While I’m not always sure what the difference is between an artist and a crafter, I do know one thing: I love dabbling in both. (Is it art? Is it craft? Who cares — it’s FUN.)
Recently, I bought a denim jacket from Nordstrom that’s absolutely covered in patches. Everywhere I go, people stop me with compliments, asking if I DIY-ed it myself. I always tell them the truth (nope!), but honestly, people seem shocked that I didn’t.
Which got me thinking… could I recreate the look on my own?
Fast forward a few weeks: I’m at the NW Event Show with my ride-or-die and BEATS WORKING – Winning the Game of Events podcast co-host, Libby Sundgren. We stumbled across this incredible booth called Mobile Apparelist, where they were customizing t-shirts, trucker hats, beanies, and tote bags with pins and patches on the spot. (Sober Curator Fun Fact! One of the owners is over 30 years sober!)
The booth was PACKED — and yes, we happily waited in the long line to craft our very own patch-covered trucker hats. (Worth it.) Check out my IG Reel of the NWES 2025 HERE.
Completely inspired, I went home, hit up Amazon, and ordered a handful of patches and some fabric glue. Then I consulted with my trusty ChatGPT Bot — lovingly named Charlie — for the best no-sew method to adhere patches. Charlie suggested:
- Arrange the patches first to create a layout that’s pleasing to your eye. (I’m an intentional maximalist. My drug of choice? MORE. 😂)
- Use fabric glue on the backs of the patches and let it get tacky for 15–20 minutes.
- Once positioned, cover your work with a thin cloth (like a pillowcase or sheet).
- Set your iron to the cotton/linen setting and press firmly for about 30 seconds over each patch/section.
- Turn the garment inside out and iron the back side of the patches for another 30 seconds. (each patch/section)
And voilà! I turned an old sweatshirt into something uniquely mine — no sewing required.
Will it last? Too soon to tell.
Do I love it? Absolutely.
Now when someone asks if I made this one, I can proudly say:
“YES, I DID!” 🙌
PS: If you try this DIY patch party yourself, tag us on Instagram @thesobercurator — I’d LOVE to see your creations!
PPSS: Did you peep the jacket from Nordstrom? Well GUESS WHAT – while I was looking up links for this post, I found basically the SAME jacket on another site for $60ish less bucks. Check it out HERE.
More Curated Jackets w/ Patches: If you love the look but don’t want to DIY yourself.
- DKNY Denim Jacket Nordstrom
- Austin Patch Denim Jacket
- Patch It Up Denim Jacket
- Multi Patch Hoodie
- Free People Varsity Patch Jacket
- Faux Patches Sweatshirt
- Aviator Nation Patch Crew Sweatshirt
CURATED CRAFTS: You got sober; what will you do to keep your hands busy? And no, you don’t have to take up knitting. Although, if you enjoy it, get your knit on, homie!
Art therapy is a technique rooted in the idea that creative expression can foster healing and mental well-being. You may be the next Sober Picasso, or you may be the next big Pinterest Fail. Either way, you’re creatively creating something with your hands and expanding your mind. That’s a great way to relieve stress and express your feelings.
Are you addicted to pinning? Make sure to follow along with us on Pinterest. Crafting is not your jam, but you may love to read. Head to our #QUITLIT section and see what we’ve been reading.
Are you a Sober Swiftie?
Then you’ll want to check out THIS ARTICLE and watch this episode below of The Sober Curator + Swift Steps Founder Julianne Griffin.
Resources Are Available
If you or someone you know is experiencing difficulties surrounding alcoholism, addiction, or mental illness, please reach out and ask for help. People everywhere can and want to help; you just have to know where to look. And continue to look until you find what works for you. Click here for a list of regional and national resources.
