[Ansteorra] reinforce cloak for brooch

[Ciard49 at aol.com]

Greetings good Gentles, 
 
A question please?  I need to make some sort of reinforcing on my  cloak due 
to the weight of a large set of brass double-brooches with chain. 
 
I want the brooches to stand pert and not droop. They have a very thick pin  
on the back about 2 1/2 inches long.  The 1/2 circle cloak  is made of white 
cotton twill, lined in suit weight acrylic plaid. 
 
I heard that the fighters use a leather patch (or something?) with  their 
stuff.
 
Can anyone describe how to make the reinforcements?
 
thank you
 
Ciard