News

Introduction: Leftist Morale Patches

Leftist morale patches are tiny, small patches that display political or social themes on the left side like labour solidarity, anti-fascism, mutual aid or humour. They are worn on backpacks, jackets, hats and bags. This guide will explain what they are, the different types, how to design and make them, where to obtain them and how much they cost, and whether or not morale patches are allowed on uniforms.

1. Morale patches and patch types

a) What Is a Morale Patch?

A Morale patch is a patch that is not official, is personal (usually attached with Velcro), and doesn't have to follow a standard procedure. The current tradition of the morale patch started during the Vietnam War when the soldiers started to create patches with jabs and criticisms. The commanders weren't enthusiastic about them, but they tolerated them as they were useful for their humor and camaraderie. Morale patches are typically not permitted on official military uniforms, although they can be seen on military uniforms and equipment. https://news.clearancejobs.com/2019/09/11/shoulder-sleeve-insignia-vs-morale-patches-the-history-of-whats-on-your-shoulders/ 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Morale_patch 

The concept was embraced by the civilians as well, and in its current form it hosts all sorts of identities and causes. One of those is constituted by Leftist morale patches, which are made in the same way and on the same backing as the morale patches, but with different images.

b) Leftist Patch, Left Morale and Liberal Morale Patches: What the Terms Mean

This subject is pursued in a number of ways: "leftist patch," "left morale", "morale patches liberal” and “Leftist morale patches”. All of them are in the direction of a morale style patch with progressive, labor, anti-fascist or social-justice imagery, with all of these patches falling into the category of “social justice.” The patch is identical to all other patches. Only the art work and message varies.

Symbols can have various interpretations. Some are for a particular organization, others for a wider value (like solidarity) and some are jokes. Know the meaning of the symbol to those who use it before purchasing and/or designing a one. The Three Arrows symbol is a good illustration below.

c) Types of Leftist Morale Patches

By theme

• Labor/patch and labor/union patches: raised fists, gear, "solidarity" lettering, union style emblems and labour rights slogans.
• Anti-fascist patches: the most famous is the Three Arrows. It was used in Germany on the Iron Front and was intended to desecrate the swastika of the Nazis. Since then, it has spread use throughout various left-wing groups worldwide. The three arrows pointing downward to the left are inside a circle on the emblem. https://annefrank.org/en/timeline/47/the-iron-front-marches-against-the-nazis 
  https://www.bustle.com/p/what-do-the-antifa-symbols-mean-the-flags-often-feature-three-arrows-76629
  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Three_Arrows
• Social democratic and socialist patches: roses, fist and rose, and red and black patterned. The Three Arrows continued to be adopted by French socialists until the 1970s when they switched to the fist and rose. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Three_Arrows
• Anarchist and mutual-aid patches: patches with circled-A designs and black flags and “mutual aid” slogans.
• Humor and satire patches: sarcastic slogans, in keeping with traditional morale patches.
• Environmental and social-justice patches: pride flags, climate themes and community-organizing slogans.

By construction

• Embroidered patches: thread on a base cloth. Today with modern technology, it is possible to make almost any design in thread. https://www.wikipedia.com/wiki/Embroidered_patch 
• Finely woven patches: finer detail and small lettering.
• PVC (rubber) patches: raised, waterproof and suitable for bold shapes and bright colors.
• Leather and printed patches: another style that is appropriate for jackets and hats.

A brief word on the Three Arrows: They're not quite the simplest. The Iron Front's aim was to protect liberal democracy from totalitarian rightist and leftist ideas. There are some fan groups who use this symbol that state that it is not about party politics, but human rights. Others view it as unequivocally political. Use symbols that you know, and be aware that listeners might interpret them differently. https://portlandflag.org/2019/12/16/the-mls-iron-front-flag-flap/ 

https://backiee.wasmer.app/https_en_wikipedia_org/wiki/Iron_Front 

2. Backing, application, creation and further details

a) Leftist Velcro Patches: What Hook-and-Loop Backing Is and Why It Matters

There are numerous customers who look for " Leftist morale patches”. Hook and loop is the generic name for "Velcro”. There is a rough hook side to the patch which attaches a soft loop surface to your bag, jacket or hat. These are the same as velcro patch, and hook-and-loop patch are used interchangeably.

There are three reasons why morale patches typically are given with a hook-and-loop backing.

• It is removable. Patches can be removed prior to a work related event, formal gathering or laundry. Hook and loop tape can be used to attach and detach patches as necessary. It's more important for political patches than most; you might want to switch them for various places.
• It is reusable. One patch can transit from backpack to jacket without stitching, which allows you to shuffle them in the event that you develop more.
• Prevents damage to the product. When a patch is sewn onto a bag or jacket the holes do not close back up. Hook and Loop attachment does not damage the fabric.

