How to Make Biker Patches
by Louise Lawson
Patches are clothing accessories used to express oneself, as well as support and show pride in a wide variety of organizations and ideas. Bikers are no exception to the idea of patches and wear them proudly as a display of who they are and whom they associate with. Most bikers place their patches on their vests or jackets and wear them every time they mount up. Making patches is not a difficult process, as long as you have the proper equipment.
How to Make Biker Patches
Step 1
Choose the type of fabric you'll be making your patches from. Most biker patches are made from a heavy fabric such as denim or other heavy cotton, as they are long-wearing and hold up well to the elements.
Step 2
Decide what type of design you want for your patches. You can scan through automobile or motorcycle magazines for inspiration, or you can just sketch the image freehand.
Step 3
Sketch your image on tracing paper. You can add a little color for reference, although you will finalize your design on the computer.
Step 4
Scan your image into the embroidery program on your computer. Here you can outline the image, add color and adjust the size until you create the perfect image. Be sure to save your design after each change to prevent losing the entire work in case of a computer problem or power failure.
Step 5
Upload your completed image onto your sewing machine. Your image should be in its final design before loading it onto the machine, since you cannot make any adjustments once it is uploaded.
Step 6
Secure your fabric in your machine's embroidery hoop and select the proper setting for your machine. Center the fabric and start the machine, making sure to stay close in case any problems arise while the patch is being created. The embroidery setting on your machine will sew the entire patch automatically based on your design, so all you need to do is turn the machine on and it will design the pattern for you.
Step 7
Remove the loop once the patch is complete and slide the fabric free. Check it carefully for any flaws or loose threads before trimming the excess fabric from the patch.
Step 8
Sew the patch onto your garment. Most biker patches are sewn on rather than ironed on, as they are constantly exposed to the elements and sewing it onto your garment will prevent you from losing it.
Tips
- Take care while selecting your patch. Many designs are considered sacred to some biker groups and should not be taken lightly.
Things You'll Need
- Sewing Machine with Embroidery Setting
- Computer
- Embroidery Design Program
- Fabric
- Tracing Paper
- Pencils
- Scissors
- Needle
- Thread
Warnings
- Never allow children to use a sewing machine unsupervised. Needles can cause serious injury if used improperly.
Writer Bio
Louise Lawson has been a published author and editor for more than 10 years. Lawson specializes in pet and food-related articles, utilizing her 15 years as a sous chef and as a dog breeder, handler and trainer to produce pieces for online and print publications.
