Ask the Designer: Woven Patches

Jul 17

Our embroidered patches are more than just decorative additions; they're conversation starters, personal statements, and often, witty commentaries on modern life. This particular collection delves into themes of time, consciousness, and digital habits. Here, our lead designer shares the genesis and deeper meanings behind these intriguing designs.

What was your inspiration for these designs?

"My inspiration for this set of embroidered patches was primarily a reflection on the human condition in the digital age, particularly the subtle ways our time and minds can be consumed. The Grim Reaper patches – 'Scroll to Your Doom' and 'Scroll Until Death' – were a direct, darkly humorous commentary on the pervasive nature of endless scrolling and the irony of how much precious time we can unknowingly surrender to it. It's a modern memento mori, a reminder of finite time spent on infinite feeds. The 'Time Wasters Club' patch builds on this, a playful yet poignant self-acknowledgment of procrastination and distraction that many of us can relate to. On the flip side, 'Free Minds Think Alike' was inspired by the power of independent thought and the incredible connection found when individuals who truly think for themselves, find common ground. Together, these 4-inch patches are designed to be both aesthetically striking and thought-provoking, encouraging a moment of reflection on how we spend our time and where our attention lies."

What do these patches mean?

"Each of these quality patches carries a distinct message, collectively forming a narrative about awareness, choice, and mental freedom:

'Scroll to Your Doom' & 'Scroll Until Death' (Grim Reaper Patches): These two designs, featuring the iconic Grim Reaper with a scythe, serve as stark, satirical warnings about the addictive nature of digital scrolling. They highlight the idea that constantly consuming content without purpose can lead to a metaphorical 'doom' of wasted time and unfulfilled potential, even suggesting a literal 'death' to productivity or real-world engagement. They challenge the viewer to reflect on their own digital habits.
'Free Minds Think Alike': This patch, with its compass and skull motif, champions independent thought and intellectual camaraderie. The 'free mind' suggests breaking away from conventional or controlled thinking, while 'think alike' implies that true, independent thinkers often arrive at similar profound conclusions or share common values. It celebrates critical thinking and the bond formed through genuine intellectual freedom, rather than mere conformity.
'Time Wasters Club': This round patch, featuring an old clock and a retro TV, is a humorous yet relatable critique of procrastination and distraction. It's an ironic 'membership badge' for anyone who finds themselves habitually putting off tasks or getting lost in unproductive activities. It serves as a lighthearted, self-aware reminder to manage one's time more effectively and avoid falling into the trap of endless digital consumption.

These embroidered patches, with their bold designs and poignant messages, are more than just accessories. They are unique patch uses that prompt introspection about our choices, our time, and the quality of our attention in the modern world."

Jordan Sutter