Knowing the timeline helps you plan around events, launches and seasons. Here is the typical path from idea to doorstep.
The 5 steps
| Step | What happens | Your role |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Upload artwork | You send your design and details | Provide clean artwork and specs |
| 2. Free mockup | We digitize and email a proof | Review the mockup |
| 3. Approve | Confirm size, colors, border, backing | Approve or request revisions |
| 4. Production | Patches are made after approval | Nothing — sit tight |
| 5. Delivery | Shipped across the USA | Watch for delivery |
How long does it take?
Production and shipping typically take 8–12 business days after you approve your digital sample. Exact timing depends on size, complexity and quantity, and your quote confirms turnaround. Rush services may also be available.
What can cause delays?
- Slow mockup approval.
- Late artwork changes after approval.
- Complex designs or very large quantities.
- Address or shipping details that need correcting.
How to speed things up
- Send vector or high-resolution artwork.
- Include size, quantity and backing in your first message.
- Review the mockup promptly.
- Ask about rush options for tight deadlines.
Planning around deadlines
Work backward from your event date and add a buffer for shipping. For events, see our event planning tips. For large runs, see the bulk order guide.
Timeline planning for common deadlines
- Product launch: approve the mockup at least a few weeks before launch.
- Holiday season: order early — shipping volumes are higher.
- Sports season: order before tryouts or the first game.
- Trade show or event: work back from the event date with a delivery buffer.
How to avoid delays
- Send vector or high-resolution artwork.
- List all colors, size and backing upfront.
- Reply to mockup questions the same day.
- Approve changes in one round where possible.
- Double-check the shipping address.
What about rush orders?
Rush services may be available for tight deadlines. Tell us your date when you request your quote and we will advise what is possible for your patch type and quantity.
What happens behind the scenes at each stage
- Artwork review: we check file quality and design details.
- Digitizing: artwork is converted into stitch or weave instructions.
- Mockup: a digital proof shows size, colors and details.
- Approval: your sign-off starts production.
- Production: patches are made and quality-checked.
- Shipping: packed and sent across the USA.
How complexity and quantity affect timing
Larger sizes, dense stitching, special materials and higher quantities generally take longer to produce. Your quote confirms the expected turnaround for your specific order.
Tips for last-minute orders
- Contact us with your deadline before submitting artwork.
- Send print-ready files.
- Respond to mockup questions immediately.
- Confirm a reliable delivery address.
- Ask about rush options for your patch type.
