Where do Scouting Ireland badges go?
Badge positions on the Scouting Ireland uniform are set by the organisation and differ between sections: Beavers, Cubs, Scouts, Ventures and Rovers. Positions can also change when the uniform or award scheme is updated. For that reason, the reliable answer is always the current official guidance:
- Check the uniform and badge guidance published by Scouting Ireland
- Ask your Section Leader or Group Leader, who will have the current layout
- Look at a correctly badged shirt in your own group before sewing
We do not reproduce placement charts here because an outdated chart is worse than none. This guide covers what we can help with: attaching badges properly and making your group's own patches.
How to sew scout badges on so they last
Scout shirts and jumpers are washed often and worn outdoors, so sewing is far more reliable than iron-on adhesive.
- Pin or tack the badge in position, following your section's guidance.
- Use a thread that matches the badge border so stitches disappear.
- Start from the inside of the garment so the knot is hidden.
- Sew small stitches through the merrowed border, about 3 to 4 mm apart, all the way round.
- Keep your other hand inside the sleeve or shirt so you do not stitch it closed.
- Finish with two or three small stitches on the inside and knot securely.
Our step-by-step guide on how to sew a patch on has more detail, including machine sewing. If you are weighing up adhesive, read iron-on vs sew-on patches first.
Custom patches for scout groups
Beyond official badges, many groups order their own patches. These are not uniform badges; they are group identity and memory pieces, usually worn on camp blankets, group hoodies, rucksacks and caps.
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| Patch idea | Typical use | Suggested type |
|---|---|---|
| Group crest or name | Hoodies, bags, group gear | Embroidered |
| Camp or trip patch | Camp blankets, souvenirs | Embroidered or woven |
| Anniversary patch (e.g. a group's 50th) | Keepsake for members and alumni | Woven for detail |
| Event patch for a local or regional event | Participants and leaders | Embroidered |
| Fundraiser patch | Sold to families and supporters | Embroidered, small size |
If your custom patch includes any Scouting Ireland marks or the World Scout emblem, check with Scouting Ireland or your leaders whether approval is needed before ordering. Your group's own name, crest and camp designs belong to the group.
How big should a group or camp patch be?
Camp and event patches are traditionally small enough to fit many on a blanket. Common sizes are 6 to 8 cm round or shield-shaped. Group crests for the back of a hoodie can be much larger, around 20 cm. See our patch size guide for more.
Which backing should a scout group choose?
- Sew-on: best for uniforms, blankets and anything washed often - Iron-on: convenient for hoodies and cotton bags, but add a few stitches for camp wear - Velcro: useful on rucksacks so patches can be swapped between trips
Using patches to raise funds
A group patch costs little to post, appeals to families, alumni and leaders, and gives younger members something to collect. Our guide to fundraiser patches for clubs and charities covers how to choose a quantity and price them.
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 MOCKUPKeeping a camp blanket neat
Camp blankets collect patches over many years, so a little planning helps. Start in one corner or around a central group crest and work outwards, keep similar-sized patches in rows, and leave space for future camps. Sew blanket patches rather than ironing them, as wool and fleece blankets do not take adhesive well, and use a thread colour that matches each patch border.
Ordering for a scout group
With a 5-piece minimum per design, small groups can order just enough for leaders, or a larger run for every member and fundraising. Send your design or a sketch and the event name and date, and check every name and year carefully on the free mockup. Delivery is free anywhere in Ireland, including Northern Ireland.
What this guide is based on
This guide is written by Irish Customized Patches for groups who order custom patches from us. It does not replace Scouting Ireland's official uniform guidance, which is the only authority on badge placement. Request a free mockup for your group patch.