Attention new Cub Scout parents—this is a quick guide for patch and emblem placement. Please share this blog with other new parents as well, as a Scout is always helpful. It is important to mention that the Guide to Awards and Insignia is an excellent resource to have for a more detailed explanation of emblem placement, including various other patches and insignia. This guide is intended to be a helpful starting point for new parents!

If an emblem or badge is noted to be "earned", it is not needed on the uniform to start with - they are only available in your local council trading post or Scout Shop with the required paperwork (or online by following these steps). All emblems and badges are sold separately.

1. US Flag Emblem: New uniforms already have this sewn on in the correct position - right sleeve, position #1.
2. Den Number: Right sleeve, position #2.
3. Cub Scout Outdoor Activity Emblem: This is an earned emblem and goes on the flap of the right pocket.
4. Temporary Patch Position: Only one temporary patch can be worn at a time; these can be hung from the right pocket button, either by the emblem button loop or with an emblem holder. These are earned patches.
5. World Crest Emblem and World Crest Ring: The World Crest Emblem is required for all uniforms and is worn above the left pocket. The World Crest Ring is optional but very common; the Ring is worn around the World Crest emblem above the left pocket between the left shoulder seam and the top of the left pocket, or 3/8” above the pocket seam.
6. Cub Scout Rank: These form a diamond shape once they have all been earned.
   • The Bobcat badge is in position #1 on the left pocket, centered and directly beneath the flap.
   • The Wolf rank badge is position #2 on the left pocket, to the left, and down from the Bobcat emblem.
   • The Bear rank badge is position #3 on the left pocket, to the right, and down from the Bobcat emblem.
   • The Tiger rank badge is position #4 on the left pocket, directly underneath the Bobcat emblem.
   • The Lion rank badge goes underneath the left pocket, roughly 1.25” from the bottom of the pocket seam.
7. Council Shoulder Patch: Left sleeve, position #1. This patch lines up perfectly with the sleeve seam because of its curved upper edge!
8. Unit Numerals: Left sleeve, position #2. These go right under the Council Shoulder Patch (touching if a veteran unit bar is not worn).

Not into sewing? Check out the Badge Magic Kits, which are basically peel-and-stick stickers made specifically for the emblems and patches of the Cub Scout uniform.

We’d love to see your uniform pictures - be sure to share them with us by tagging Scout Shop in your Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter posts. For more Cub Scout uniform insignia, tops, pants, and neckerchiefs, please visit ScoutShop.org—the official store of the BSA.