Sewing Navy Patches

It is best to leave the sewing duties to a professional when it comes to putting on new rate patches, insignias and other items. Every base has at least one vendor who can handle the sewing for you. If you absolutely need to have patches sewn on, consult the Navy's Uniform Regulations, which will give you the exact specifications on where and how to sew on rank and insignia. These instructions are very detailed and require a great deal of care and attention to get right.
Most Seamen are given adequate time to have new ranks sewn on, but in cases of frocking, where new rank can be assumed immediately, it's best to anticipate being frocked and have at least one uniform ready to wear with your new rank and rate patch insignia already sewn on.