How to Sew a Chain Stitched Patch on a Denim Jacket

By Lucky Horse Press | Published: 2026-10-22

Category: How-to Guides

Learn to hand sew a chain stitched patch onto a denim jacket with simple steps, useful checkpoints, and tips to keep it flat and secure.

Quick answer

To sew a chain stitched patch on a denim jacket, position it, pin it, and use a simple whip stitch with matching thread for a secure, flat finish.

Why hand sewing beats iron-on for denim

Denim is thick and often has a textured weave that can make iron-on adhesive less reliable. Hand sewing gives you control and a stronger hold that moves with the fabric.

Chain stitched patches, like the Get Off Of My Cloud design, are made on industrial felt. This material is sturdy but can be thick, so sewing with a sharp needle and strong thread helps the patch sit flat against the jacket.

Steps to sew your patch

Position and pin: Lay the jacket flat and place the patch where you want it. Use safety pins or sewing pins to hold it in place, checking from a distance that it's straight. Mistake to avoid: placing pins too close to the edge, which can get in the way of your needle. Step back and check alignment before you start stitching.
Thread your needle and knot the end: Use a strong thread, like polyester or waxed cotton, and a sharp needle that can pass through felt and denim. Double the thread and tie a knot at the end. Mistake to avoid: using a thin thread that can break or pull through the felt. Pull the thread to test the knot before you begin.
Start from the back of the jacket: Push the needle from the inside of the jacket out through the patch edge, so the knot stays hidden. Pull the thread all the way through until the knot catches. Mistake to avoid: starting from the front, which leaves a visible knot. Keep the knot on the inside for a clean look.
Whip stitch around the edge: Bring the needle over the patch edge and back through the jacket fabric, about 1/8 inch from the edge. Repeat, keeping stitches close and even. Mistake to avoid: stitching too far from the edge, which can cause the patch to pucker. Keep the same distance from the edge for a neat line.
Secure the thread and trim: When you reach the start, tie a knot on the inside of the jacket and trim the excess thread. Gently press the patch with your fingers to smooth it. Mistake to avoid: cutting the thread too short, which can cause the knot to come undone. Leave a small tail after the knot for extra security.

Patch that works well for this project

Get Off Of My Cloud Chain Stitched Patch: This 3-inch sew-on patch is made in the USA with chain stitching on industrial felt. The sturdy felt and clear edges make it easy to hand sew neatly, and the size fits well on a jacket shoulder or chest.
Get Off Of My Cloud Chain Stitched Patch