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Frequently Asked Questions About Patches

Q.  How can I get a quote?

A.  All we would need in order to provide a quote is the size of the patch and the quantity that you need priced out.

 

Q.  How do I place an order?

A.  You can call, fax, or email us with the following information:

  • Items you would like to purchase

  • Quantities you need for the order

  • Complete ship-to address (including any building, room, or suite numbers)

  • IMPAC card information (cardholder's name, card number, and expiration date)

  • Your phone number

  • Your fax number

Q.  Can you duplicate any patch?

A.  Yes, we can duplicate any patch you send us in size, shape and coloring. If we cannot, we will let you know upfront not after the fact.

Q.  Can you work from my artwork?

A.  Yes, we can work from any colored artwork or artwork with color instructions. Once you place your order, we will digitize your patch based on the design provided and gladly send a sample patch for approval prior to full production.

Q.  Is it easy to re-order?

A.  We keep very detailed records that make the re-order process as easy as possible for our customers. You could call us about something made 10 years ago and within a few minutes we can identify the item made, the tape used and the date the order was placed. Our customers can re-order from us with complete confidence.

Q.  Can you convert my patches from one coloring to another (i.e. from full color to subdued -or- from subdued to desert)?

A.  We are familiar with making color conversions and have done this before for many units. We use a standard conversion chart and Cable Colors approved by the Institute of Heraldry.

Q.  How do I get an accurate measurement of my patch?

A.  Most patches have either scrolls or tabs that extend outside if the main body of the patch. It is important to measure from the very highest and widest points of your patch whether that is in the extended area or the main design itself. That will give you the truest measurement of your patch in both height and width.  Then you take the height and width, add them together and divide by 2 to get an exact measurement of your patch.

Q.  What is the difference between fully embroidered and twill patches?

A.  Fully embroidered patches have stitching that completely covers the face of the patch. Twill patches typically have areas where the cloth material of the patch shows through and serves as the background.

Q.  What borders are available for my patch?

A.  We can make both merrowed and hand cut borders for your patches.

  • A patch with a merrowed border is embroidered up to the border and cut. Then stitching is added that actually wraps around and totally covers the edge of the patch.

  • A patch hand cut or laser cut border is completely finished including the stitching for the border prior to being cut. It has a little bit of the patch material showing around the outside of the patch border.
     

Q.  What backing is available for my patch?

A.  Our patches typically come with a standard plastic backing. We can make your patches without the plastic if we are duplicating a sample that has no backing or our customer specifically requests.

Q.  I need to have my patch made according to the Cable Color numbers that were approved for my unit. Do you know what Cable Colors are?

A.  Yes, we are familiar with the Institute of Heraldry's Cable Color number and that the exact thread colors that correspond with them.

Q.  What shapes are available for my patches?

A.  Most Air Force patches are either one of two shapes - shield or disc (circular). Circular patches could have a top and/or bottom scroll or tab.  However, we can make it in any shape you like.

Q.  Do you stock any patches?

A.  We try to keep a good supply of Command patches (ACC and AMC) in stock and ready to ship out the same day an order is placed. We also have USAF Fire Protection and US Flag patches ready on the shelf.

Q.  What is the minimum order amount?

A.  Our minimum requirement for patches is 100 each.

Q.  I like your quality, but I'm required to buy my Wing patches from my Base Supply Store. How can I get your patches through them?

A.  No problem simply take a sample of our patches to the Store manager and tell them that you like our quality better and why.  Give them our toll free number (800-672-8452 ext. 223) and recommend that they buy your patches through us.  Because the Base Supply Stores stock your patches and buy in much bigger quantities, they will get special pricing which they can in turn pass on to you.