onaemtnest

I'm in the process of finishing a patriotic quilt/wall hanging for our son. I want to attach military patches 4" in diameter to each corner of the quilt. The patches are commemorating his service in Desert Storm/Desert Shield. They are new unworn patches with a thick coating (plastic like) that covers the stitches on the back. Satin stitched edges during manufacturing.

My problem is though I thought this was such terrific idea and was part of my design.... now I'm not so sure? The patches are military issue heavy and I wonder if my Viking 1+ will be able to sew through this plastic coating. No way possible to do it by hand or at least my hands at this stage in life.

Any suggestions from all the experienced members will be greatly appreciated.

I even wondered if there was an alternative to attaching the patches other than sewn on since it is a wall hanging?

jaciqltznok

sorry, but they are meant to be sewn on. Just use a "jeans" or upholstery needle and thread and a larger stitch and you will be fine. I have had to sew on many a patch on husbands uniforms!

Peckish

I don't think you'll have a problem sewing them on with your machine, I've been able to sew patches with my small entry-level Brother. I used a wide zigzag and thread color that matched the border of the patch. If you do find that you're having difficulty, you can always take them into an alterations shop to be sewn on.

QuiltingCrazie

I just did this for my sons quilt. I used my ex husbands old army uniforms and he left the patches on because they used to be sew on, now they are Velcro. I took the names off and the US Army and the unit patch and flag. To attach then because of the already satin stitching I used a jeans needle and straight stitched around the whole thing really close to the bottom of the satin stitching in black thread because i didn't have puke green. I did it this way for another reason as well, over time and washing I didn't want to get holes in the fabric at the patch corners like a jeans pocket does because of heavy stitching on a lighter material.