Sewing on patches with proper thread

[BigBrother]

I'll need to remove a patch from a uniform for cleaning and I'm curious what I should give my tailor to put it back on...

- Period-original thread from a WWII sewing kit?
- Modern cotton thread?
- Something else?

I want it to pass the black light test, be sturdy, and be the proper color and thickness, etc.

What do you guys do?

Thanks!

 

[photo2u]

Use nos 16/3 cotton. Keep it original. Sewing kits are often 40. Not the best choice for this patch. It will work, but I would not do it.

 

[BigBrother]

Any suggestions on sourcing? Just eBay?

 

[Walter Neff1940]

First, just how dirty is the uniform? For me, if it is not major, then a collector would prefer a soiled uniform with original sewn patch verses a clean uniform with a reattached patch.
Your call but you run the risk of more damage by cleaning and trying to reattach than is worth it.
My vote is do nothing

 

[Peacoat]

Why can't the uniform be cleaned with the patch on it? I never removed patches when sending the uniform out to the cleaners

 

[BigBrother]

Because it needs dunk cleaning. It’s this scenario:

https://www.usmilitariaforum.com/fo...-dress-whites/&do=findComment&comment=2250214

with a much more stained/yellowed case.