The 4th Texas (UK) - Equipment

The correct way to patch clothing

From the Authentic Campaigner website (www.authentic-campaigner.com)

When patching a hole in your uniform remember that the proper way to do it is from the inside out. Not by stitching a patch over the hole from the outside.

		The first step is to turn the garment inside out and trim the inside of the hole (fig 1).

		Next, find yourself a piece of fabric as close to the original as possible. Cut it to overlap the hole by 3/8" or more on all sides and pin in place (fig 2).

		Using a top stitch or backstitch, stitch around the hole staying as close to the edge of the hole as possible (fig 3).

		Finish off your sewing with a few quick whip stitches and tie a knot. Trim the inside edge or fellseam it to the inside fabric (fig 4).

		Take your time and be neat! Turn the garment inside out. Your finished patch should look...



		But remember! You don't need patches to look the part. Dirt is much easier to apply - and you don't need to make holes in your clothes. Plus click here to view the famous picture of three Confederates captured at Gettysburg. They look scruffy, but they don't appear to have a patch anywhere on them. Another good example is our own John Watt who has the gaunt look and rumpled clothing down to a fine art - but there's not a patch on him!