The True Art of Creating a Space Patch

If you're a space enthusiast, owning a finely curated collection of space patches is one of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to show off your hobby. Collecting space patches has allowed generations of space enthusiasts to express their unique interest through the clothes that they wear. 

At first glance, space patches might not appear to be all that special. After all, patches can get worn and tattered over time. Plus, many see a space patch as a simple piece of embroidery. The truth, however, is that space patches have a long history and have been created by some of the most prestigious space artists in recent history. 

If you want to start a space patch collection, knowing about the history as well as the artistry behind them is crucial. This will help you determine which patches are worth your investment.

What is a Space Patch?

A space patch is a small piece of embroidered cloth that depicts a memorable event in the history of space exploration. Typically, space patches commemorate a mission that NASA has successfully accomplished. Shortly before the mission, an artist is commissioned to create a logo that depicts the event. Then, it's turned into a patch that is sold in limited quantities. 

Many space patches are highly collectible. For instance, the patch that was created to depict the Apollo 7 mission continues to be in high demand due to the unique circumstances of the mission. Also, it's safe to assume that the older the patch, the more valuable it is today. 

Not everyone collects space patches to wear them. Some believe that wearing them on a jacket or a backpack will cause the embroidery to become undone. A large number of collectors choose to acquire patches and store them somewhere safe where they won't get damaged over time.

The Process of Making a Space Patch

A space patch starts with a digital illustration made by an artist who was specially commissioned due to their ability to create an eye-catching visual symbol of a particular space mission. 

The digital artwork is then converted into a image that can be read by an embroidery machine. This step requires extreme caution as it's important that the original image is not altered in any way. 

Once the design is ready, a sample is printed using an embroidery machine. The sample must be approved before it goes into mass production. After the sample has been approved, industrial embroidery machines get to work. 

After the patches have been printed, they are backed with PVC material. Then, they are checked for quality and given a special border.

A Good Investment