The Badge Archive

Finding Fun Patches

You can always do your own activity and get your own Fun Patch to put on the back of your uniform. There are some places that have made their own fun patch programs where the patch has requirements to earn just like the official GSUSA badges.

Fun Patch Companies

The Girl Scout shops have some, usually ones that have “Girl Scout” written on them to make them specific for a Girl Scout activity.

Other companies sell fun patches at lower prices, but always be aware of what the shipping will be before thinking you found a great discount.

Find a fun patch online, try these locations:

Also – Read about where to get Custom Fun Patches.

Important Notes About Vendor Status

Some vendors listed above have been involved in copyright or branding disputes with GSUSA or other patch creators. Inclusion on this list does not imply endorsement, and we encourage leaders to do their own research before purchasing.

  • We have been notified that Bear Necessities Sublimation is in violation of GSUSA branding guidelines, but have no additional information.
  • Girls Love Scouting and Making Friends have previously resolved legal issues with GSUSA and removed certain badge-related products and are in compliance as far as we are aware.
  • Joy of Patches and Mad About Patches are known for quality and creativity, but may produce patches inspired by media or Girl Scout themes that could raise copyright concerns. We are not aware of any legal actions against either company.
  • GS News & Activities is not affiliated with GSUSA and is known to resell patches from other vendors. Multiple creators have reported that GS News & Activities has repackaged or rebranded their patch programs without permission.

We list vendors that have at least three unsolicited positive reviews from troop leaders and have demonstrated reasonable quality and shipping reliability. This list is community-sourced, not official, and is updated based on feedback and transparency.

Artistry Badges

Some badge creators offer patches that closely resemble official GSUSA badges in shape and style. However, these are not officially recognized by GSUSA or local councils. In fact, GSUSA has taken legal action in the past, issuing cease-and-desist notices to companies producing badges that mimic the official shape and size, as this may violate trademark and branding guidelines.

These patches are often referred to as “artistic badges” and are intended to be worn on the back of the uniform, alongside fun patches. Many troops have used them for the front of the uniform due to their similar shape and size. While unofficial, they are thought to be a great way to explore topics not covered by the current GSUSA badge catalog, especially for multi-level troops looking for shared, inclusive activities.

Vendors offering artistic badges include:

Note on “Official-Looking” Badges

Some of these badges resemble GSUSA’s official designs, and leaders may be tempted to place them on the front of the uniform. However, unless a badge is issued by GSUSA or an approved council, it is technically unofficial and should be placed on the back of the vest or sash.

Historical Context: MYOB & Troop’s Own

Many of these artistic badges are inspired by retired GSUSA programs:

  • Make Your Own Badge (MYOB):
    Scouts were allowed to create one badge per year, including both the requirements and the design. Purchasing a pre-designed badge or earning more than one annually invalidates the original intent of the MYOB program.
  • Troop’s Own Badges (1960s–2011):
    These were designed by a troop for their own use and were not meant to be shared or earned by others. In the 1980s and beyond, councils required approval of the design and requirements before a Troop’s Own badge could be created. Since this program was retired in 2011, no current council review process exists, making any new “Troop’s Own” badges unofficial by default.

What Leaders Should Know

While GSUSA no longer supports MYOB or Troop’s Own programs, many troops still enjoy using artistic badges to fill gaps in the official program. Just keep in mind:

  • These badges are not officially recognized and should be worn on the back
  • They can be a great tool for creativity, inclusion, and multi-level engagement
  • There is no enforcement body (“no badge police”), but leaders should be transparent with families about what’s official vs. unofficial

How Companies are Added to the Fun Patch List

If you’re a patch vendor and would like to be considered for this list:

  • Please send us your business info (website, ordering process) via our Contact Us form.
  • We ask that you do not solicit customers in Facebook groups where we post a request for who has used your company and what they think.
  • We look for organic recognition. If leaders know and trust your brand, we’re more likely to include it.
  • We aim to balance supporting small businesses with protecting our community from scams, low-quality products, or copyright violations.

Thank you for your interest and for helping us keep scouting creative, safe, and fun!

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For More Fun Ideas and Plans

for Daisy, Brownie, and Junior Scouts

Join the Girl Scout Daisy, Brownie, and Junior Leader Help Facebook Group
(Not an official GSUSA Group)

This is a supportive community for Cadette, Senior, and Ambassador Girl Scout leaders. This group offers solutions to keep older scouts engaged in scouting amidst their busy lives. Share strategies, tackle challenges, and exchange ideas for fun, meaningful activities that resonate with teens and build lasting connections.

for Cadette, Senior, and Ambassador Scouts

Join the Girl Scout Cadette, Senior, and Ambassador Leader Help Facebook Group
(Not an official GSUSA Group)

This is a supportive community for Cadette, Senior, and Ambassador Girl Scout leaders. This group offers solutions to keep older scouts engaged in scouting amidst their busy lives. Share strategies, tackle challenges, and exchange ideas for fun, meaningful activities that resonate with teens and build lasting connections.

Find out how you can support The Badge Archive!

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Tia Kennard