label materials
27 May
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When it comes to product labeling, it is not just enough to come up with a creative label design that stands out. Before printing labels, one needs to select the right type of label material that will meet unique promotional, retailer and regulatory requirements and also protect your labels from different hazards.

Pressure sensitive labels are able to provide limitless design customizations and you can achieve almost any look you desire when you combine different materials and on-press techniques. Let’s have a look at some of the label materials that handle pressure.

Embossed Labels

These labels are able to offer a finish that adds shine, texture and depth to your label. Embossed labels have a look that seems like a stamp was pressed against the material to give your label raised pattern effects, textured decoration, raised lettering or bight highlights. You can combine embossed labels with a different face stock material in order to create varying effects.

Foil Stamping

Foil stamping is applied when one is looking to add a top of the line feel to their products as well as add a glowing, metallic look. It is a great alternative to metal foil face materials. Business owners who want to highlight specific areas of their labels, like the logo, use foil stamping. This type of pressure sensitive material is often used to create silver or gold look. The main advantage of using foil stamping is that you can use any color tint to make your labels more interesting and visually appealing.

Screen-Printed Labels

Screen printed labels are created when ink is applied through a screen that has openings designed in a specific shape. This type of pressure sensitive label allows business owners to add customization to their labels. Screen printing provides a ‘no-label’ look and if you get more creative, you can use it to create a more textured, engaging feel. These types of labels are mostly applied on premium wine bottles. The main advantage of using these labels is that they offer specialty solutions and give products shelf appeal.

How To Select Label Materials That Can Handle Pressure

The material makeup of a label determines how well it can handle pressure. There are four primary parts that make up pressure sensitive labels. They include:

  • Liner and release coating
  • Adhesive
  • Face stock with printed ink
  • Top coat

Premium materials cost more than traditional label materials, but they heavily affect the appearance of a label. Foil for example, is a premium option that is used for specialty brands or products looking to stand out with a metallic look. The type of adhesive you use depends on how your customers interact with a product, your packaging material and the environment the product must survive. Pressure sensitive labels require specialty adhesives so that they can stand up to certain hazards that can cause a label to peel.

Bottom Line

Not all labels require a specialty finish. However, when it comes to pressure sensitive labels, adding a top coat is paramount to give them a shelf appeal. Finishes also help to protect your custom labels from hazards and harsh use such as chemicals, temperature variations, sunlight and moisture.