Why placement matters
A good patch in the wrong place can look like a mistake. Too low on the chest and it sits on the stomach; too close to the zip and it disappears when the jacket is open; too high on the back and the collar covers it. Standard positions exist because they look right on most body shapes and are where people expect to see a crest or logo.
Standard patch positions with measurements
| Position | Where exactly | Typical patch size |
|---|---|---|
| Left chest | 15–20 cm below the shoulder seam, centred between zip or placket and side seam | 7–10 cm |
| Right chest | Mirror of the left chest; usually a name tab or second logo | 8–10 cm wide |
| Upper sleeve | 5–8 cm below the shoulder seam, centred on the outside of the arm | 7–9 cm |
| Lower sleeve or cuff | 8–10 cm above the cuff | 5–7 cm |
| Centre back | Top of patch 8–12 cm below the collar seam | 20–30 cm |
| Back yoke (denim) | Centred across the shoulder panel | 15–25 cm wide |
| Cap front | Centred on the front panels, about 1–2 cm above the brim | 5–6 cm wide |
| Beanie cuff | Centred on the folded cuff | 5–7 cm wide |
These are starting points. Measure the garment and adjust for its size and the wearer's build. Our patch size guide gives more detail on choosing sizes.
Jackets and coats
- Club and work jackets: logo on the left chest, name or role on the right chest, and a larger crest on the back if wanted. - Sleeves: flags, county crests and event patches usually go on the upper left sleeve, facing forward. - Rain jackets: avoid seams and taped areas, and keep patches off zips and pocket openings. Velcro on a loop panel is often the best option. See Velcro patches explained.
Denim jackets
Denim is the most fun garment to patch because there are no rules beyond looking balanced:
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- Chest pockets: a small patch centred on each pocket flap or pocket
- Upper sleeves: one patch per sleeve, at the same height on both
- Back: one large centre patch, or the yoke panel across the shoulders with smaller patches below
- Collar points: very small patches or pins
For a clustered look, lay all the patches on the jacket first, place the largest one, then fit smaller ones around it with a little space between each. Take a photo before attaching so you can rebuild the layout.
Hoodies and sweatshirts
- Left chest: 7 to 9 cm patch, slightly higher than on a jacket because there is no collar. - Centre chest: large crests or chenille letters, 15 to 25 cm, about 8 to 10 cm below the neckline. - Hood: a small patch on the side of the hood is a modern touch. - Avoid the front pocket, which bags and stretches.
Caps and beanies
Centre the patch on the front panels, just above the brim. Check it is level by looking at the cap from the front at eye level. Structured caps hold a patch better than soft unstructured ones. Our guide to putting a patch on a cap covers attaching methods.
Bags and backpacks
- Backpacks: centre the patch on the front pocket or main panel; many have a loop panel for Velcro patches. - Tote bags: centred on one side, about a third of the way down. - Gear and hurley bags: on the end panel or side, where it is visible when the bag is carried. - Laptop bags: front flap, centred.
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GET A FREE MOCKUPBiker vests
Club colours follow a set layout: a top rocker, centre patch and bottom rocker on the back, with smaller patches on the front. Layout and etiquette vary between clubs, so follow your club's rules. Our biker and motorcycle patch guide explains the basics.
How to mark placement before attaching
1. Put the garment on, or on a hanger at eye level for bags. 2. Hold the patch in place and check in a mirror. 3. Mark the top and centre with masking tape or tailor's chalk. 4. Take the garment off, lay it flat and measure from the shoulder seam or collar to confirm both sides match. 5. Pin, tape or iron the patch in place, then sew. See how to sew a patch onto a jacket or how to iron on a patch.
What this guide is based on
These positions are the standard placements Irish Customized Patches recommends for uniforms, club gear and fashion items, with measurements based on adult garments. Adjust for children's sizes and unusual cuts. When you order, tell us where the patch will go and we will suggest a size on your free mockup. Request a free mockup.