Since I have been running my hat bar for a few months, I have enjoyed adding other products that can be customized with all the patches that you already have! Follow my links to find the exact products I use or recommend!
What you will need to press the patches
First you will need a small shirt press that you can press flat products (although in a pinch I press patches in my hat press )
I have a small shirt press like this one from Cricut and it works great for small items. Just be aware that you won't be able to press with the shirt press at the same time as the hat press if you are using the 1000w Jackery Portable Battery. You will need a second battery or access to power. I learned this the hard way.
Here are a few other heat press options: HTVRONT Portable Heat Press 10x10 is basically the same as the Cricut, just cheaper. Their products are all great.
This little HTVRONT Heat Press Mini is a great option if you are just planning to do small products and don't plan to also make custom shirts. It is super affordable and shouldn't be an issue using with the battery while operating the hat press.
In addition to the press, you will also need a pad to press on. I use a 12x12 pad like this one. Or you could get a few size options like this set.
And just like with the hats, you will want a teflon sheet to protect your patches from the direct heat of the press and to keep the residue of the patches off the press. I always put the teflon down every time I press because it never fails that when I don't something gets on my press and then transfers to the next thing I press. Not fun when using a white front hat.
And finally, just like with the hat press, having some heat resistant tape will help you get the patches to stay in place when you press. I use this tape and have this dispenser. The tape is not super sticky, but it is usually enough to hold it down. Just remember to get a tape with right size core. My dispenser uses a 3" core.
Things you can customize!
Really, the things you can customize is limited only by your imagination! There are so many fun ideas. I have had kids bring a dress and I have added patches to it. I do give everyone the disclaimer that the patches are just iron on, so when they are put on clothes that are worn and washed a lot, the chance of them coming off eventually is high. Stitching them on at home is one way to make sure they stay on, or adding some glue. Most people recommend B7000 craft glue.
Denim Party
One fun idea, especially for a child's birthday party, is putting patches on jean jackets or jeans. People can bring their own jeans or you can provide them. Getting vintage denim from thrift shops and vintage stores is a fun way to add a twist to your event!
Crossbody Bags
Fanny packs, bum bags, crossbody bags, whatever they are called in your area, they are extremely popular and are so fun to customize. I get a lot of mine on Faire, but I know not everyone has access to that website. Here are some quality options here, here and here. Be sure to have lots of letter patches available because putting initials and words is very popular.
Make-up Bags
Small make-up bags are a great option as well! Just like with the crossbody bags, be sure to have lots of letter patches on hand! This style is very popular
One tip- depending on the material of the product you are pressing, you may have to experiment with the temperature and time you press the patches.
What are some other ideas of fun things to customize?
Backpacks? Kids can bring their own before school starts.