Varsity jacket patches, also known as letterman patches, are primarily made from yarn stitched onto a base fabric, with the most common type being chenille.
The Most Common Type: Chenille Patches
When you think of the classic, fuzzy letters and mascots on a varsity jacket, you're likely thinking of chenille patches. These are the most common type of letterman patches, characterized by their soft, fuzzy texture.
According to the reference provided, chenille patches are made by stitching short lengths of yarn onto a base fabric, creating a raised, textured design.
How Chenille Patches Are Made
The process involves using specialized machinery to loop and cut yarn onto a felt or twill backing material. This creates the distinctive pile effect that gives chenille its fuzzy appearance.
- Yarn: Typically made from acrylic or wool fibers, providing the soft texture and vibrant color.
- Base Fabric: Often a durable material like felt or twill, which provides the structure and backing for the stitching.
- Stitching: A specific technique is used to create the textured chenille effect.
Here's a simple breakdown:
| Component | Material | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Textured Pile | Yarn (Acrylic/Wool) | Creates the fuzzy surface |
| Backing | Felt or Twill | Provides shape and stability |
| Adhesive | Glue or Sewing | Attaches to the jacket |
While chenille is the classic material, other types of patches used on varsity jackets can include:
- Embroidered patches: Using tighter stitching for more detail, often for smaller designs or logos.
- Felt appliques: Cut shapes of felt sewn onto the jacket, sometimes as a base layer for chenille.
However, the signature letters, numbers, and large emblems are overwhelmingly crafted from chenille, utilizing yarn and fabric as their core components.
