Materials & Lamination
Our labels are available in multiple materials and finishes designed for product packaging and indoor use.
- Materials: White BOPP (Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene), Clear BOPP, Hologram (BOPP), Glossy Paper, Matte Recycled Paper, Kraft Paper
- Lamination options: Glossy or matte laminate (varies by material)
- Durability: Laminated Labels are water resistant and resist everyday scuffs and abrasion. Paper Labels are not water resistant and are designed for dry, indoor use only.
- Adhesive: Permanent acrylic adhesive across all label materials
- See all material options and specs below.
Backing & Format Notes
All labels are finished on rolls for efficient application.
- Paper backing: Best for hand application and short runs
- PET backing: Available on select film labels; optimized for machine and high-speed application
- Clear labels: Use a glassine liner to maintain transparency
Sizes & Minimums
Minimum label size:
- 0.5" × 0.5" for most paper and film labels
- 2" × 2" minimum when using PET backing
Maximum size: 11" × 14"
Minimum order: 125 labels
Production & Turnaround
- Standard turnaround: 2–5 business days after proof approval for most materials
- Rush Printing: Need it fast? Upgrade to Rush Printing and we will print your order within 1 business day after proof approval. Learn more about Rush Printing
- Shipping speed: Selected separately at checkout
Custom labels are made for product packaging and branding. With multiple materials, finishes, and backing options, you can choose the right label for your product, environment, and application method, whether applied by hand or by machine.
Ideal For
- Product packaging and labeling
- Bottles, jars, boxes, and containers
- Food, beverage, cosmetics, and wellness products
- Retail and ecommerce packaging
- Compliance, ingredients, instructions, and barcodes
- High-volume labeling workflows
Choosing the Right Label Type
- Glossy Labels: Shiny, water-resistant labels that make colors pop. Best for food, beverage, and cosmetic packaging. Available with paper or PET backing.
- Matte Labels: Non-glare, water-resistant labels that improve readability. Ideal for clean, text-heavy designs. Available with paper or PET backing.
- Clear Labels: Transparent labels that create a clean, no label look.
- Matte Recycled Paper Labels: Writable, tearable paper labels made from recycled material. Designed for dry, indoor use.
- Kraft Paper Labels: Rustic, writable paper labels with a natural brown look. Best for handmade and artisan goods.
- Holographic Labels: Light-reactive labels that add shimmer and visual impact to packaging.
Most print issues come from artwork setup. Getting these details right helps ensure clean cuts, accurate color, and smooth production.
Need help or not sure your file is ready? Check out our Artwork Setup Guidelines.
Artwork Essentials
- Resolution: 300 DPI at final size
- Color Mode: CMYK (convert Pantone colors to CMYK)
- Preferred Files: Vector PDF or AI
- Accepted Formats: PDF, AI, PSD, JPG, PNG, TIFF, EPS
Design Safety Tips
- Keep text and important elements at least 1/16" inside the cutline
- Add 1/8" bleed for edge-to-edge color
- Wrap labels: Add 0.25" overlap for cylindrical containers (bottles, jars, tubes)
- Outline fonts and embed images
Material-specific notes
Some materials and formats have unique artwork setup requirements. For detailed guidance, review the appropriate setup guide below:
Proofing Process
- Every file is reviewed by our in-house Art Team before printing to help ensure it’s production-ready.
- You’ll receive a free digital proof to review and approve before printing begins. See what’s included in your proof.
Frequently Asked Questions
- 1 inch (about the size of a quarter): Small containers or subtle branding
- 2 inches (about the size of an Oreo): Jars, bottles, and everyday product packaging
- 2 × 3.5 inch (business card size): Front or back labels for larger packaging
What are Custom Labels?
Custom labels are made-to-order and printed with your artwork on rolls for product packaging and branding. They’re available in a range of materials and laminates, with backing options that vary by product and support hand or machine application.
Can you write on Custom Labels?
Paper labels and matte finishes can be written on with a pen or permanent marker. Glossy labels aren’t designed for writing. For best results, choose Matte Labels, Matte Recycled Paper Labels, or Kraft Paper Labels.
What is the difference between PET backing and paper backing?
The difference is how the labels are applied. PET backing is a durable plastic liner designed for machine applied labels and consistent high speed dispensing, while paper backing is a flexible liner that’s easier to peel and better suited for hand application. PET backing is recommended for automated labeling and labels 2 inches or larger.
What’s the difference between Custom Labels and Custom Stickers?
Labels are designed for product packaging, while stickers are designed for promotions and broader use. Labels are finished on rolls and work best for indoor applications like bottles, jars, and boxes, with options for hand or machine application.
Stickers are available in multiple formats and specialty materials, making them well suited for promotions, merchandise, and applications that may require outdoor durability.
What size should my label be?
StickerGiant offers custom label sizes from 0.5" × 0.5" to 11" × 14", so the best size depends on your product and where the label will be applied.
Common size references:
If you’re unsure, cut a piece of paper to size and place it on your product where the label will be applied. You’ll always receive a proof to confirm sizing before printing.
Need help deciding, check out our "What Size Should My Sticker or Label Be" guide.
Are Custom Labels water resistant?
It depends on the label material.
Laminated labels—including Matte Labels, Glossy Labels, Clear Labels, and Holographic Labels—are water resistant and resist oil and everyday surface wear. They perform well with brief moisture exposure but are not designed for long-term submersion or prolonged outdoor use.
Paper labels, such as Matte Recycled Paper Labels and Kraft Paper Labels, are not water resistant and are intended for dry, indoor use. Exposure to moisture can affect the paper and finish.
Need more detail? Read our full explanation of water resistant vs waterproof.
Are Custom Labels dishwasher safe?
No. Custom Labels are not dishwasher safe, regardless of material. Repeated dishwasher cycles can affect laminated labels over time and can damage paper labels more quickly. For best results, we recommend hand washing and dry, indoor use for paper-based labels.
Can I get my labels fast?
Yes. Most orders print in 2–5 business days after proof approval. If you need your labels sooner, Rush Printing is available on most products and prints within 1 business day after proof approval.
Rush Printing affects production time only. Shipping speed is selected separately at checkout, and availability depends on production capacity.
What does “Next Day Air” shipping mean?
Next Day Air speeds up shipping time only, not production time. Your order must finish printing before it ships. Once shipped, Next Day Air delivers your package the next business day.
What does “Next Day Air” shipping mean?
Next Day Air speeds up shipping time, not production time. That means your custom order will still take 2–5 business days to print after proof approval. Once it ships, it should arrive the next business day via UPS or FedEx. Be sure to factor in both production and shipping time when planning your delivery date.
How do I check my order status?
Visit our Order Status page and enter your order or item number to see updates from proofing through shipping. We’ll reach out if any action is needed from you.