How to Press Patches onto Richardson 112 Hats with the Branding Iron
Pressing a patch onto a Richardson 112 starts with three choices: a pad that supports the hat’s shape, a patch and adhesive made for the application, and settings matched to those materials. The Branding Iron 112 dual heated platen hat press includes a lower #2 PlatenPad molded for the Richardson 112 and independently controlled upper and lower heated platens.
Gather your hat-patch supplies
- A Richardson 112 hat and a finished patch suitable for heat application. Explore our blank hats for custom patches for additional hat options; choose a PlatenPad suited to the hat shape.
- Laser-ready leatherette sheets if you make your own patches.
- A compatible heat-activated hat patch adhesive, unless your material already has the appropriate adhesive backing.
- The #2 Richardson 112 molded PlatenPad and any cover pads specified by the application instructions.
The Branding Iron 112 Deluxe Set includes the #1, #2 and #3 PlatenPads, a partnering silicone mat, one silicone foam PressPad and other listed accessories. Check the product listing before ordering separate supplies.
1. Check the material instructions
Read the press manual and the instructions for your specific hat, patch material and adhesive before starting. Use their recommended temperature, time and pressure. There is no single setting for every leatherette, leather or embroidered patch. The press’s maximum temperature is a machine specification, not a recommended application temperature.
2. Support the hat’s shape
Use the #2 PlatenPad for the Richardson 112 profile. Load and secure the hat according to the press manual, checking that the front panel sits smoothly over the pad and that the patch area is supported. Check the center seam before pressing; wrinkles or uneven contact can affect the result.
3. Position the patch
Check placement against the center seam and the brim before closing the press. If your press has the optional laser alignment system, use it as a placement aid and confirm the final position visually. Use cover pads or the partnering silicone mat as directed for your setup.
4. Apply the verified settings
Set each heated platen according to the instructions for your material and dual-platen setup. Follow the press manual when adjusting pressure and running the cycle. Keep hands clear of heated and moving parts. Start with a sample hat and patch before running a full order.
5. Cool and inspect
Follow the adhesive’s cooling and handling instructions before checking the bond. Inspect the patch edges and the area crossing the hat’s center seam. If the result is uneven, review fit, pressure, time and temperature against the material instructions before making another sample. Record the successful setup for the same hat and material combination.
Build your workstation
View the Branding Iron 112 hat press Deluxe Set for the current package and laser alignment options. Find replacement foam heat press cover pads and other hat press accessories as your production needs grow.