Introduction: Glow in the Dark PVC Patches

Glow in the dark PVC patches absorb light during the day and then illuminate your jacket, cap or pack at night. They are durable, weather-proof and sculpted and are used for tactical clothing, motorcycle vests, uniforms, fashion and costume clothing. This guide begins with science, as it addresses most of the buying decisions, then it discusses patch types, making and applying patches, pricing, wholesale and the place to purchase patches. 

1. The Science of the Glow

a) How does glow in the dark plastic work?

The glow in the dark plastic can do this because the plastic contains a material called a phosphor which stores light energy and emits it gradually. Most products using glow-in-the-dark technology include phosphors in a plastic compound and molding it into the shape of the desired product. When light is turned on, electrons are stimulated in the phosphor and when the light is turned off, the electrons fall back down and emit a faint glow. https://www.sciencefocus.com/science/how-does-glow-in-the-dark-work 

There are two common zinc sulfides, zinc sulfide and strontium aluminate, the latter being the newer and much longer. The difference is significant when you're shopping for a patch because it's the determining factor in how long your patch will last, minutes or most of a night's wear.

A Glow in the dark PVC patch is basically a PVC patch which has been treated with the phosphor pigment to be applied to the PVC. Patches containing such properties can be achieved by the addition of glow-in-the-dark or reflective pigments to the PVC material. Pale, typically off-white to light green in daylight, and will come to life once charged.

b) How long does glow in the dark plastic last?

It is dependent on the phosphor and the charge. Older Glow in the dark PVC patches products last for about 10 minutes and newer products last several hours. In practice:

• Patches of zinc sulphide: A strong, but fleeting light, typically lasting only for the first hour.
• Strontium aluminate patches: A brighter glow which lasts for several hours and gradually diminishes in intensity.
• A patch charged by a few minutes in direct sunlight or UV light will glow brighter and for longer compared with a patch charged by a fainter room light.
• You also lose the glow as you need time for your eyes to adapt. A patch "shines" best in a very dark room and will dim in a bright room.

The news is good for long-lasting, glow-in-the-dark products can be recharged many times with UV light, though the glow could decrease with repeated recharges due to degradation of the phosphor. A patch will not "run out” but can dull due to heavy sun exposure over the years. According to the same source, modern glow items are made with safe phosphors that are not radioactive, such as zinc sulfide and strontium aluminate. https://americanart.si.edu/blog/eye-level/2015/01/382/lunder-conservation-center-conservator-finds-art-dark https://time.com/7337988/are-glow-in-the-dark-things-safe/ 

c) Does PVC glow under black light?

PVC with glow pigment will react to a black light, but plain PVC will not glow under a black light. Black lights emit UV and the most effective method to charge a phosphor is UV. Glow in the dark items are best charged with UV Light, but regular ceiling lights will work, just not as quickly

There are two different effects and consumers sometimes get them confused:

• Phosphorescent patches: Light up when exposed to UV or strong light and continue to glow once the light is removed.
• UV-reactive/fluorescing patches: will only glow when illuminated with black light, then turn off once the black light is turned off.

When making a patch for a black light event or rave, make sure it is specified as "UV reactive" or "fluorescent”. Whether it is to be luminous on a dark road after a sunny day, you want "phosphorescent" or "luminous”. https://www.sciencefocus.com/science/how-does-glow-in-the-dark-work 

d) Is there glow in the dark paper? 

Yes. There are paper and cardstock that glows in the dark, which is accomplished by applying or printing paper with phosphor ink. Works like plastic, charges with light and glows in the dark. It can be used for crafts and signs and indoor decorations but cannot withstand weather or washing, hence the use of PVC for patches.

e) Glow in the dark PVC tape

Glow in the dark PVC tape is a flat, adhesive, phosphor pigment tape. Used to highlight stairs, edges, doors, helmets and equipment so people can see them in a power outage or at night. The glow chemistry is the same, but the difference between tape and patch lies in the design; a patch is molded into a raised design whereas tape is the same length and flat. A patch is what you need when you want your logo, skull or flag to glow. If you need to outline something, tape is less expensive and easier.

2. Types of Glow Patches

a) Custom glow in the dark PVC patches

Our Glow in the dark PVC patches Glow in the dark PVC patches are created from your artwork. The shape, size, colors and what glows, for instance, the lettering, the eyes of a skull or the outline, are up to you. For teams, brands, clubs and uniforms that require a logo that is readable at night, custom orders are the best option. https://rushpatch.com/products/pvc-rubber-patches 

b) Custom glow in the dark patches

It is possible to make PVC glow in the dark. Woven or embroidered patches with glow thread, or patches printed with glow ink are also available. The superior qualities of PVC are that the pigment is distributed throughout the PVC and the design is thick and raised making it glow. Embroidered glow thread is less prominent and thinner.

