Ways To Show Off Your Swimming Patches

Swimming is enjoyed by people of all ages across the UK, with many taking lessons or joining swimming clubs at some stage in their lives. Whether it's a child learning to swim for the first time or an adult training for fitness or competition, swimming patches have long been a way to celebrate and mark progress. 

These colourful custom swimming badges symbolise achievements like mastering new strokes, reaching distance milestones, or completing swim levels. However, instead of proudly displaying these accomplishments, many of us store these swimming patches away in boxes or drawers, where they go unnoticed.

Swimming patches are not just decorative; they’re designed to be durable, waterproof, and versatile. This versatility allows you to sew them onto various materials like backpacks, towels, or jackets without any worry about wear and tear. 

Let’s dive into some fun ideas that put your swimming achievements on full display for all to see, inspiring you to get creative!

Swimming patches come in various styles, each with its own unique look and feel. Before you decide how to display your patches, it’s crucial to identify the type you have. Different patch types are made using specific techniques, which affect their texture, durability, and best uses. Whether your patch is woven, embroidered, or chenille, understanding its material and design will help you choose the best way to display it.

Woven patches are made by weaving threads together, creating a smooth finish with fine details. They’re perfect for intricate designs and are often found on swim bags, towels, and jackets.

Embroidered patches are the most common type, made by stitching threads onto a fabric backing fabric backing. With a raised texture and a classic, timeless look, embroidered patches for swimwear are versatile and can be sewn onto swimwear, backpacks, or even framed for display.

Chenille patches are known for their fuzzy, textured finish, giving them a vintage feel. They’re often used for larger, bold designs and are ideal for letterman jackets or thick materials where you want the patch to stand out.

Understanding the type of patch you have will help you determine the best way to display it while preserving its quality and keeping those swim memories alive.

Swimming patches are more than just symbols of achievement; they’re memories that deserve to be seen and appreciated. Here are some creative ways to display your patches, along with tips on the best attachment methods for different types of patches based on where you want to showcase them.

A towel is a practical and common way to display your swimming patches. It’s particularly suitable for woven and embroidered patches. Since towels are often washed and used frequently, sewing is the most durable method for attaching patches. Woven and embroidered patches can handle regular wear and tear and won’t fray easily when sewn onto a towel. For a more temporary solution, fabric glue can be used, but it may wear out over time with repeated washes.

Attaching patches to swimming costumes or shorts can be tricky due to the stretchy material. Embroidered patches and woven patches are the best options, but it’s important to use stretchable thread to avoid restricting the fabric’s flexibility. Avoid using thick patches like chenille on swimwear, as they might be uncomfortable when wet. Iron-on patches may seem viable, but this is only a temporary solution. Over time, this will wear away unless it’s also stitched on.

Sewing swimming patches on wetsuits and life jackets showcases your swimming achievements and provides a practical way to identify your gear, especially in a group setting. PVC patches are the go-to option for these materials due to their durability, flexibility, and resistance to harsh conditions. Unlike traditional fabric patches, PVC patches are made from soft, rubber-like plastic that can withstand water, sun, and salt exposure without fading or deteriorating. Consider stitching your patches along the chest, shoulders or back to help make it easy for others to recognise you in the water.

Outdoor or wild swimming enthusiasts have embraced the dry robe as a staple item for post-swim warmth and comfort. Often oversized and weatherproof, dry robes are perfect for showcasing your swimming patches. Given their growing popularity among swimmers of all levels, customising your robe with any sew-on patch (woven, embroidered, chenille or PVC patches) is a fantastic way to express your swimming achievements and connect with other swimmers who share your passion.

A rucksack or swim bag is a popular spot for showing off swimming patches. Since these bags are usually made from durable materials like canvas or nylon, almost any patch type can be displayed here. Embroidered patches add a classic look and can be sewn on, providing a secure hold. PVC patches are another great option as they are waterproof and sturdy, ideal for gear that might get wet.

For a more decorative and permanent display, consider creating a shadow box frame. A shadow box is a deep, framed box with a glass front designed to display and protect items. This option allows you to preserve your patches while displaying them in a stylish way. Since the patches won’t be touched often, you can use adhesive options like fabric glue or double-sided tape to attach them inside the frame. Chenille, embroidered, and woven patches all work beautifully in a shadow box. The frame’s backing can be customised with fabric or other materials that complement the patches.

A patch book is a fantastic way to organise and display your collection in one place while keeping them protected. This method is ideal for collectors who want to swap patches in and out. Velcro-backed patches work perfectly in this setup, allowing you to rearrange them without damaging them. You can add adhesive Velcro strips to the book’s pages as a way to make them easy to attach and remove.

Turning your patches into a decorative cushion cover is a creative way to display them while adding some personality to your home. Embroidered patches, with their soft texture, work exceptionally well for cushions. Sewing is the most reliable method for attaching patches to fabric cushions, ensuring they stay in place despite regular use. Chenille patches are another excellent choice, offering a cosy, tactile element that works well with cushions.

Each display option has benefits depending on your patch type and the material you’re attaching. Whether you prefer a practical or decorative approach, these ideas ensure your swimming patches are celebrated! If you're looking for high-quality patches to start your display, Aspinline is here to help you bring your patch display ideas to life.

If you plan to attach your swimming patches to clothing, towels, or other items that will need regular cleaning, it’s essential to understand the proper washing instructions for each patch type. How a patch is made and attached will determine how it should be cleaned to keep it looking its best. 

Here’s a breakdown of how to care for different types of patches:

- Embroidered Patches – Durable and can handle machine washing, but washing them in cold water and on a gentle cycle is best to avoid fraying or damage to the stitching. If the patch is sewn on, you don’t need to worry much about it coming loose. However, if it’s glued or ironed on, turn the item inside out to protect the patch, and consider using a laundry bag for extra care. Air drying is recommended to prevent heat damage.

- Woven Patches – Sturdy and can typically be machine-washed. Similar to embroidered patches, they should be washed on a gentle cycle in cold water. If your woven patch is ironed on, avoid high heat in the dryer, as it could weaken the adhesive. Hand washing is another safe option, especially if the patch is attached to delicate fabric like swimwear. Always air-dry woven patches to maintain their shape and quality.

- Chenille Patches – Due to their fuzzy texture, chenille patches are more delicate. They are best cleaned by hand-washing with mild detergent in cold water. Avoid scrubbing the patch directly, as it can damage the soft fibres. If the item is machine washable, use a gentle cycle with cold water, but placing the item in a laundry bag is highly recommended to protect the patch. Chenille patches should be air-dried only to prevent the fibres from getting matted or losing their fluffiness.

By adhering to these washing guidelines, you’ll keep your swimming patches vibrant and securely attached, regardless of the item they’re on. 

We hope this guide has provided helpful tips and inspiration for displaying and caring for your swimming patches. Whether you’re a school, carer, or parent looking for the best ways to show off these accomplishments or have any questions about the information shared above, Aspinline is here to support you. 

Need more information on backings? We’ve got you covered with our Which Type of Backing is Right For Your Custom Patch? Blog post.

Please contact us if you have any inquiries or want to discuss creating custom patches. We’d love to assist you in creating patches that proudly represent your swimming achievements!