How to show off your badges
Sew them, stick them or tape them
Getting new badges is one of the most exciting parts about being in Girlguiding.
When you attach them to your uniform, you'll be showing all the activities and challenges you’ve done while being a part of your section. You can move badges onto your camp blanket when you move section too, so you can keep showing off your great work.
Sewing works best because it doesn’t leave a mark and is the strongest way to attach badges, but if you or your carer can’t sew, you can still display your badges proudly.
These are our 3 top ways to attach your badges to your uniform.
Using fabric glue
If you’re not able to use a sewing needle and thread, fabric glue is a great option. Put some glue on the back of the badge and then press the badge firmly onto your uniform and let it dry. Make sure to follow the instructions on the fabric glue for the best results.
Use hemming tape
Hemming tape is usually used to make sleeves and trouser legs shorter (which might be useful if your uniform is bit too big), but it can also be used for attaching badges onto uniforms. It comes in a roll that can be cut or ripped into the right size and placed on the back of your badge. Cover it with a damp tea towel, then use a hot iron on a steam setting to attach the badge to the fabric. Make sure to get help from an adult to do this!
Hemming tape can come loose after a few washes because it sticks using heat. If this happens, you can stick the badge back on again by going through the same process, or put extra tape in any corners that keep coming off. If you use hemming tape, putting a few stitches around the edge of the badge will keep it more securely attached.
Sew your badges
The traditional way to attach badges to uniform is to sew them on. It’s the cheapest way to do it and will never leave a mark on your uniform when you take the badge off to put on a camp blanket. And it’s not as hard as it sounds!
You'll need a needle, thread and pair of scissors. It’s also helpful to have some pins to keep the badge in place while you’re sewing. Cut a piece of thread, tie a double knot in one end and put the thread through the needle. Then, go from underneath the uniform and then go up and down along the edge of the badge all the way around, until you get back to where you started. Cut the thread from underneath the uniform and tie a double knot.
And you’re done! The stitches don’t have to be really neat - it’s all about having the badges on your uniform and learning a new skill if you’ve never done it before.
If you’re a Guide, how about using your new talents to complete the craftivism interest badge? Craftivism is all about crafting items that make a statement and challenge injustice. Grab a sewing needle and change the world.
Want to find out more about our badges? Use our badge finder to explore what you could achieve next.
