Step 5: Next, sew the zigzag tack-down stitch to hold the patch in place. Then, sew the satin-stitch outline. These stitches usually are the same thread color. Once the patch is finished, remove it and peel the vinyl off the back. Step 6: Apply a layer of adhesive to the back of the patch using a heat press or a hot iron, and in accordance with the manufacturer's heat and time recommendations.You may find it useful to sandwich the patch face down between a couple of sheets of plain paper. The bottom sheet will allow the adhesive to be applied all the way to the edges without extra glue adhering to undesired surfaces. The top sheet will prevent extra adhesive from getting on the hot platen surface. Step 7: Once the adhesive has been applied and slightly cools, peel the paper backing off. Peel the patch off the other sheet of paper, leaving the excess glue behind. Step 8: Clean up the patch's edges by peeling off any bits of the leftover adhesive. Use a hot iron or heat press with a pressing cloth or something similar to attach the patch to a hat or garment. For products that cannot handle the heat from a heat press, the patches can be sewn. Designing and creating unique patches and embroidered badges presents exciting opportunities to savvy decorators.With these quick and simple techniques, you will have the tools to take full advantage. Sue Gorton is a member of the Melco Applications Team. For more information or to comment on this article, email Sue at sgorton@melco.com. P.32 i m p r e s s i o n s m a g . c o m APRIL 2017http://www.impressionsmag.com