Are you ready to take it to the next level?
Creating custom airsoft patches for your airsoft team is a fun, collaborative endeavor that builds team spirit and sets you apart from the dregs.
It builds cohesion – and presenting new members with a custom patch makes for a perfect initiation ritual.
Grab a notepad and pen and settle in.
Why Your Team Needs Custom Airsoft Patches
A well-designed patch is more than a piece of fabric. It’s a sigil that can attract new members to your team and help teammates feel like they’re part of a well-oiled machine.
Some teams even design multiple patches that denote rank, seniority, or years of service.
The right kind of patch can become a talking point among the competition, and help them to remember (and fear) your team in future seasons.
Patch Designs and Materials
There are several options to choose from regarding materials.
These include woven patches, iron-on patches, and PVC patches. Each has its own upsides to think about. Woven patches allow for intricate designs and use thin threads.
They tend to be flexible and lightweight, meaning they won’t get in the way.
PVC patches use durable plastic material. They’re modern and sleek, water-resistant, and easy to clean – making them ideal for outdoor activities like airsoft.
Iron-on patches need only a damp cloth and an iron to be fixed to clothing. You’ll even find velcro patches on the market if you’d rather they were removable.
7 Tips for Creating Eye-catching Airsoft Patches
Airsoft patches don’t have to be complicated to stand out from the crowd. Above all, they should showcase your team’s identity and strengthen your sense of camaraderie.
Tip 1: Focus on Your Team’s Identity
Think about your team’s values. Ask yourself why you play airsoft together and what you want your patch to say about you. Try and reflect your team’s spirit in the design to distinguish it from others.
Tip 2: Go Bold and Simple
Aim for simplicity and boldness over intricate designs. Overly complex detail can be difficult to reproduce – or recognize – on a small patch. Focus on sharp lines and clear shapes that are easy to read and recognize from a distance.
Tip 3: Incorporate Your Team’s Colors
Your patch represents your team, so make sure it uses your team’s color scheme. If your team doesn’t have a specific color palette, consider opting for colors that reflect your personality and style.
Do you prefer striking, aggressive colors like red and black, or a zany, madcap mix of fluorescent purple and orange?
The choice is up to you.
Tip 4: Use Symbolism
Incorporate images that represent your team’s history, values, and mission. This fosters a sense of pride and unity among members and makes your patch memorable for outsiders.
Tip 5: Consider Some Typography
If your patch includes your team’s motto, choose a font that is easy to read. Ensure any text elements complement the colors and symbols you use and don’t detract from the overall impact.
Tip 6: Choose the Right Size
Think about where you and your teammates plan on using the patch. Are you planning on attaching it to your uniforms, bags, or gear? Choose a size that’s visible and proportionate.
Tip 7: Involve Your Whole Team
Don’t design a patch without gathering feedback!
Remember: Your patch is a symbol of unity. Involving everybody in the design process ensures it resonates – and some of your squad mates might toss in a suggestion or two you hadn’t thought of.
Some of your teammates might have played with other local teams in the past and draw inspiration from them. They’ll also give recommendations about how to make your patch stand out from the competition.
Finding Patch Ideas and Inspiration
The possibilities for patch ideas are only restricted by your imagination. Some popular themes and elements to think about include:
- Team mascots
- Military-inspired designs
- Geographical symbols
- Abstract patterns
If your team has an animal or fictional character as its mascot, you can adorn your patches with it. Naturally, many airsoft teams get inspired by real-world military units and their insignia. Consider incorporating elements from historical units, special forces, or even fictional organizations.
Examine the history of the military patch for more ideas.
If you’re local to a specific city or region, you might include landmarks, sigils, or other geographical elements in your designs. For a more minimalist and modern look, consider using abstract shapes and vibrant colors to create visually striking patch designs.
A great place to look for inspiration is TV and media. Talk with your teammates about the sorts of media you consume and try and draw out inspiration (over a couple of beers) from there.
Ordering Custom Airsoft Patches
Once you’ve designed your patch, it’s time to place an order. To do so, you’ll need to do a few things:
- Choose a patch manufacturer
- Submit your patch designs
- Review a sample patch
- Verify the number of airsoft patches you need
- Order your patches
- Distribute among your teammates
Some manufacturers offer customized online that let you design patches in your web browser (and you can find custom airsoft patches here).
Using an online patch designer is great if you’re stuck, need ideas, or want to collaborate with your team to create the perfect patch. Online design tools let you choose the size, embroidery, backing, and thread that your patches will use.
Once you’re settled on your design, consider ordering a sample patch. Getting your hands on a sample will let you check that it meets your quality expectations. When you’re satisfied with the result, the final step is to place your order and distribute the patches to the whole team.
All that’s left is to enjoy a sense of pride and unity and wear your patches to your next match!
Build Team Spirit
Designing meaningful airsoft patches that reflect your team’s values is a great team-building exercise that strengthens your sense of solidarity. Remember to choose the right material and size and incorporate colors and symbols that reflect what you believe.
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