuous place. Industrial irons are much hotter, check manufacturers' recommendations for heat setting. Use a dry iron – no steam!

2. Position the Patch: It’s important to choose the perfect position for your patch. Skipping this step can result in your hard work going to waste. If you’re centering the patch, use a measuring tape to ensure it’s in the right spot. For sleeves and lapels, consider pinning the patch in place and checking yourself in the mirror to make sure the patch is right side up and in a position you like.

3. Use a Pressing Cloth: To protect both the fabric’s surface and the patch, place a pressing cloth (you can also use a cotton pillowcase) between the patch and the iron. Press the iron downward and hold it in place for 15 to 30 seconds, let cool slightly and check for adherence – repeat if necessary. Be careful not to move the iron around since this can inadvertently shift the position of the patch.

4. Flip and Repeat: Once the patch is affixed to the fabric, turn the item of clothing inside out and lay it flat on your ironing board. Position the pressing cloth over the reverse side of the patch and repeat step three. Once the patch is securely attached to the garment, allow it to cool completely before wearing.

5. Consider Sewing Around the Edges: For a completely secure patch, use a sewing machine or a needle and thread to secure the patch to the fabric. This greatly reduces the chances that the patch will fall off; instead of stitching around the entire patch, you can 'tack' down the corners with a single stitch or two to prevent curling due to wash and/or wear.

NOTE: In special situations, such as if the fabric cannot withstand heat, you may prefer to (or also) use a fabric adhesive such as E6000.