Question 1

Are PVC patches safe for use on turnout gear?

Accepted Answer

PVC patches are suitable for duty uniforms, jackets, and standard fire department gear. For structural firefighting turnout gear that is subject to NFPA certification requirements, check with your department's gear supplier or safety officer before applying any aftermarket patch: certified turnout gear has specific requirements about what can be added to outer shells without voiding certification. For duty shirts, station uniforms, hats, and non-certified gear, PVC patches are a standard and durable choice.

Question 2

What backing is best for fire department duty uniforms?

Accepted Answer

For duty shirts and station uniforms, sew-on provides the most secure permanent attachment. For jackets, tactical vests, and gear where patches need to move between items, Hook & Loop is the better choice — it lets you transfer the same patch from a duty shirt to a jacket without re-sewing. Many departments order with Hook & Loop as standard so patches can be updated when personnel change assignments or earn new designations.

Question 3

Can you reproduce our department's maltese cross or seal design?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Send us your department seal, an existing patch, or a reference image and we'll translate it into PVC. Maltese cross designs, department crests, and shield insignia all reproduce well in PVC — particularly in 3D, where raised borders and layered elements add depth that embroidery cannot match. You review and approve the Artwork Layout for Approval before we build the mold, so you confirm the design is accurate before production begins.

Question 4

What is the minimum order?

Accepted Answer

50 pieces. Best pricing starts at 100 pieces. Departments ordering station patches, rank designators, or specialty unit patches typically order at the 100-piece tier.

Question 5

How long does production take?

Accepted Answer

The full process from first contact to delivery runs approximately 5–6 weeks. Quote and Artwork Proof for Approval takes about one week. Pre-Production Sample takes approximately one week after artwork approval. Full production runs approximately 3–4 weeks after sample approval. If you have a specific deadline: a graduation ceremony, a new station opening, a memorial event, mention it when requesting your quote and we'll confirm whether your timeline is achievable.

Question 6

Do you make memorial patches?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Memorial patches for line-of-duty losses, retirement ceremonies, and department anniversaries are among the most meaningful orders we produce. PVC is well suited for memorial patches because the color and detail hold permanently, these are patches that get kept, not just worn. Send us the officer’s name, badge number, department, and any design reference and we’ll prepare an Artwork Layout for Approval for your review.

Question 7

Do you hold molds for reorders?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Molds are held for two years from your original order date. Reorders within that period use the existing mold — no mold fee on subsequent runs. Departments that order regularly for new officers, replacement patches, or seasonal gear pay only for the production run on reorders. If your mold is approaching the two-year mark, contact us to discuss extending it before placing your next order.

Material	Soft PVC rubber
Design Options	2D or 3D relief
Minimum Order	50 pieces
Best Pricing Starts At	100 pieces
Starting Price	Approximately $2.12 each at 100 pieces (3″, 2D, 2 colors, sew-on)
Mold Fee	Starting at $75 held for 2 years for reorders
Sample Turnaround	7-9 business days after artwork approval
Production Turnaround	Approximately 3 weeks after sample approval
Quote Turnaround	Within 24 hours

Custom Firefighter Patches: PVC Patches for Fire Departments

What We Make for Fire Departments

Why PVC for Fire Departments

Survives turnout gear conditions

Withstands repeated laundering

Accurate detail on complex insignia

2D vs 3D Comparison

2D PVC Patches

3D PVC Patches

Ordering for a department?

Specifications

How to Order

Free Quote Request

Customer Reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

Are PVC patches safe for use on turnout gear?

What backing is best for fire department duty uniforms?

Can you reproduce our department’s maltese cross or seal design?

What is the minimum order?

How long does production take?

Do you make memorial patches?

Do you hold molds for reorders?

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