One thing that comes to our mind when we talk about passionate bikers is their ultra-cool leather jackets. The riders are known to be stylish and funky and are always searching for things to add extra flair to their outfit. Patches are the best buddies of motorcyclists as they are trendy, functional, and a great way to showcase your passion for the thing that you love. For some people, patches are more than just an adornment. They use patches to promote their bikers’ club, gang, or group.
Applying patches on the jackets is the best option if you want your leather jacket to give your introduction. Learning how to patch your jacket is a skill that will save you a lot of money, and you can customize your garment the way you desire. This blog is for all those bikers who want to master the art of patching their leather jackets. We will completely guide you through all the practical ways of applying patches.
Let’s Learn How To Patch A Jacket
Stitching patches with your own hands is a tricky job, especially when you are doing it on a leather jacket. It will take more time and extra caution to sew a patch by hand perfectly. However, you can use this method if you want to patch a place on a jacket where the sewing machine can’t stitch properly.
Using adhesives and sewing by a machine are the two methods that we will discuss in this article. Iron on patches are the most recommended ones for leather jackets, but ironing is still not a good option as it can scorch your garment.
1) Pick The Patch You Like And Decide Its Placement
You will have a design in your mind that you want to see on your biker outfit. Even if you don’t have any design ideas, there are tons of custom leather jacket patches available for avid motorcyclists. Once the patch is finalized, you have to decide where it will be attached. Think carefully before selecting the spot for your patch, as once it gets applied, it is a lot of work to shift it elsewhere.
Before you start working with the patch, keep a few things in mind. Sewing an emblem on your leather jacket will leave holes, so you have to rethink whether you want to patch it or not. Also, you will need a transparent nylon or polyester thread, as cotton threads are not suitable for leather products. In the end, find a sturdy needle that is tough enough for the leather surface.
2) Use A Strong Adhesive To Stick The Patches
This will be the step if you do not want to stich patches on your garment. Heavy-duty fabric glue can be used to apply patches. The most convenient, quick, and simple process to patch your jacket. It is important to use the right product as some glues can damage the leather. This method is perfect if you want a stitch-less look but using a permanent adhesive will mean that you cannot remove that patch in the future.
3) Glue The Patch So It Doesn’t Move While Sewing
The patching process continues for those who are willing to stitch the emblems. You can use a normal glue stick to keep the patch in place. People will suggest using safety pins to hold the patch but don’t consider this suggestion as you would not want to puncture your expensive outfit. Adhesive sprays are enough for leather jacket patches to stop moving while stitching.
4) It Is Time To Take Out Your Powerful Sewing Machine
A standard sewing machine will not do the job. It will take a special machine that is designed specifically to stitch leather garments. Use a nylon thread, and an 18-gauge sharp and thick needle is preferred. Start stitching from the corners and stay close to the borders of the patch. Minimize the gap between every stitch to achieve a tidy and clean look. Don’t go too fast on the tricky edges, as it won’t produce precise results.
5) Keep Stitching Till You Reach The Starting Point
Move the patch around, but don’t remove the jacket from its position while stitching. Keep sewing till you have completed the whole outer lining of the patch. Overlapping the first and the last stitches will decrease the load of backstitching. Once you feel like the stitches are firm enough within the leather, the sewing process is finished.
6) Give Your Jacket The Finishing Touches
Take the jacket out of the sewing machine and trim the excess threads. Keep your scissors close to the lining but be careful not to cut any knots or stitches. Your cool leather jacket with biker patches UK is ready to be worn at the next ride with your fellow motorcyclists.
Bikers’ Leather Jackets Are Incomplete Without Patches
You will usually observe bikers with a black t-shirt and jeans, but the real way to identify passionate motorcyclists is by their leather jackets adorned with multiple embroidered patches. Some of them just want their outfit to depict their biker lifestyle, while some like to proudly flaunt their association with any club. Patches are also a popular choice among riders who want to add a patriotic feel to their outfit. The colourful patches are a great way to look more vibrant and flamboyant while enjoying a road ride.
You Are Now Ready To Patch A Leather Jacket!
Patching a leather garment is not an easy task, but with little practice, you can easily master this skill. There are different ways to apply patches on a leather biker jacket but sewing is undoubtedly the most reliable method when you want long-lasting results. You can use your hands for stitching if you have the skills and patience to do it.
Machine-sewn emblems always have a nicer finish and can enhance the whole personality of your biker jacket. Leather apparel is different from your regular clothing so plan every stitch in advance. It will be difficult to undo the complete sewing process. We hope that now you confidently customize your biker outfit by following this detailed stitching guide.