3-Tigers Martial Arts Uniforms Patches, Hemming & Mending

All patches and hemming should be completed by your next training session

Unless specified martial arts patches are not iron-on.

Hand Sewing Patches:  Pin the patch in the correct position, and loop stitch the outside edge of the patch to the uniform, using a double length of strong thread and a sharp sewing needle.  Use thread color that matches the outermost edge of the patch to camouflage the thread as much as possible.  A thimble will help; as martial arts patches are thick and it can be difficult to hand sew through the patch without giving the needle a stronger push.  Make sure the thread is cut behind the back of the patch so it is not visible.

Machine Sewing Patches:  Machine sewing is faster and the bond is very strong. When machine sewing, the inner bobbin color should match your uniform color, with the top spool of thread matching the outlining area of the patch. This avoids any color bleed of the thread onto the inside of the uniform. Simply pin the patch in the correct position, and straight stitch the perimeter of the patch.

Gluing Patches:  Most glues over time will yellow or cause uniform damage.  If you prefer to use fabric glue or patch glue you can buy this at most craft or fabric store.  If your patches have deep colors, you'll need to be careful that the glue doesn't cause the colors to bleed to the uniform.

Iron-On Patches:  Turn the setting on your iron to either "high heat" or "cotton," depending on the kind of iron you have.  Lay the area on your uniform down flat where you will be applying the patch. Place an unfolded bath towel or washcloth on top of the area you want the patch on. Press the heated iron over this spot for about eight to 10 seconds to get it ready for the patch. Take the towel off and replace it with the patch. Position the patch as you would like it to appear when adhered. Cover the patch with the towel and press the iron over the patch for another eight to 10 seconds. Move the iron gently back and forth to transfer heat to all ends of the patch. Remove the towel and allow the garment to cool completely before touching or using it.  You still might need to take a needle and thread if the patch comes loose. Sew the patch on from inside the garment to attach it securely. On the outside, stitch the patch's edges neatly and evenly onto the garment.

TIP:  To get a patch in the right location when worn put the uniform on and use a pin or temporary fabric marker to mark where the patch should be.  Layout your uniform flat and place patch over the marked area, remove any sewing pins.  Using the bottom edge of the uniform to center the patch.  Pin the patch in place and then try the uniform back on to check for placement and alignment.

Hemming:  Often the sleeves or pants are too long on your dobok.  You can always roll up the sleeves and pants of your uniform but this often comes undone. 

If you want to hem the sleeves or pants yourself you can do the following:  Cut off the existing hem (thread only) of the uniform with small scissors or a seam ripper.  Wear the pants, and fold each pant leg toward the inside. Once the length looks correct, pin it in place. Since these pants will be used in class you want to make sure that the bottom of the pants will not get caught under your foot.  Measure the new length of the pants and make sure that both legs are the same length.  With the fabric folded towards the inside, iron the edge of the pants of your uniform to make a good crease.  Now with a sewing machine equipped with a hemstitch feature, complete the hem.

Seam Repair:  Uniform seams that come loose can be harder than it may seem to repair.  Remember the uniform is going to be used in training where stress will be put on the seams.  Use a good quilting cotton thread, double stitch the area and zigzag the seam edges to give the repaired seam some strength.