c) Glow in the dark Velcro patches

The most common gear style with glow in dark Velcro patches. They feature a loop panel and a hook at the back to which you can attach them to a jacket, a cap, a bag or a vest. The one glaringly illuminated police patch features rugged PVC construction and hook-and-loop Velcro that allows it to stick to uniform and has glowing lettering to ensure wearers can be seen in low or no-light conditions. For instance, a tiny phosphorescent 3-D PVC patch with a Velcro back that snaps to a bag, jacket, cap or vest equipped with a hook-and-loop panel. https://rushpatch.com/products/pvc-rubber-patches 

d) Glow in the dark iron on patches and iron on PVC patches 

Glow in Dark Iron on Patches and Iron on PVC patches are heat-activated patches that adhere to fabric. They're effective on cotton, polyester and blends, and are employed for caps and jackets. PVC is not heat sensitive so use "iron-on" with caution. This is a Heat Applied PVC patch which is intended for use with a professional heat press and not heat sensitive fabrics. Unless you have a household iron that can provide even heat and pressure, a household iron may be insufficient.

e) Rubber patch for clothing

Rubber Patch for clothing is the same product as PVC patch, as the two names can be used interchangeably. The patch is soft, flexible, waterproof and matte or shiny. A few PVC patches come with a sew channel, a little border around the patch so you can sew it onto, for a long-lasting fix. PVC rubber patches are normally waterproof and will stand up to splashes, rain, but not to be around harsh chemicals and high temperatures.

f) Men glow in the dark PVC patches

The dark pvc patches (usually worn on the chest) are generally tactical, military, motorcycle and outdoors themed, flags, skulls, call signs, blood-type patches and unit logos. They are also ideal for use on workwear as they enable people to see you in low light settings. Choose a size that will fit your loop panel and a design that has good shapes and is easily legible without the outline.

3. Glow in the dark pvc patches vs custom glow in the dark pvc patches

Glow in the dark PVC patches (pre-made):

• Designed by the seller and communicated to all buyers.
• Cost: Lower per piece, often about $2.50 to $10
• Uniqueness: Low
• Minimum order: None
• Pickup: Ready for pickup
• Suitable for: Temporary modifications, clothing, accessories, etc.

Custom Glow in the Dark PVC Patches:

• Your art, colors, size, and areas of glow.
• Cost: More expensive per piece at lower quantities, typically $3-$8 per 50 pieces.
• Uniqueness: High
• Minimum order: Usually 50 and 100 parts from manufacturers, less from specialty sellers
• Availability for turnaround is normally 2 to 4 weeks.
• Works well on groups, logos, team colours, and sports events.It is suitable for groups, logos, team colours and sports events.
• A range of examples demonstrates the ready-made range. Small patch with glow-in-the-dark PVC adhesive is $5, a larger, more luminous patch around $6.97 to $10.45 and a small, 3D phosphorescent patch is €2.55.

4. Making Glow Patches

a) Material needed for glow in the dark pvc patches

The materials required to make a glow patch are the same as any PVC patch, plus a phosphor:

• Liquid PVC (plastisol) which will cure to a soft, rubbery patch.
• Glow pigment: powder of strontium aluminate (for long glow) or zinc sulfide (for short glow) A typical mix will contain a significant amount, about 10-30% of the glowing layer, as it will otherwise appear dull.
• Colors: For non-glowing sections of the design.
• Molds: Metal or silicone molds that shape and raise the detail of the patch.
• Dispensing tools: Syringe or machine used to fill the mold.
• PVC Curing Oven or Heat Plate: Cures the PVC.
• Velcro, heat-seal, adhesive or sew channel backing.
• Trimming tools: These are used to clean up the edges.
• A ventilated work area and safety equipment is also required for PVC patch production, wear gloves and eye protection.
  https://www.chemistryworld.com/podcasts/strontium-aluminate/3008606.article 

b) How to make glow in the dark pvc patches

The basic process is as follows:

1. Design the patch. Maintain shapes' boldness and determine where the glows will be. The larger and thicker the areas, the more glowy they will be.
2. Make the mold, large enough to accommodate the glow layer.
3. Blend the phosphor into clear or light colored PVC (layer) 
4. Pour in the coloured layers and then the glow layer; be careful to not trap air bubbles.
5. Heat and cure, place in PVC makers oven at manufacturer's recommended temperature.
6. Cut and wipe down the sides.
7. Add the backing.
8. Test and charge the patch with light, then test in a dark room.

There are a number of tips for designs that will make a difference. Glow pigments require a light base as dark colours absorb light. Make sure that the areas of light are thick because a thin layer will contain less light. Also, do not put a UV-blocking top coat over the glow as it will block the patch from charging.

5. How to Apply Glow Patches

a) How to apply glow in the dark pvc patches

The way to use a patch will vary depending on its backing:

1. Velcro (hook and loop): Sew/stick loop panel to gear and then press patch on. This is the simplest way and allows you to remove and replace patches.
2. Sew-on or sew channel: Stitch around the edge using good quality thread. It provides the longest lasting grip.
3. Heat applied: A clean and robust bond with a heat press.
4. Pressure-sensitive (sticker): Unroll the paper backing and apply pressure to adhere to.

