Embroidery Thread Colors & Twill Charts
The configuration tool for matching your corporate identity to our high-tensile polyester threads. We utilize the Pantone Matching System (PMS) to ensure brand consistency across all custom orders.
Computer screens emit light (RGB) while physical threads reflect light. Strictly relying on a digital monitor can lead to discrepancies. This chart serves as the “Source of Truth” for your production.
Standard Embroidery Thread Chart
We manufacture patches using High-Tensile Polyester Thread. Unlike Rayon, which can deteriorate over time, polyester offers superior colorfastness and is bleach-resistant. This ensures your patch withstands industrial laundering and harsh weather conditions without fading.
Pantone (PMS) Color Matching
To specify your color, simply provide your brand’s PMS Code. Our digitizing team uses this reference to select the closest corresponding thread spool. While thread manufacturing has physical limitations compared to digital printing, we achieve a match accuracy within the 98th percentile.
Specialty Threads
The chart below separates standard colors from specialty options. Metallic Threads (Gold 901, Silver 902) and Neon Threads utilize different filament structures to reflect light differently. These require specific needle adjustments and density settings during the embroidery process.
Standard Polyester Thread Colors
The industry standard for uniforms and branding. We use high-tensile polyester thread to create a classic, textured 3D look.
1595 1940 106 207 1428 1436 1092 1957 410 1109 1454 2122 352 1895 1904 622 2383 1528 1093 291 1577 1113 1892 2392 1955 1732 110 2110 1878 1452 1660 1961 1564 2086 1520 2088 1960 123 1880 2111 1028 1468 1667 689 1518 2123 1473 2121 313 1903 1826 2101 1872 706 533 310 609 724 1503 2062 1915 1905 174 376 133 1779 1970 2001 1461 2379 600 2056 314 1906 1731 2454 707 1137 304 1992 610 2287 287 1599 2144 1129 428 2162 522 1937 565 1710 1601 385 512 407 2314 612 2165 1845 1005 1716 434 1242 339 1974 2160 2038 611 2176 713 1574 114 1200 1628 1143 1839 1112 705 2340 715 431 1405 1883 530 1582 368 1571 1771 1169 1936 265 1197 208 1333 463 672 1015 1593 2077 404 355 1407 2246 2136 1045 2424 1550 1589 1096 2078 213 730 1715 2198 254 1887 465 368 1590 2257 1687 1692 1922 1879 2210 2072 1908 377 1431 1870 357 1630 248 1932 1888 2137 2067 1046 1419 1416 1051 1783 1578 2095 275 1714 680 2310 1747 1951 1598 1052 583 669 128 1792 1746 249 2218 1765 320 524 1053 1824 1627 725 522 1043 1344 2363 1682 1926 2036 2173 122 529 101 343 1754 2129 469 1414 1953 2104 2222 1814 1637 103 336 1910 1941 2419 1592 1948 2046 2221
Specialty Threads (Metallics & Neons)
901
Gold902
Silver2
Neon4
Neon9
Neon11
Neon17
Neon21
Neon26
Neon27
Neon28
Neon626
Neon
Twill Fabric Background Colors
Twill is a durable, woven fabric with a distinct diagonal rib pattern. It serves as the primary substrate (canvas) for embroidered patches. Choosing the correct twill color is a critical configuration step, as it provides structural integrity and ensures clean edges for shapes like shields or circles.
Calculating Embroidery Percentage
50% to 75% Embroidery
The text and logos are stitched, but the Twill Fabric remains visible in the background. You must select a twill color that matches your design’s background.
100% Embroidery
The entire surface of the patch is covered in thread. In this case, the twill color is less visible but still provides the necessary foundation for the stitches.
For 50-75% coverage, the Twill Color acts as your background color. For 100% coverage, the Twill Color is purely structural and hidden beneath the thread.
Twill Fabric Options
Our premium Twill background fabrics. We use a high-density weave that provides a sturdy base for embroidery and clean edges for PVC patches.
800 801 802 803 824 825 826 827 848 849 850 851 804 805 806 807 828 829 830 831 852 853 854 855 808 809 810 811 832 833 834 835 856 857 858 859 812 813 814 815 836 837 838 839 860 861 871 872 816 817 818 819 840 841 842 843 873 874 875 876 820 821 822 823 844 845 846 847 877 878 879 880
Ensuring Legibility & Contrast
When configuring your patch, visual hierarchy is determined by the contrast between the Thread Color and the Twill Background. To ensure text remains legible at small sizes (micro-text), you must avoid low-contrast combinations.
High Contrast
These pairings ensure sharp details. Ideal for name tapes, morale patches, and logos with fine lettering.
Low Contrast
These combinations result in poor visibility and “muddy” details during digitization. Not recommended for text.
Frequently Asked Questions
Technical details about our embroidery process, thread durability, and ordering standards.
Is there a minimum text size for embroidered lettering?
Yes. To ensure your text is readable, letters must be at least 4mm (0.16 inches) tall. If your design requires smaller text than this, we recommend choosing Woven Patches or Printed Patches, which can handle micro-details better than standard embroidery thread.
Does the number of colors affect the price?
No, not for standard orders. We include up to 9 Thread Colors in our standard price. Note: Designs that require 10 or more unique Pantone colors may have a small surcharge. This covers the extra time required to set up additional needle heads on our embroidery machines.
Can custom patches be applied to curved hats?
Yes, but the patch height should be limited to 2.25 inches. Trucker hats have a curved front panel. If a patch is too tall, it will bunch up at the corners. Tip: For the best fit on hats, request a Hot Cut Border instead of a Merrowed Border.
Are metallic threads as durable as standard threads?
No. Metallic threads (Gold/Silver) are designed for visual impact, not heavy abrasion. While we use high-tensile metallic thread, it is naturally more fragile than standard polyester. We recommend Metallics for awards (like Fiesta Medals) rather than heavy-duty workwear.
Are your patches fire-resistant (FR)?
Yes, we manufacture Fire Resistant (FR) patches upon request. We use certified Nomex® threads and FR-treated cotton backings. These materials meet NFPA 2112 safety standards, making them suitable for flame-resistant coveralls used in the Eagle Ford Shale and industrial sectors.
Will Velcro backing survive industrial laundering?
No, we do not recommend Velcro for industrial heavy washing. High-temperature industrial wash cycles can melt the nylon hooks on Velcro. For mechanics, chefs, or industrial workers, we recommend Sew-On application or Heat Seal (applied via commercial heat press) for a permanent bond.
Can I remove an iron-on patch after it has been applied?
Yes, but it is difficult. Iron-on patches are designed to be permanent. You must reheat the patch to soften the glue, then peel it off while hot. Warning: This often leaves a visible glue residue. Removing a patch may damage delicate fabrics like performance polyester.
Do you make patches with copyrighted logos?
No, unless you are the authorized owner. We strictly follow intellectual property laws. If you are ordering for a registered group (like a school or official fan club), we require a formal Letter of Authorization from the trademark holder before we can digitize the design.
Which side of the Velcro comes on the patch?
The patch comes with the “Hook” (Male/Scratchy) side attached. Most tactical vests and uniforms already have the “Loop” (Female/Soft) panel sewn onto them. Note: If your uniform does not have a panel, we can supply both the Hook and Loop sides upon request.
Do you keep my design on file for re-orders?
Yes, we archive your digitized file (DST) indefinitely. When you place a re-order in the future, you do not pay the setup/digitizing fee again. This ensures your new patches will match the exact stitch count and colors of your previous order.
