Why it pays to check
Search for a patch or badge maker and you will find many suppliers with similar websites and similar promises. Differences show up later: in the proof, the thread quality, how the border is finished, delivery charges and what happens if something is wrong. These ten checks help you compare like for like. They apply to us as much as anyone, so we have noted how Irish Customized Patches handles each one.
The 10 checks
- Do they send a proof before production? You should see a digital mockup with size, colours, border and backing, and production should only start after you approve it. We send a free mockup, usually within 12 hours.
- Can you see real finished work? Renders show what a patch could look like; photos show what the supplier actually makes. Look for a gallery of real samples.
- Is the minimum order clear? Ask how many pieces per design and what counts as a separate design. Ours is 5 per design; see minimum orders explained.
- Is the price in euro, with delivery stated? Watch for prices in other currencies, delivery added at checkout, or import charges for patches shipped from outside the EU. Our delivery is free anywhere in Ireland.
- Is the turnaround realistic and counted from approval? Ask when the clock starts and whether rush is available. Ours is typically 7 to 12 business days from approval within Ireland.
- What happens if the patches do not match the proof? A clear written policy matters more than a slogan. Ours is set out in our refund and returns policy.
- Do they advise on type and backing? A good supplier will tell you if your design suits woven better than embroidery, or if iron-on will not work on your fabric.
- Do they respect artwork rights? They should ask you to confirm you have the right to use a crest or logo, and use your artwork only for your order.
- Are their contact details and address clear? Look for a real business address, an email you can reply to and a named business.
- Do they answer questions quickly and specifically? Send a question before ordering. A specific, helpful reply is a good sign of how the order will go.
How to compare quotes fairly
Two quotes are only comparable if they are for the same specification:
See your artwork as a custom Ireland patch before you buy. Free digital mockup in 12 hours — 5-piece minimum per design. We do not produce until you approve.
GET A FREE MOCKUP| Make sure both quotes match on | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Size (and how it is measured) | Size is the biggest price driver |
| Patch type | Woven, embroidered and PVC are priced differently |
| Coverage | 100% stitched costs more than 75% or 50% |
| Border | Merrowed and heat-cut differ for complex shapes |
| Backing | Velcro costs more than iron-on or sew-on |
| Quantity | Unit price changes at each quantity |
| Delivery and taxes | Free delivery vs charges at checkout or on import |
Our cost guide explains each factor.
Red flags
- No proof before production, or a charge just to see a mockup - Only computer renders, no photos of real patches - Very low prices with delivery and duty unclear - No address, or only a contact form - Pressure to approve quickly without time to check spelling and colours
Questions to ask before you order
- What exactly will the mockup show, and how many revisions are included? - How is size measured: longest side, or average of width and height? - What thread or material is used, and how is the backing attached? - When does the turnaround clock start, and what happens if a deadline is missed? - Is delivery to my address included, and are there any taxes or charges on arrival? - Who do I contact if something is wrong, and how quickly will they reply?
Ready to spec type, size, backing, and quantity? Open the quote form for a free 12-hour mockup and Ireland-wide shipping after approval.
GET A FREE MOCKUPLocal shop or online patch maker?
If you need a logo stitched straight onto garments you can drop in, a local embroidery shop may suit you better. For crests and badges used on many different garments, an online patch maker is usually simpler. Our comparison of embroidery near me vs ordering online covers this.
What this guide is based on
These checks are the questions experienced buyers ask before ordering custom patches and badges. Irish Customized Patches is based in Chapelizod, Dublin 20, and the answers above describe how we work. The full process is in how to order custom patches. Request a free mockup.