Labels (Cut to Finished Size) FAQ
What does "Cut to Finish Size" mean?
Cut to Finish Size means that the labels will be provided cut down to the size that was ordered. If, for example, the size ordered is 2"x3.5", the labels will be exactly 2"x3.5". They will not be on a roll or have a certain number on a sheet. If Avery-style label sheets are needed, these can be requested through a custom quote.
Are custom shapes available?
Yes, custom shapes can be ordered. As the shapes would be cut out with a die (think cookie-cutter style), it is possible that there is a die on hand in the desired shape or very similar. Therefore, it is best to reach out for a custom quote, and include the shape (often called a "Die Line") so that the die inventory can be checked.
What does Crack and Peel mean?
Crack and Peel refers to the liner on the back of the label stock and means that it will have slits or scores that allow the liner to "Crack" into sections so that a small portion can be peeled off. This is very useful when hand applying labels, as it is much easier to position with the liner on. Once the label is in the proper location and stuck in place with the small exposed section of adhesive, the rest of the liner can be removed and the label smoothed onto the surface, which helps prevent crooked labels or wrinkles.
Can Labels (Cut to Finish Size) be used with a labelling machine?
Cut-Sheet labels are not compatible with labelling machines. They are intended for hand application for test runs, if the container is not compatible with labelling machines, or if the labels will be handed out as promo items. Please visit the Roll Labels page if you want to use a labelling machine to apply the labels.
Which Label stock is best to write on?
The best option to choose for labels that need to be written on would be the 60lb Uncoated Label. This material can be written on with pens, pencils, markers, and speciality writing devices without the ink smudging risk. 60lb Gloss and the Vinyl options can be written on, however only with a Sharpie-style marker and certain pens. If the ink is too watery, it will need to dry before being handled or else it could smudge or smear. Gloss or silk lamination is also compatible with markers and certain pens, but the ink might need to dry. As UV coating is oil-based, it will not work with any type of writing implement and should be avoided if the labels need to be written on.
Which label stock is best for oil-based products?
If the product is oil or water-based or will be used in a damp environment (like in the shower or bathroom), the best material to choose would be one of the vinyl options or the clear gloss label. These are all made of plastic and will not break down or rub off if in contact with moisture, or be affected by oily products the way that the paper label stocks could. For additional strength and protection, lamination or UV coating can be added after printing to seal the surface.
What is the difference between Lamination and UV coating?
Lamination is a thin plastic film that is bonded to the surface of the label. It is readily available in Gloss and Silk, but you can have other options through custom estimates. Because it is an actual film applied to the label, it adds strength, thickness, and protection to the surface. UV coating (sometimes called Liquid Lamination) is an oil-based liquid that coats the entire surface of the sheet and is cured by UV lights. This coating is only available in Gloss and Matte and is slightly less expensive than Lamination. UV coating protects the surface from moisture, wear, and fading, but does not add the same structure as Lamination.
Are there any special file requirements for printing on the Clear Label Stock?
Printing on clear material works best with black ink or very dark colours. Light colours are usually achieved by simply putting less ink onto white paper. But, as the material is clear, the lighter ink coverage just doesn't show up. Similarly, pictures or gradient effects don't have the same impact on clear as they do on opaque stocks and should be avoided. Therefore it is best to stick with solid vector shapes and thicker fonts in black or dark colours. The only way to use light colours on the clear stock would be to print the background of opaque white ink and then print on top of this solid area. This, and printing with only white ink, is only available through a custom quote request and has a minimum order of 1,000. The reason is that white ink requires a more labour intensive process than printing in black or dark colours, or printing on white material.
Are your labels safe to use on photographic prints? And are they acid-free?
Yes, they are safe to use on photographic prints and are acid-free.
I want to create a clear gloss label with white printing that I would put on a bottle, and the bottle will act as a background. Is that possible?
It is not possible for cut sheet labels, but it is for roll labels.
We are not printing the white colour, anything that is white on the design will be transparent on a clear label.
What is the minimum order quantity (MOQ) for Cut Sheet Labels?
MOQ for cut sheet labels is 10.
Which labels are water and heat resistant?
To have a product resistant to water and heat, you will need to use vinyl labels with added coating.
Which labels are the best option for cleaning supply bottles?
The best option would be White Vinyl Label with Permanent Adhesive. They are waterproof.
What stocks are available for Labels?
Stock can be divided into two main categories, paper stock (not waterproof, only for indoor use) and synthetic stock (tearproof, waterproof, suitable for cosmetics and outdoor use when coated).
Paper stock comes as uncoated, matte or gloss. We can add a Gloss UV coating or lamination on the gloss label. That way, the ink will be protected from smudging, and the labels would become fridge and freezer safe. Matte and uncoated labels can't be coated, but the finish allows you to write on them with pens and pencils.
Synthetic labels come as white labels and clear (transparent) labels. Adding a Gloss UV, they will be protected from smudging and can be used outdoors. Lamination would protect the labels from smudging, and they can be used outside or in a moist environment (cosmetics products). The white synthetic label comes with a matte finish, while clear labels come with a matte and gloss finish. White ink can't be printed on the clear label. Whatever area is white on the file, it won't be printed, and it will remain transparent. We can ship you some samples of the available stock if you would like. Just email us which paper stock you are interested in seeing and leave us the shipping address.
What type of coating do you suggest for clear labels that go on candles & bath salts jars?
Gloss lamination or gloss UV.
Lamination is a plastic film that sticks on the label by applying pressure, while the UV is liquid coating fast cured by UV lights. Both are adding additional protection and shine.
For my ingredients listing, I’m finding that I need to go down to a 3 or even 2.5 font size. Is that going to show?
The font size of 2.5 or even 3 is quite small. If possible, I would suggest going with 3.5 - 4. You should also check if there are any legal requirements for your industry in regards to the font size of ingredient lists.
