How to apply heatseal (iron-on) patches to fencing jackets
First, consider your material. There are special considerations for synthetic materials such as polyester. If you have a cotton jacket, the process will be much easier. Synthetic fabrics require lower temperatures and closer observation than cotton. If in doubt, start with a lower temperature!
General steps in the process:
- Be sure the jacket is clean and dry. Patches should be applied to your non-sword arm. For example, if you are right-handed, the patch goes on your left sleeve. Place the patch near the shoulder.
- Pull the sleeve over the end of an ironing board and align the patch. This can be tricky, so take your time. You can also preheat the fabric first, but the patch will start to adhere very quickly to preheated fabric.
- Set your iron to a medium heat, no steam. Let it fully warm up before beginning. Cotton jackets will tolerate higher temperatures than synthetic.
- Cover the patch with an old t-shirt or similar thin cotton cloth. This helps protect the fabric of your jacket.
- Place the iron directly on top of the patch, applying pressure and being sure to cover all the edges. You can carefully move the iron around to help ensure the patch is fully covered. Keep the iron on top of the patch for only about a minute at a time. Be sure to observe your jacket to make sure that you are not melting the fabric.
- You may need to repeat this process a couple more times, allowing the patch to cool a bit between each time.
- Do not try to lift the edges of the patch until it is fully cooled--maybe 5-10 minutes.
- Once it is fully cooled, you may find that the edges are not well sealed, or the patch just does not seem to be adhering as much as you would like. In this case, Aleene’s Super Fabric Adhesive works well to seal down the edges. Apply a little at a time and you can use a toothpick to work it under the patch and clean up the excess. Keep in mind, this glue is permanent! It is a good idea to test it on an unseen area of your jacket first. Also, if you use a different brand/type of fabric glue, be sure you read the instructions. Some brands, such as Gorilla fabric glue, specifically say they are not to be used on heatseal patches. (Aleene’s can be found locally at Jo-Ann Fabrics, but it is probably available at other stores as well).
Our spiffy Zenith City Fencers patch was designed by Derek, and is available for $5.