If using heat application, follow patch maker's instructions. Some typical guidance:

1. The 30 seconds is up to 20 seconds for structured caps because of their thickness, according to one maker, which states it has set the upper platen to 280°F and the lower to 320°F in the Hat press.
2. Another one reads 375°F on the bottom and 275°F on the top, with a pressure of 40-50 PSI or less for 15 to 20 seconds.
3. Garment, Flatbed press: 325°F for 17 to 23 seconds.

Always test on an unused piece of fabric! When using a household iron, place a thin cloth between the patch and the iron, avoid any sliding of the iron and wait 24 hours before washing the iron.

b) Care

PVC patches will last for a long time. Some manufacturers claim that they can endure up to 25 home washing cycles. To extend the glow patch life:

• Wash with care and refrain from using chemicals.
• Don't keep the patch wet for extended periods of time.
• Air dry, or use low heat.
• Remove velcro patches from garment if they are removable prior to washing.

6. Glow in the Dark PVC Patches - Pricing and Wholesale

a) Glow in the dark pvc patches pricing

The cost of Glow in the dark PVC patches varies with the size, complexity, quantity, number of colors and backing. Normally PVC patch prices are approximately $1 to $5 for small quantities. Glow pigment is an additional cost as strontium aluminate is more expensive than normal colorants. These are more realistic ranges:

• Ready-made glow patches $2.50-$10 per patch, depending on size.
• Custom, 50 pieces: About $3 to $8 each.
• Custom, 100 pieces: About $2.50 to $6 each.
• Custom, 500 pieces: About $1.50 to $4 each.
• Heavier or larger barges: Higher, due to increased amount of material and larger mould.
• A one-time mold charge could be applied and additional features like velcro backing, multi-level 3D detail, and a sew channel can add to the cost.

b) Glow in the pvc patches wholesale as well: bulk orders and MOQs

Glow in the pvc patches wholesale and custom orders will have minimums. The minimum order is different from one manufacturer to another, ranging from 50 patches to 500 or more. The more you order the more the price of patches will reduce and a 1000 piece order may be half the price as a 50 piece order. https://rushpatch.com/products/pvc-rubber-patches 

Tips for wholesale orders:

• Do request a sample patch and test the glow prior to approval of a bulk run.
• Check the glow to make sure that it is strontium aluminate glow for longer glow.
• Verifies backing and size tolerance and color match.
• Obtain written estimate including mold costs, shipping and lead time.
• Buy a little extra just in case there are some patches which are lost, swapped or given away.

7. Vendor/Buying Guide: Where to Buy . . . Glow in the Dark

a) Glow in the dark pvc patches amazon

Amazon has a variety of patches available that are ready to use such as small tactical and morale patches, large lettering patches and typically will have velcro backing. Shipping is quick and reviews enable you to compare the brightness of the glows. 

Check the description to make sure the patch is not just a light color, but a "light up" patch and to see if there are any customer photos taken in the dark. There is a variation in quality and it is best to make sure that the backing is the right kind of hook and loop. Search here: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=glow+in+the+dark+pvc+patches 

b) Glow in the dark pvc patches ebay

eBay is useful for designs that aren't available elsewhere, for small batch sellers and for custom patches created by an independent patch maker. You can 'messengers' sellers on size, colours and the amount of glow and request a picture of the patch glowing. Look for feedback scores and read the return policy. International sellers may take weeks to ship, be sure to inquire. Search here: https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_nkw=glow+in+the+dark+pvc+patches 

c) Glow in the dark pvc patches Rush Patch

Rush Patch makes custom PVC rubber patches, and because glow-in-the-dark pigments can be added to PVC material, a glow version is something to request when you ask for your quote. Share your artwork, choose the size and backing (velcro is the most popular for gear), and say which parts should glow, such as the lettering, outline, or eyes of a character, since light-colored, thick areas glow brightest. https://rushpatch.com/ 

Every order includes a free AI-generated proof before production, plus a free roll of thermal tape, so you can check the layout before anything is made. Standard production ships in about 9 to 13 business days after proof approval, select patch types can ship in 5 business days with rush production, and shipping is free on orders over $200. 

To see what your size and quantity will cost, use the pricing calculator on the PVC rubber patches page: https://rushpatch.com/products/pvc-rubber-patches . The trade-offs are a longer turnaround than ready-made glow patches and a higher price per patch at small quantities, but for a custom design that stays visible after dark, it is a strong fit.

Conclusion

Glow in the dark PVC patches are actually a useful and attractive method of being visible at night. Strontium aluminate provides the longest glowing time, a few minutes if placed under the UV or sun will charge the patch, and PVC will not glow under a black light unless it contains phosphor. Patches that are pre-made range in price from $2.50 to $10.

Custom size patches vary with quantity, but are about $1.50 per piece, and minimums for wholesale begin at about 50 pieces. Choose Velcro for flexibility, sew-on for permanency and heat-applied for a clean finish with the proper press. Amazon and eBay are both good options to begin with.

Looking to create your very own patch? Create your glow patch today and check out a proof before placing your order!