Choice also affects the appearance and durability of a patch. Later, iron-on adhesive was used to do the patching and a backing of plastic could help to prevent the design from bunching or wrinkling. Hook-and-loop is created by a stiff base that ensures even patching.

At the time of shopping keep these things in mind:

• The hook side should go over most of the back, and not a small strip in the middle.
• Edging should be merrowed or satin to prevent edges from fraying. The Merrowed borders are followed by an overlock stitch, a new development from the Merrow Machine Company in 1881. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Overlock
• Ensure that the backing is stitched or bonded securely – lower quality hook backing can easily come off the corners.

b) Leftist Velcro Patches: How to Attach, Display and Care for Them

It does require a bit of set-up to get a patch to adhere. Follow these steps.

1. Create a loop surface. There are many tactical bags, hats and jackets that are designed with loop panels. If you don't, then add one. Purchase loop side hook and loop tape or a loop panel, trim to the desired size and sew or glue to the body. It works for most patches with a 2" by 3" or 3" by 3" panel.
2. Clean surface of the loop. Loops are filled with lint and fuzz and the grip is weakened. It can be resolved by using a lint roller or stiff brush in less than a minute.
3. Squeeze from the center to the outside. Work in the middle and move towards the edges to avoid the corners lifting up, and keep all the hooks joined to a loop.
4. Make an arrangement before you commit. Spread out your patches on a flat surface before. Arrange them by theme or by color to give the display purposefulness. A combination of sizes will be more aesthetically pleasing than an equal size line.
5. Be careful with the "hook side”. Hook holds threads and lint. When not in use put patches on a spare piece of loop fabric or a patch loop board.
6. Wash with care. Take out patches prior to laundry. Hooks have a tendency to snag on other clothes and rip the backing.

Hook and loop patches can also be used on laptop cover which has a loop panel, wall boards and patch binders for display purposes outside of clothing. A loop board allows you to have your whole collection in one spot, and swap it out as you see fit.

c) Are Morale Patches Authorized?

This is one question that is often asked and the answer varies according to where these are worn.

• On a military uniform: Morale patches are not typically standard to wear on official uniform. They are not necessarily allowed in some units, but only insignia officially authorized in uniform regulations. Read your command's rules before using https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Morale_patch
• Political patches specifically. DoD Directive 1344.10 prohibits members of the armed forces, including retirees and reservists, from wearing the uniform during or in connection with political activities, and violations can be punished under Article 92 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice. Military members may attend political meetings or rallies only as spectators and not in uniform. A political morale patch on a duty uniform is therefore a risk for service members, whichever side of the spectrum it comes from. Personal bags and civilian clothing are different.
  https://www.jba.af.mil/News/Article/336705/dod-guidelines-provide-political-rules-of-engagement/
  https://www.army.mil/article/71574 
• For civilians. It's not against the rules to wear morale patches in everyday life. However, dress codes are at the discretion of the employer, school, venue and/or event, and some prohibit political symbols. Before putting on a patch to work, school or event, read the rules.

d) How to Design Leftist Morale Patches 

Ideal patch design is visible at small sizes. Use these guidelines.

• Keep it simple. A single strong symbol is better, or a short phrase. 
• Select appropriate size. Typical sized morale patches are 2–4 inches on each side. Smaller patches are good for hat, smaller pockets and larger for back and bags.
• Use bold lines. Embroidery will not show thin lines or small lettering. Make use of heavy lines and large, clear lettering.
• Limit your colors. There are costs associated with using three to five colors and they must be readable. The color scheme of red and black is a popular one among leftists, and contrast enhances visibility.
• Select a border type. The merrowed border creates a thick rounded border. For detailed shapes, a laser-cut or heat-cut edge is recommended.
• Relate the technique to the art. Bold shape suits are suitable for embroidery, fine detail suits for weaving, and bright flat colours suits for PVC.
• Examine a history of the symbol. Research the meaning of symbols and the people who use them before applying them to products.
• Make it your own. A patch is unique and not copied from others as it is adorned with original artwork and local slogans or in-jokes.

Make your art a clean vector file with solid colors (no grads). The maker then transforms it into instructions for stitch, called "digitizing”. With today's computerized machines, mass production is possible. https://reference.org/facts/Embroidered_patch/mbyWIXV0

e) How to Make Leftist Morale Patches

Do It Yourself approach (one or a few patches)

1. Draw design and transfer to piece of twill or felt.
2. Embroider it by hand or machine (home), using a stabilizer to prevent puckering.
3. Avoid fraying edge, and use a tight satin or blanket stitch around the design.
4. Fasten a strip of hook-side tape to the reverse of the patch slightly smaller than the patch so it will not show at the edges.
5. Try it on a loop surface and from the center press outwards.
6. Printed shortcut: Can be printed on fabric and the edges done the same way, but the fabric is less durable than embroidery.

Using the professional method (small or large runs)

1. Complete your art as a vector format artwork.
2. Send to patch maker who will convert it to stitch files.
3. Check digital mockup and OK colours and border.
4. The maker sticks the patches, cuts the patches, glues the border and glues the backing paper of your choice.

