I’ve started my preparations for The Edge-Man 2025 Championship a few weeks after this year’s event. Yes, I’m doing the work earlier than necessary, but I like to get a head start. The oveall theme is set and next year’s playmat is already done.

The 2025 edition of The Edge-Man Championship is called “Terror on the Bayou!”, where the haunting allure of 1950s classical horror movies takes center stage. Drawing inspiration from timeless classics like “Creature from the Black Lagoon,” the subtheme immerses The Edge-Man in a world of spine-tingling suspense. From The Force of Nature that stalks the murky depths of the forbidden swamp, to the terror of a haunted castle nestled deep within a dark forest.

Why have theme’s?

Setting a subtheme isn’t just about adding a quirky twist—it’s about injecting a dose of excitement into every new entry. With each Edge-Man championship, a fresh subtheme is unveiled, transporting players to uncharted realms of creativity and strategy. Whether it’s a nod to 1950s classical horror movies or a dive into an alternate reality of a post apocalyptic world set in the 1980s, called BattleWorld! The possibilities are as boundless. This ever-changing landscape ensures that no two tournaments are ever alike, sparking a sense of anticipation and curiosity that keeps participants on the edge of their seats. From brewing new decks tailored to the theme to unraveling the intricacies of themed gameplay, there’s always a new challenge waiting to be embraced.

In addition to the thrill it brings to players, curating these themed tournaments is an absolute blast for me as an organizer. It’s not just about overseeing logistics; it’s about unleashing my creativity and crafting unforgettable experiences. Dreaming up new subthemes, designing custom playmats adorned with evocative artwork, and brainstorming innovative ways to immerse players in the theme—all of it keeps the fire of passion burning bright. The joy of seeing players dive headfirst into the themed universe is truly incomparable. And let’s not forget the custom patches, each one a tangible token of the shared journey we’ve embarked upon together. Far from feeling like work, organizing these tournaments remains a labor of love—a hobby that continually evolves and never loses its magic.

Today, I want to shine a spotlight on a vital aspect of the Old School tournament culture: custom patches! These embroidered badges aren’t just colorful accessories; they’re symbols of honor, identity, and the unwavering spirit of our daring players, forging camaraderie among competitors. Designing your own high-quality custom patches is easier, cheaper, and faster than you probably think. Let’s learn how!

Designing your patch

The overall design of custom patches holds a pivotal role in conveying the essence of your tournament. It’s all about crafting a visual representation that leaves a lasting impression. When considering the shape and size for your logo, it’s crucial to strike a balance between visibility and aesthetic appeal. Opting for a shape that complements your logo’s design can enhance its impact, whether it’s a classic circle, bold rectangle, or a more intricate custom shape. As for size, you’ll want to ensure that your patch is large enough to showcase your logo’s details without overwhelming the viewer. The Edge-Man patch is a classic circle with a diameter of 3,15 inch (8 cm). Now, when it comes to colors, choosing hues that align with your “brand’s” palette is key for consistency and recognition. Vibrant colors can make your patch pop, while subtle tones can lend an air of sophistication. Ultimately, every aspect of your custom patch’s design—from shape and size to color scheme—should work harmoniously to capture the essence of your tournament and leave a memorable impression on all who behold it.

In the Edge-Man logo for instance, the barbarian embodies a paradoxical blend of ferocity and warmth, symbolizing the duality of the championship’s spirit. With his fierce countenance and imposing stance, he exudes strength and determination, reflecting the intense challenges and trials that await participants. Yet, amidst his rugged exterior, there’s an unmistakable sense of hospitality and camaraderie, evident in his welcoming open arms. Unlike the denizens of the magical realms of games like Magic: The Gathering, the barbarian is a stranger in this fantastical landscape, an adventurer on a quest for glory and conquest. Similarly, the players of the Edge-Man Championship find themselves as bold explorers, venturing into uncharted territories and pushing the limits of their abilities. In the embrace of the barbarian, both figuratively and symbolically, players find solidarity, kinship and beer, united by their shared passion for the thrills of Old School Magic.

Don’t overthink it to much but your patch is conveying a message to all who sees it. Think about the message you want to send. The design of our Edge-Man Championship patch is ingeniously crafted with the concept of subthemes firmly in mind. Its adaptable nature allows for seamless integration of theme-specific elements without sacrificing recognition. By cleverly separating the background and the color of the letters, the patch becomes a canvas ready to be transformed with each new theme. Whether we’re delving into the eerie realms of classic horror or journeying through futuristic sci-fi landscapes, the patch effortlessly adapts, changing its backdrop and lettering to mirror the theme’s atmosphere. This flexibility not only enhances the patch’s visual appeal but also ensures that it remains a cohesive symbol of the Edge-Man spirit, no matter the theme du jour. With every alteration, the patch becomes a tangible embodiment of our ever-evolving journey, echoing the dynamic nature of the Edge-Man Championship itself.

Here are some examples of different patch designs to match various subthemes, all withing the recognizable Edge-Man style.

It’s all about image!

While I personally create the patch images using Photoshop, there are numerous free online alternatives available for crafting the images needed for your own custom patches. Programs like GIMP, Pixlr, and Canva offer robust features and intuitive interfaces that cater to a wide range of design needs, making them accessible options for those without access to specialized software. Whether you’re a seasoned designer or a novice looking to dip your toes into the world of digital design, these platforms provide the tools necessary to bring your vision to life. From manipulating graphics and text to adjusting colors and dimensions, these online tools empower users to unleash their creativity and design custom patches that reflect their unique style and identity. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or a budding enthusiast, rest assured that creating your own patch images is well within reach, thanks to these free and user-friendly alternatives.

Time to order!

Once your patch image is complete, the next step is to order your patches from an online store specializing in custom patches. However, it’s crucial to choose a reputable store that offers guidance and expertise in selecting the right type of patch for your needs. Whether you’re considering pressed, embroidered, woven, or another type of patch, their experience can prove invaluable in ensuring your patch not only looks great but also withstands the test of time. A knowledgeable supplier can advise you on the best materials and techniques to achieve the desired result, taking into account factors such as durability and overall quality. Before committing to a large order, it’s wise to request a sample test to evaluate the final product firsthand. This allows you to make any necessary adjustments and ensures that the end result meets your expectations before proceeding with a larger production run. By taking these precautions, you can rest assured that your custom patches will not only look fantastic but also stand up to the rigors of use, providing a lasting symbol of your unique tournament identity. I ordered my patch at Vianen Trading, they offered great advise at a good price! They specialize in promotional items. With their extensive knowledge of products such as buttons, keychains, pins, and emblems, they successfully deliver items to individuals, sports clubs, associations, and businesses. They distinguish ourselves with high-quality products, the lowest prices, and fast delivery times. I can highly recomend them!

Share the fun!

I invite you to trade your custom patch for an exclusive Edge-Man patch, forging connections and camaraderie within the community. Reach out to me through Instagram or leave a comment on our website to initiate the exchange. Happy designing, and may your patches become cherished symbols of crazy beer adventures and tournament experiences!