The Ultimate Guide to Custom Labels for Your Business

Choose the Right Online Label Printer (Because Not All Are Created Equal)

Finding the perfect partner for your labels is like picking the right mechanic, get one you trust, and things run smoother. Look for a printer that:

• Offers flexible order quantities so you don’t have to buy more than you need.

• Lets you upload a finished design or create one from scratch with easy-to-use online tools.

• Has a wide range of materials, finishes, and shapes - including the option for custom die cuts.

• Provides fast, reliable turnaround times.

• Displays accurate pricing, no surprise fees when you’re checking out.

Label Material Matters

Not all labels are built for the same job. Choosing the right label material and finish keeps your design looking sharp through shipping, shelving, and whatever your customer throws at it.

Paper vs. Waterproof

Paper labels are a solid choice for dry, indoor products like spice jars, product boxes, or anything that’s staying on a shelf. They’re cost-effective and offer a clean, professional look—but don’t expect them to survive a splash.

Waterproof labels are the way to go if your product is hitting the fridge, shower, or anywhere damp. Often made from BOPP material (Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene), they’re built to last through condensation, spills, and everyday handling. If you’re labeling hot sauce, shampoo, or anything that sweats—it’s worth the upgrade.

Matte vs. Gloss

Matte labels have a soft, glare-free finish that gives off a subtle, natural vibe. They’re easy on the eyes and work well for brands going for a modern, minimalist, or organic feel. And if you need to write on your labels, matte is your friend. Most matte finishes are pen-receptive!

Glossy labels, on the other hand, are all about that shine. They make colors look more vibrant and designs more eye-catching. If your branding includes bold colors, high-contrast graphics, or photography, gloss gives it that extra pop on the shelf.

Size It Right the First Time

Big enough to fit your info, small enough to fit your packaging—finding the right label size is all about balance. Here’s how to get it just right:

• Measure your container: Grab a ruler (or print a ruler for something you can easily wrap around your container) and get the width and height of the surface where the label will go. No guessing.

• Think about shape: Rectangle, circle, oval, custom die cut—it’s not just about looks. Some shapes fit curved or narrow surfaces better than others. Print out some test shapes and test them out to help you find the best shape and size combo.

• Leave space for handling: A label that wraps too close to an edge might peel or snag. Give it a little breathing room so it stays stuck.

• Do a test run: Print a rough version on paper, cut it out, and stick it on your container. It’s the easiest way to see if you’ve got a winner before you order.

Need help figuring out which size works for your jars, bottles, or boxes? Our Label Size Guide has all the cheat codes.

Design Labels That Look as Good as Your Product Tastes (or Smells)

A great label doesn’t just catch eyes, it makes them linger. Here’s how to design one that stops shoppers in their tracks:

• Pick fonts that are easy on the eyes: Choosing the best fonts for labels can be tricky. Go for fonts that are both bold and readable. Tiny text might look cute on your screen, but in real life it turns into a squint-fest. And if the font’s too frilly or weird? Hard pass.

• Stick to your brand’s vibe: Rustic, modern, playful, or fancy, your label should look like it belongs to your brand, not your competitor’s.

• Boost contrast where it counts: High-contrast colors make your info jump off the shelf, not fade into the background.

• Give your design some breathing room: Net weight, ingredients, or directions need space, don’t cram them like a rush-hour subway.

Online Ordering Tips to Save You Time (and Money)

When you’re ready to order labels online, a few smart moves can stretch your budget and make the process way smoother:

Bundle Designs, Save Big

If you’ve got multiple designs that use the same size, shape, and material, you might qualify for combo pricing. Need 250 each of two label designs? Some printers (like us!) will price it like you ordered 500 of the same thing. It’s a sneaky-good way to get variety without paying extra. Just make sure your artwork files are clearly labeled to avoid mix-ups in production.

Join Rewards or Email Programs

Before you check out, take a peek at any pop-ups, banners, or footers for email or SMS signups. A lot of online printers offer welcome discounts, reward points, or early access to sales when you join. It’s a low-effort, high-reward move—especially if you’ll be ordering again.

Double-Check Your Proofs

Instant online proofs are your best friend. They let you preview exactly how your label will print—size, text placement, image quality, and all. Zoom in, read every word, and check for anything weird. A quick proof review now saves you from a major facepalm later.

Know Your Reorder Process

Some printers make reordering as easy as a few clicks—others, not so much. Look for one that stores your past orders, artwork, and specs so you don’t have to upload files or redo your design every time. It’s a game-changer when you’re restocking quickly or need to reorder during a busy season.