Paper Types for Labels

Here is some helpful information about the types of paper used to create labels.

Adhesive Labels
While they may be combined with a variety of types of facestock, there are two main types of adhesive label stock: dry gum label stock and pressure sensitive label stock. Below we will discuss both types:

Dry Gum Label Stock
It is most common to use 20 lb. to 24 lb. bond or 50 lb. to 60 lb. offset with dry gum label stock. Glue that is able to be re-moistened is applied to the back of the stock. The glue of the dry gum label stock is activated by moisture, allowing you to apply the label to your chosen surface. Because of the added step of moistening the glue, this type of adhesive is the least popular.

Pressure Sensitive Label Stock
There are three laminated parts to pressure sensitive label stock: the liner, the adhesive, and the facestock. The finished label is produced out of the facestock. These types of labels adhere when pressure is applied to them, hence the name pressure sensitive label stock. You can find several types of pressure sensitive label stock.

Linerless Labels
These are pressure sensitive labels that are constructed without a liner. They are constructed in almost the same way as pressure sensitive labels that do have a liner. You can get more information about common types of stocks used in the information above regarding pressure sensitive labels.

Heat Activated Liners
The main application for heat activated liners is in-mold labeling. The same types of paper and film used for pressure sensitive and non-adhesive labels are used for heat activated labels. What makes these labels special is the adhesive that is applied to the back; it can only be activated with heat. Because heat is needed to mold the container, the material used must be able to withstand that heat.

Non-Adhesive Labels
There are several types of labels that do not have an adhesive applied to the back of the facestock. These types of labels are applied with a process that does not require adhesive, or they are attached to an item with glue as part of the application process. You will find a discussion of some of the film and papers used for non-adhesive labels below.

Liners
Either paper or film can be used for the liner material for pressure sensitive labels. On of the most common paper liners is kraft paper, which comes in a few forms (bleached, unbleached, coated, and uncoated). Some of the common materials used for film liners include polystyrene, polyester, polypropylene, polyolefin, and polyethylene. There are different thicknesses available for both film and paper liners. To help fanfolded and sheet labels lay flat a thicker liner is usually used. It is also common that a stronger liner be used in conjunction with some high speed applicators so that the jobs can run correctly.

There are standard liners used for different label materials. Special liners usually need to be custom ordered. Custom orders usually have a longer delivery date and a higher cost. You will need to get exact costs and delivery date information directly from your label supplier.
 

Other helpful information related to the use and display of labels and the manufacturing business:

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