Patch Timeline – Patch Buyers Guide.com

From the first embroidery machines to hook and loop on every uniform.These are the key dates in patch history.

Patch history at a glance

Making the patch

1863

The Schiffli embroidery machine

Isaak Gröbli builds the first Schiffli embroidery machine in Switzerland, the basis of large-scale machine embroidery.

Patches on the uniform

1911

The first 57 merit badges

The Boy Scouts of America issues its original 57 merit badges, starting one of the best-known patch collections in the United States. See Boy Scouts of America Merit Badges.

1918

The first division shoulder patch

On October 19, the 81st Division’s Wildcat patch is approved, the first official divisional shoulder sleeve insignia of the U.S. Army. See Military Patches.

1945

The combat patch

Wearing a unit patch on the right sleeve to mark wartime service becomes official after World War II.

Hook and loop arrives

1955

Hook and loop is patented

George de Mestral receives U.S. Patent 2,717,437 for his hook-and-loop fabric, the fastener behind today’s hook-backed patches.

1958

VELCRO becomes a trademark

The VELCRO brand name is registered in the United States. Collectors still call hook-backed patches “velcro patches.” See types of hook and loop patches.

Space and subdued

1965

The first crew-designed mission patch

Gemini 5 launches on August 21 with Gordon Cooper and Pete Conrad wearing the first astronaut-designed mission patch. See Space Patches.

1966

Subdued patches

The Army authorizes subdued green and black shoulder insignia for Vietnam-era fatigues, the start of the low-visibility look still used today.

The modern patch

2005

Hook and loop goes standard issue

The Army Combat Uniform is fielded with hook-and-loop name tapes, rank and shoulder patches, the first Army-issued shoulder insignia with hook-and-loop backing.

2015