UNIFORM INFORMATION & PATCH PLACEMENT

Below is an overview of beginner patches and where they should be placed on the student’s uniform. Patches are not iron‑on and must be sewn. We strongly recommend positioning the patches while the student is wearing the uniform—using tape or safety pins—before sewing. This ensures the patches sit correctly when the uniform is worn.

Patch Placement

Northwest Austin ATA School Patch  

Place this patch on the left lapel, directly across from the ATA Patch.

Make sure the kicker is upright and the side kick points toward the Northwest on the compass.

ATA Patch  

Place this patch on the right lapel, directly across from the Northwest Austin ATA School Patch.

Note: Tigers use Velcro animal patches in this location instead.

Uniform Care

• Do not use regular bleach on uniforms with patches—bleach will discolor them.

• Never wash belts.

• Students should treat their uniform and belt with respect. Most uniforms are 100% cotton and should be washed in cold water to prevent shrinking.

• Use detergents and stain removers carefully to avoid patch discoloration.

• Remove uniforms from the dryer promptly or hang dry to reduce wrinkles; iron if needed.

• Use caution when ironing near back decals.

• A student’s current rank belt should never touch the floor and should be kept clean and in good condition until the next belt is earned.

Uniform Fit

If sleeves or pant legs are too long, roll them under so the roll is not visible.

A few small tack stitches will keep the roll in place during class and allow the uniform to be let down as the student grows.

• Sleeves should reach the bend of the wrist.

• Pants should touch the top of the foot.

Safety & Dress Requirements

All jewelry must be removed before class: earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and rings.

• Adult students may wear a wedding ring—see an Instructor for safety precautions.

• Female students must wear a plain white T‑shirt under their uniform. 

• Male students do not need to wear a t-shirt under their uniform, but if they do it also must be plain white.

• No clothing other than undergarments should be worn under the uniform.

• Students with long hair should secure it before class begins.

Need Help Sewing?

If you don’t sew, you can look up simple sewing tutorials online or ask someone who does. Even basic hand‑sewing is enough to secure patches properly.

Recommended Reading / Watching:
How to tie a belt  - Northwest Austin ATA Youtube Tutorial