You have probably come across blog posts or descriptions about patches which mentions the fact that particular patches have a plastic backing. Sometimes the writer refers to that plastic backing as heat-activated glue that allows you to attach the piece by simply using a hot iron. However this is not exactly true. I will actually try to clear up a few of these misconceptions. The fact that not all patches contain heat activated glue just because they have a plastic backing is the reason why this is necessary.
If you were to have a look at patchology.org which is a website that is dedicated to explain all about patches, you would soon see that heat sealed backing is not the same thing as plastic backing. As you can gather from the name, plastic backing is a thin layer of plastic which when applied to the rear of a patch will ensure that it lasts longer and is more rigid. If you wanted this plastic backing to be able to become an adhesive then it would be necessary for you to apply such a degree of heat that could actually damage the patch or the item you wanted to apply it to. So if you wanted to adhere a plastic backed patch to your clothing or other items then you would have to use a needle and thread to sew it on instead.
When you hear people talking about heat activated glue, they are actually talking about patches that have heat sealed backing. When this glue is applied to patches it will either be directly to the patch or on top of a thin layer of plastic. Heat sealed backing is basically a glue substance which will allow you to adhere patches to almost any fabric. It doesn’t require extremely high temperatures to activate, so there is very little concern about harming the patch during application.
In a future post, I will give an in-depth explanation of how heat sealed backing actually works. You will be able to find out more by staying tuned.
If you are a avid motorbike rider then adding cheap vests to complement your existing attire is a must. Motorcycling always seems better somehow when you dress the part.
