What Is the Best Patch Making Machine for Custom Embroidery?
If you’re planning to start or grow a custom patch business, choosing the right patch making machine is crucial. The machine you select will determine how quickly you can fulfill orders, the quality of your embroidery, and how easily you can handle bulk production.
For hobbyists making a few patches a week, a single-needle machine might be enough. But for businesses creating hundreds or even thousands of patches, investing in a multi-needle commercial embroidery machine is the best choice. These machines are faster, handle multiple colors at once, and produce professional-grade results.
Why Choose a Multi-Needle Commercial Patch Making Machine?
There are countless embroidery machines on the market, but not all are built for patches. Multi-needle commercial machines stand out for a few key reasons:
Speed & Efficiency: They allow you to complete high-volume orders quickly.
Multi-Color Support: Easily switch between colors without stopping to re-thread.
Durability: Designed for continuous use without breakdowns.
Advanced Features: Many include touchscreen controls, design editing, and connectivity options.
Think of it as reinvesting in your success — while the upfront cost is higher, the long-term returns make it a smart business move.
Why You Need a Commercial Embroidery Machine for Patches
If your goal is to scale a profitable patch business, a commercial embroidery machine isn’t optional—it’s essential. These machines are:
Built for large-scale production.
Capable of intricate designs and fine details.
Flexible with different hoop sizes and patch dimensions.
One of the most popular options is the Avancé 1501C, a 15-needle embroidery machine known for its speed, precision, and scalability. It comes with multiple hoops, built-in editing software, and wireless connectivity, making it ideal for professional patch creation.
Key Features to Look for in a Patch Making Machine
Before you buy, consider these factors carefully:
1. Budget and Financing
Treat the machine as an investment. Explore financing if needed, but don’t compromise on quality.
2. Hoop Sizes
Choose a machine that offers various hoop options so you can create both small and large patches.
3. Needle Count
More needles mean quicker color changes and smoother workflow. For patches, 12–15 needles are ideal.
4. Ease of Use
Look for touchscreen navigation, built-in tutorials, and intuitive design controls.
5. Connectivity
USB ports, Wi-Fi, and direct software integration make importing/exporting designs much easier.
6. Software Compatibility
Built-in fonts, automatic thread cutters, and robust editing tools can save you hours of work.
7. Build Quality and Support
Go for a machine that’s commercial-grade, comes with a strong warranty, and is backed by excellent customer service.
The Growing Market for Custom Embroidered Patches
Custom patches aren’t just a trend — they’re a booming market with diverse uses across industries:
Branding & Promotion: Businesses, sports teams, and schools use patches for identity and visibility.
Fashion: Streetwear and independent brands love embroidered patches for customization.
Uniforms: Hospitality, military, law enforcement, and security rely heavily on embroidered patches.
Collectibles & Memorabilia: Fans, collectors, and event organizers value unique patch designs.
DIY & Crafts: Hobbyists increasingly personalize clothes and accessories with patches.
With social media fueling demand for personalized products, custom patches are one of the most profitable embroidery niches today.
How to Make Embroidered Patches with a Patch Making Machine
Here’s a simple step-by-step process:
Digitize Your Design: Use professional digitizing software or services (like ours at EZ Stitch Digitizing) to prepare your patch file.
Hoop Your Fabric: Secure stabilizer and fabric in the hoop for clean results.
Run the Design: Load the file into your machine, select the correct hoop size, and start stitching.
Cut & Seal Edges: Trim excess fabric and finish edges with a merrow machine or heat-seal backing.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Best Patch Making Machine
Whether you’re a crafter making patches at home or a business scaling to thousands of units, the right patch making machine can transform your production.
At EZ Stitch Digitizing, we help embroidery businesses succeed by providing accurate, machine-ready embroidery files that save time and improve stitch quality. With the right machine and digitizing support, your patch business can grow faster than you imagined.
👉 Get started today by contacting us at info@ezstitchdigitizing.com or messaging us on Facebook.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the best patch making machine for beginners?
For beginners, a single-needle embroidery machine works well. However, if you plan to sell patches, a 12–15 needle commercial machine is recommended for efficiency.
2. How much does a commercial patch making machine cost?
Prices range from $8,000–$15,000 for professional-grade machines. While expensive upfront, they quickly pay for themselves through bulk orders and consistent quality.
3. Can I make patches without an embroidery machine?
Yes, you can outsource patch production or use pre-made blanks with vinyl printing, but nothing matches the durability and professional look of embroidered patches.
4. What fabrics are best for embroidered patches?
Twill fabric with stabilizer is the industry standard. It’s durable, easy to stitch, and handles edge finishing well.
5. Do I need digitizing software to make patches?
Yes, designs must be digitized before stitching. You can invest in digitizing software or use professional services like EZ Stitch Digitizing for perfect results.
