If you've ever shopped for iron on patches you've probably seen warnings about using them on the leather or nylon. Most of the warnings don't go on to say why this is a problem, they simply suggest that you shouldn't attempt it.
So what is the problem? Is there anything you can do to get around it?
The biggest problem with iron on patches is the fact that the adhesive used on the backs of these patches does not adhere to some surfaces. In the case of leather and nylon the adhesive would simply slide right off the surface along with your patch. At the very least you'd be wasting your time only to find out your patch won't stay in place. At the worst however, you could damage the piece of clothing you're attempting to mount the patch on.
The reason these patches are known as "iron on" is the fact that you use a hot iron to activate the glue. The heat melts it just enough to get it to stick to the underlying surface where it will harden once the heat is removed. Where leather and nylon are concerned there is a high likelihood that the hot glue will burn these two surfaces. Not only will your patch not stick, but when you attempt to clean the glue off you'll be left with an unsightly stain or a burn mark.
If you want to attach custom or stock patches to your leather or vinyl apparel you should either purchase some glue specifically made for that purpose or use the old-fashioned needle and thread method. The special glue can be purchased at most craft stores if you don't feel like sewing. If you can manage to use needles and thread it's still the safest choice.
