What would be best way to take patches off material in this case a Girl Scout vest?

Question

I bought a used GS vest want to take number patches but always residue or glue used after ironing it on. What would be a recommendation just throwing it into washing machine or something else?

Answer 1

I've had some luck, good and bad, getting those patches off. The easiest thing to do is to sew on new numerals over the old goop.

Other things that work, depending on the goop:

1. Goo gone
2. Some you can just peel off.
3. Heat - sometimes you can heat up the vest in a dryer, and pick it off. Sometimes you can put a rag over the goop, and iron the goop onto the rag.

But this whole iron on line makes me cranky. They never stay on when you want 'em, and the goop makes it hard to recycle vests like we used to.

Answer 2

Sewing is the best option...especially if you have a friend who is a very talented seamstress. If they're sewn on you can make modifications later should you want to move the patches around. However, another option (which is more permanent) is the good old Girl Scout hot glue gun. A lot of moms use those for crafts. If you don't have one, there's bound to be someone in your daughter's troop who does. Check with the leader. Fusible adhesives such as heat seal backing and Stitch Witchery don't work well because they require a press to control time, temperature, and pressure precisely. I used to use them just to hold the patch in place to prevent puckering while I ran them under the machine. Good luck.

Answer 3

You can try fingernail polish remover, which may dissolve any glue residue. Also, Lighter fluid will dissolve glues. I have used acetone on white cotton when I spilt a bottle of nail polish on myself and yes I had to work at it but it did remove all of the polish and the stain. It didn't harm the fabric, I am not sure of the removal of color in the vest. Might try it on a sample of fabric such as an old shirt or towel. I have used Lighter fluid to dissolve glues as well, then use a grease/oil pre-treatment on it before you wash it.

Answer 4

Try Goo Gone, make sure you check first and see if it will stain the fabric. The label does say it can be used on clothing. After using it I would just stick it in the washer.

You can probably buy this stuff at Lowes, Ace Hardware, or Home Depot.