3D PVC Patch vs 2D PVC Patch
You are creating a custom PVC patch for your group or organization and you want it to stand out.
One of the main reasons you might be choosing PVC patches instead of Embroidered or Woven, is because of their 3-dimensional look.
And while all PVC Patches can look 3-dimensional, there is a difference in the what their layers or levels are made…
2D PVC Patches
When we talk about a 2-Dimensional PVC patch, we are referring to a patch which can have 2 or more layers (or levels) and when looked at on a side view, each of the levels look flat, no roundness or curvy feeling to it…
In this picture you can see how the black background or base layer supports the whole patch, and the white design is raised above it, in a separate layer, creating a raised/recessed patch.
The white layer was made as a 2D layer, like lifted from the layer below it.

More examples of 2D PVC Patches












3D PVC Patches
When we talk about a 3-Dimensional PVC patch, we are referring to a patch which can have 2 or more layers (or levels) and when looked at on a side view, there is one or more level with a concave shape on the top of the layer, it can be perceived as rounded or curvy …
In this picture you can see how the green background or base layer supports the whole patch, and the black design is raised above it, in a separate layer, creating a raised/recessed patch, just like in the previous one.
However in this patch the black layer was made as a 3D layer, and the effect could be described as if it was inflated with air, like a balloon, or bubbly appearance. This effect can be very useful to give a reality appearance, especially for faces, heads, airplanes, anything where you would like that “popping out of the patch” or “coming at you” look.

This picture shows a typical arrangement of a PVC patch: a 2D or Flat “Base Layer” (Dark Gray) and then some 2-Dimensional (Light Gray) and 3-Dimensional elements sitting on top of this base layer (Black and White Text). The convexity of the 3D Elements can be appreciated from this angle, they are very rounded and “puffy”.
In this 3d patch, we find a black “Base Layer” with a second layer composed of one color (Red), in the 3-Dimensional fashion. A convex, soft, rounded feeling that pops at first sight .
More examples of 3D PVC Patches












What Now? How Do I Know if a 3D or a 2D Patch is Right For Me?
There is no way for us to tell you if a three-dimensional look will favor your design or not, without first looking at it. Some designs can look great, and some others do not benefit as much from a 3D look.
And considering a Three-Dimensional Mold will cost anywhere from 25-40% more than a Two-Dimensional one, you will have to outweigh the cost-value benefits of giving your pvc patch an “upgrade”.
There is no rule that a 3D approach is the only way to order to create a unique, eye-popping, cool pvc patch, this can also be done by using 2 or 3 or 4 2-D PVC layers.
If you are not sure which style will make your design look better, just give us a call 1.888.720.2115 or email us sales2@linxcorp.us and we will guide you through the process.
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