
CustomSublimated Patches
Edge-to-edge color for designs embroidery can't reproduce, like gradients, photos, and detailed illustrations. Free digital proof before production. You approve before anything is made.
About Sublimated Patches
Custom sublimated patches with vivid full-color dye printing. Great for gradients, photos, and detailed designs. Free digital proof, no minimum order.
Custom sublimated patches, also called printed patches or dye-sublimation patches, are made by printing full-color designs directly into the fabric using dye sublimation. They're the best choice for gradients, photo-style artwork, and fine detail that embroidery can't reproduce. Every order comes with a free digital proof, no minimum, and a choice of border options.
Sublimated patches are printed, not stitched. The dye is applied straight into the fabric, so the color reaches every edge and the surface stays smooth, with no raised thread or texture.
At The American Patches, custom sublimation patches come with a free digital proof before production and no minimum order. Send us your size and artwork, and we'll send back a quote and a proof for you to approve before we print anything. If your design leans more toward bold logos or uniform numbers than gradients and photo color, embroidered patches might be the better fit. It's worth comparing before you order.
Popular uses
Specs & options
Quick reference to help compare patch types.
Backing and border options
Choose how your patches attach (backing) and how edges are finished (border). Not sure? Start a quote and we'll recommend on your proof.
How it works
Simple process. Clear statuses. No production until approval.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about our premium patch manufacturing process
What are sublimated patches?
Sublimated patches use dye sublimation to print full-color designs directly into the fabric. The color becomes part of the material instead of sitting on top, so it won't peel or crack, and the surface stays smooth and flat.
What's the difference between sublimated and embroidered patches?
Sublimated patches have a smooth, printed surface with no raised texture. They're best for gradients and photos. Embroidered patches have a classic stitched texture and work better for bold logos and uniforms. If your design has smooth color transitions or fine detail, sublimated is the better call.
What is a subli patch?
Subli patch is short for sublimated patch. It's the same product: a patch printed with dye sublimation for full, vivid color that runs edge to edge.
What is dye sublimation for patches?
Dye sublimation is a printing process where heat turns dye into a gas that bonds directly into the fabric fibers. The result is vivid, durable color that's part of the material itself, not a coating on top of it.
What border options are available for sublimated patches?
Sublimated patches can have a merrow border (a stitched overlock edge) or a heat-cut die-cut edge that follows the exact shape of your design.
Is there a minimum order for sublimated patches?
No. There's no minimum order, so you can get one patch or a full bulk run. Every order includes a free digital proof before we print.
Is a sublimated patch the same as a printed patch?
Yes. Printed patches and sublimated patches are the same product. Both use dye sublimation to print full-color designs into the fabric, so however you search for it, you'll end up looking at the same patch.
How much do custom patches cost?
Pricing depends on size, quantity, type, and backing. Starting prices begin at $1.25/piece. Quantity discounts start at 51 pieces: 5% off at 51–200, 10% at 201–500, 15% at 501–1,000, and 20–25% at 1,000+. Final discount depends on product type, size, and artwork complexity. Use the Instant Quote for an exact number.
What's your minimum order quantity?
There is no minimum, so you can order as few as one piece. No setup fees, no hidden charges.
How long does production take?
Standard production is 7–14 business days after proof approval, depending on quantity and product type. Rush turnaround is available on request for a small priority fee.
Do I get a free digital proof before production?
Yes. You get a free digital proof within 24 hours of ordering. Review it, ask for basic changes at no cost, and approve before we make anything.
What file formats do you accept?
Vector files like AI, EPS, PDF, or SVG work best. You can also send PNG, JPG, or even a rough sketch. Our design team will clean it up and send you a proof before production.
What backing options are available?
Iron-on, peel-and-stick (adhesive), Velcro (hook & loop), and sew-on. We'll recommend the best one for how you'll use the patch during the proof stage.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes. We ship worldwide, and shipping is free on every order.
What's your quality guarantee?
Every order is checked against your approved proof before it ships. Risk-free: get a full refund anytime before you approve your proof. After approval, if your order has a defect, is damaged, or does not match the proof, we remake and reship at our cost within 14 days, and refund you if we cannot make it right.
Get a free proof on your order.
Upload your artwork, tell us size and quantity, and we send a digital proof in 24 hours.
