DIY Embroidered Patches
Free workshop THIS WEEKEND + how to make them at home!
One of our goals in starting the Creative Juice newsletter was to fuel makers of all ages with resources and inspiration. Today I want to highlight one of our favorite Creative Camps projects: the mighty embroidered patch. You and your family can make one at home by following the instructions below, or join us live for an upcoming workshop. Let me know in the comments if you want more activity guides like this!
Creative Camps Project Plan #1: Embroidered Patches
Recommended Age: 7+
Estimated time: 1-1.5 hours
Offered in-person (Raleigh, NC):
“Teenspace Crafternoon,” March 9 at Dix Park [FREE EVENT]
“Retro Vibes” week at Creative Camps, June 23-27
The Revival of Embroidered Patches: A Nod to Scouting Merit Badges
In the world of DIY, trends come and go, but some classics always make their way back into the spotlight. One such comeback is the embroidered patch—once a staple of scout uniforms, denim jackets, and punk rock fashion, now back on the scene as a must-have for makers and collectors alike.
This revival isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s tied to a sense of nostalgia, craftsmanship, and the desire to wear our identities—quite literally—on our sleeves. And if you look closely, you’ll see a direct link between today’s patch craze and the time-honored tradition of scouting merit badges.
From Merit Badges to Modern Patches: A Thread of Nostalgia
For generations, merit badges have been a symbol of accomplishment in scouting. Each embroidered circle or square was earned through skill-building—whether it was knot-tying, woodworking, or environmental conservation. Wearing them on a sash or vest wasn’t just about decoration; it was about telling a story.
Today’s resurgence of embroidered patches taps into that same spirit. Many crafters, artists, and small businesses are designing patches that reflect personal interests, pop culture references, or inside jokes within niche communities. Whether it’s a “Plant Mom” patch for avid gardeners or a “Bookworm Club” badge for literary lovers, these tiny works of textile art serve as modern-day merit badges for adolescence and beyond.
The Handmade Appeal
Unlike mass-produced stickers or prints, embroidered patches bring an element of craftsmanship that resonates with DIY enthusiasts. Many independent makers are using vintage sewing techniques to create unique, high-quality patches that feel personal and special. At Creative Camps, we are all about the analog and the throwback, so this project is the perfect fit for our inaugural how-to post.
The beauty of patches is that they can be applied to almost anything—denim jackets, backpacks, hats, or even framed as miniature works of art.
How to Make Your Own Embroidered Patches
Feeling inspired? Making your own embroidered patches is easier than you might think! Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to get you started:
What You’ll Need:
Pen
Scissors
Fabric (felt, canvas, or twill work best). Pictured: 4x4” felt sheets
3” embroidery hoop & needle
Thread
Peel n stick adhesive (if you want a no-sew application)
Steps:
Sketch Your Design – Draw a simple design on your fabric. Keep it small and bold for visibility.
Secure it to the Hoop – if using one.
Prepare the Thread – Cut a length a couple of feet long, double-knot one end, and poke the other through your needle.
Embroider the Design – Use basic embroidery stitches like satin stitch or backstitch to bring your patch to life.
Remove from Hoop and Cut Out the Patch – Leave a small border around your design for a clean, finished look.
Apply an Adhesive Backing – Trace the patch onto the Peel n Stick paper. Trim the shape from the paper, peel one side and adhere it to the back of your patch. Alternative: sew or safety pin the patch to the desired location.
Why We Love the Patch Revival
The return of embroidered patches is more than just a fashion trend; it’s a celebration of personal expression, storytelling, and the resurgence of slow fashion and intentional crafting. Whether you’re a crafter making custom patches for friends or a collector hunting for vintage scouting badges, there’s something special about these tiny, embroidered works of art.
Are you a fan of embroidered patches? Have you tried making your own? Share your patch stories in the comments below. And if you’re local to Raleigh, don’t forget to check out our in-person workshops!