For one-off gifts and small collections DIY is best. The consistent quality is provided by a professional maker, especially when ordering a group for a union local, club or community group.

Pricing and where to buy: Leftist Morale Patches Near Me

a) Leftist Morale Patches Pricing

The size, technique, detail and quantity will determine the price. Generally these are the ranges.

• Ready patches, which are available in different sizes and types of materials, range from $4 to $12 per patch.
• Small runs (1-10): App. $6-$15 per piece, may include a set-up fee to prepare the digitizing.
• Custom orders of 50 to 100 or more: about $2 to $5 each. The more the demand, the lower the price.
• PVC Patches, these cost about $4 to $10 each in small quantities and less in bulk quantities.
• Hook and loop backing: usually provided, may be an extra $0.50-$1 per patch.
• Rush production and shipping, may be additional.

Reduce the number of colors, size and complexity of borders, and make orders in bulk to keep costs down.

b) Leftist Morale Patches Wholesale

Leftist Morale Patches wholesale means buying in bulk at lower per patch price is good for a shop owner, union locals, activist organization, an event organizer and any online seller. Stock packs typically sell for approximately $2-$6 per patch and custom 50 to 100 runs will come to about $2.50 to $5 per patch. At 500 or more, the price can fall to roughly $1.50 to $3.50 each. Many times a design will have hook and loop backing and a one-time digitizing fee of $20-$60 per design applies.

Rush Patch can embroider, weave and PVC patch any design and Leftist morale patches in bulk orders and provides a digital mock up prior to production for custom bulk orders. Amazon and eBay are good options for smaller stock multi-packs but look at seller ratings and photos of customers' stock first.

Please check the minimum order quantity per design, backing materials, lead time and final price (including shipping) before ordering. Test run a sample order to determine which designs are best sellers. https://rushpatch.com/

c) Leftist Morale Patches on Amazon

Amazon offers Leftist morale patches in various combinations like multi packs, generally it's simple slogans. Benefits include quick shipping, hassle-free returns, and numerous listings. The cons are that some sites may be of poor quality, and others have listings that are similar to what others have posted. https://www.amazon.com/morale-patches/s?k=morale+patches

• Check for "hook and loop" using the filter or search.
• View customer pictures and feedback on stitching and size.
• Be sure to verify dimensions in the listing as the size of patches may appear larger in photos.
• If it's custom work, ask the seller to confirm that he or she will accept a single piece.

d) Leftist Morale Patches on eBay

eBay is perfect for vintage and surplus Leftist morale patches, one-of-a-kind designs and independent patch makers. Older union and activist patches are not sold anywhere else, and are often available there. https://www.ebay.com/b/Morale-Patch/36070/bn_55191091

• Review seller ratings and ratings of the seller's recent transactions.
• Request additional pictures of both the front and back.
• Read the return policy, often custom items are final sale.
• If your order is a custom order, please request a digital preview before ordering.

e) Leftist Morale Patches from Rush Patch

Rush Patch is a custom patch maker, creating embroidered, woven, PVC and leather patches. For the leftist, it's appropriate for groups and individuals who wish to have their own design of Leftist morale patches, like a local union logo, a community group symbol or an original slogan.

Typically, artwork is submitted, and the type, size and backing of the patch are selected, then a digital mockup is posted for approval before production. It is possible to order a few patches, and the more you order, the less it will cost. https://rushpatch.com/ 

Conclusion

Leftist morale patches are a fusion of the morale patch format and political and social imagery. They can be easily removed and reused with hook and loop backing, bold designs work well at small size and can be purchased on Amazon or eBay or custom purchased from Rush Patch and available locally. Military personnel should consult uniform and political-activity regulations prior to wearing them in uniform. All other should review the rules at their work, school or event.

FAQ’s

Q1: What are leftist morale patches?

Answer: Leftist patches (which many people wear on bags, jackets and hats) that have a labor solidarity, anti-fascism, mutual aid, or satirical theme.

Q2: Are morale patches authorized?

Answer: Generally on non-military uniforms. Most places allow civilians to wear them freely, but certain employers, schools or venues have restrictions.

Q3: What does the Three Arrows patch mean?

Answer: It is an anti-fascist symbol that was created for the Iron Front in Germany. It is used by people today in various ways: anti-fascism, human rights, etc.

Q4: Are leftist velcro patches the same as hook-and-loop patches?

Answer: Yes. Hook and loop is the generic name for a brand called “velcro.”

Q5: How much do leftist morale patches cost?

Answer: Costs are approximately $4 to $12 for ready-made and $10 to $15 for custom embroidered (small runs) and $2 to $5 for 100 or more.

Q6: Can I make my own?

Answer: Yes. Design and embroider or print on twill or felt, trim edges and sew hook-side tape to the back.