There are many places where embroidered patches are used such as for identification purposes for sports teams or local clubs, decorating purposes in the case of motorcycle vests or for rewarding students who are successful. But they’re also great for collecting and trading. You will see evidence of this in the Boy Scouts of America Organization. Boy Scouts have been collecting and trading embroidered patches and motorcycle patches for as long as they have been in existence. It’s a great way to meet new friends, remember local and regional events, and motivate individual scouts to achieve.

There are hundreds of different websites these days which are dedicated to the hobby of collecting Boy Scout patches. There is always a large section of camp devoted to patch trading whenever there is a large gathering of scouts either nationally or regionally. There are some events that are even organized solely around that purpose. And along with the patches, many scouts also trade other things like coffee mugs, flags, banners, and sashes.

Different Types of Boy Scout Patches

Within the world of collectors, there are three main categories of Boy Scout patches. The first kind are the achievement patches. These are given when scouts earn merit badges or other awards. Of special interest to collectors are old merit badges from past generations that are no longer made. These vintage merit patches are highly sought after among older patch collectors because they bring back fond memories of when they were scouts themselves.

There are also event patches that are collected. Wintertime events that are often held by local councils could be something like a Klondike Derby. There will be a new patch for an event like that each year. There will also be national events like Jamborees as well as regional ones and even statewide events. There will be special products for these events like baseball caps, T-shirts and embroidered patches. Finally, there are special events like Order of the Arrow gatherings on both the local and national level.

The third type of patch is for locations of interest in terms of the scouting world. The New Mexico camp, Philmont Boy Scout Ranch is a prime example. This camp has hundreds of thousands of acres and is situated near Cimarron. Any scout who completes one of the vigorous programs at Philmont will be awarded with a special patch of recognition and these patches are extremely valuable to scouts.

It is Possible to Start Collecting Embroidered Patches

Since the early days of Baden Powell’s first scouting troops in the UK, patches have been a part of their culture. They were originally used to denote rank as well as reward certain achievements; today they are so much more. Those who are members of the Boy Scouts organization should really consider collecting patches and trading them with other scouts.

If you’re not a Boy Scout, collecting patches of all varieties is still a wonderful pastime. Church groups, sports and collectible outlets, youth groups and craft stores are just some of the places where you will find embroidered patches. All you need to get started is a handful and a desire to see and learn as much as you can.