What Are Labels

Simply put, labels are an easy way to show the contents of a package or to identify an object.

All you need to do is affix it to a package or item and you can clearly tell what it is. Labels are usually identified by the type of material they are printed on (called stock) and the adhesive that is used to affix them. Labels made using a paper stock are the most common, and are often referred to as stickers. There are a variety of different ways that labels can be used, from name badges to mailing addresses.

Types of Label Stock

Litho – This stock is one of the most common used for labels.
Latex – While this type of label uses litho stock, some latex is added to give the label greater flexibility. This enables it to easily form around objects that are curved.
Plastic – There are a variety of plastic materials that are used, including vinyl, acetate, and Mylar. Using plastics allows the labels to be more transparent, while at the same time makes them more flexible, and stronger so that they can resist tearing. Normal ink will usually not work well with plastic labels, so they will require special printing processes such as ultra-violet curing. One common example of vinyl labels is the bumper sticker, which is usually produced with a very strong adhesive and Lightfast Inks.
Foil – Looks shiny like a metal foil.
Thermal – This type of label stock changes color when heated. The printed images, such as letters, can be affixed onto the label using a heating element in the shape of the images. These types of labels are easily produced on a job site. One of the downsides of thermal labels is that other heat sources can make the printed image illegible. It is also common that the images fade over time.

As you can see there are several types of stock, all of which have different requirements as to the type of ink that will work well with them. Label stock can be corona treated, or “zapped” to help inks to adhere to the stock.

Types of Label Adhesive

Permanent – You will usually be unable to remove these labels without either using solvents or destroying the label. There are variances in both adhesion strength and speed. There are some labels that can be moved for up to several hours after they are affixed, while others are permanently adhered instantly. This is the least expensive type of adhesive.
Removable – With removable adhesive a label can be removed without being damaged, although it will stay affixed under most normal circumstances. The label will usually not leave any adhesive on the surface of an item, and the adhesive is usually strong enough to be re-affixed to a new surface.
Semi-Permanent – This type of adhesive is also known as repositionable adhesive. While this type of adhesive will eventually be permanent, it gives the user between 48 and 72 hours to move the label in case of error in placement.
Freezer Permanent – These types of labels stay affixed under certain temperature conditions. This is especially helpful for products that will be stored in a freezer for an extended period of time.

Color of Labels

The label printing industry makes use of the Pantone Matching System (PMS) for colors, and stock and ink are usually available in any of these color choices. You can also order specialty inks such as metallic or magnetic ink. Ink can be made to be opaque, although it is usually transparent.

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

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Types of labels

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General information about labels

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