Self-Adhesive Labels
These are stickers with a special backing that sticks to surfaces. I love how these labels stick without a fuss and peel off cleanly. No messy glue, just a quick solution for everyday tasks.Composition
These self-adhesives are made up of three main layers: the face material, the adhesive, and the backing paper.- The face material is the top layer, where design, logos, or information are printed.
- The adhesive is what allows the label to stick firmly. Some are designed for easy removal, while others stick permanently.
- The backing paper protects the adhesive until the label is ready for use. It can be glassine, kraft paper, or even film. The choice depends on how you are going to apply the label.
#1. PVC Self-Adhesive Labels
They are made from polyvinyl chloride and are resistant to water, chemicals, and wear. You can use them on curved or uneven surfaces.
Printing Techniques for PVC Self-Adhesive Labels
- Screen Printing: This is where ink is pushed through a fine mesh screen onto the label surface to create bold designs. There's something about the boldness of screen-printed labels. You can feel the ink and see the richness of the color.
- Digital Printing: Here, specialized printers transfer the design directly onto the label. This technique is fast and cost-effective, especially for small batches.
- Flexographic Printing: Think of this as the modern version of an ancient printing press. The beauty of flexographic printing is its efficiency. The relief plates can handle long runs without compromising on quality.
Finishing Techniques for PVC Self-Adhesive Labels
- Glossy Lamination: It gives your labels that shiny look. That's not all. It also protects the label from scratches and moisture.
- Matte Lamination: For a softer, non-reflective appearance, matte should be your top choice.
- Die-Cutting: A method that allows you to turn your plain labels into custom shapes.
- Foil Stamping: It uses a metallic foil for a luxurious finish.
#2. Aluminum Foil Self-Adhesive Labels
What I love about aluminum foil stickers is how they effortlessly elevate a product's look. They make you think, ‘This is something worth picking up, even before reading the label.’
Printing Techniques for Aluminum Foil Stickers
- Flexographic Printing: This is the best method if you want high-quality prints on a large scale.
- Thermal Transfer Printing: In this method, a heated ribbon is pressed against the label to transfer ink onto the aluminum foil. This method ensures prints won't fade.
- UV Printing: Here, an ultraviolet light cures the ink as it is printed, creating sharp designs on aluminum foil labels.
Finishing Techniques for Aluminum Foil Stickers
- Embossing: This technique gives you a textured design. It works by raising specific parts of the label.
- Lamination: A clear layer is applied to protect the surface from scratches and fading.
- Die Cutting: This method shapes the stickers into custom designs.
- Spot Varnish: Many brands use this method to draw attention to logos and other key elements.
#3. Coated Paper Self-Adhesive Labels
Coated paper labels are a budget-friendly option for many applications. This is great. But I wouldn't recommend them for anything stored in high-moisture environments. They will lose their charm.
Printing Techniques for Coated Paper
- Offset Printing: This is a great one for bulk coated paper sticker orders. It is even better if you are considering a cheaper option.
- Flexographic Printing: You can also go for a high-speed production technique that produces consistent results. This technique works well if your labels either have simple designs or repetitive patterns.
- Digital Printing: Traditional printing methods would require plates to work. This doesn't. So less setup time and low costs. It is one you'll definitely love if you have limited-edition labels.
Finishing Techniques for Coated Paper
- Lamination: Adds a protective layer to safeguard it from smudges, scratches, and minor wear.
- Hot Foil Stamping: Heat and pressure are used to add a metallic effect to the label.
- Embossing: Adds a textured effect to raise the label's appeal.
#4. Special Paper Stickers
These are stickers made using specialty paper. You get a specific design that solves unique functional needs.
Printing Techniques for Special Paper Stickers
- Offset Printing
- Digital Printing
- Screen Printing
- Flexographic Printing
- Offers precise adjustments to designs.
- Supports full-color printing.
- Is a cost-effective option for small batches.
Finishing Techniques for Special Paper Stickers
- Embossing and Debossing
- Foil Stamping
- UV Coating
- Lamination
#5. Laser Stickers
Have you seen those stickers that reflect light in a colorful pattern? Some of them are laser self-adhesive labels. Mostly those whose color depends on the angle of light.
Printing Techniques for Laser Stickers
- Laser Engraving: Laser engraving adds a permanent, etched design onto the surface of the sticker.
- Spot Color Printing: This is a method that uses pre-mixed inks to achieve specific colors. It is another option you use if you want specific color standards for your stickers.
Finishing Techniques for Laser Stickers
- Frosting: It gives the label a matte or frosted effect. The advantage is the reduced glare.
- Die-Cutting: This cuts your stickers into custom shapes.
- Hot Stamping: It's also called silver stamping. This method leaves the surface of your label with a metallic luster.
#6. Thermal Self-Adhesive Labels
Thermal labels belong to a special category of stickers with a heat-sensitive layer. This is an advantage during printing as they won't need ink or toner. But don't expect them to hold up in extreme conditions.
Printing Techniques for Thermal Self-Adhesive Labels
- Direct Thermal Printing: Heat is applied directly to the coated surface of the label to produce an image. This method is cost-effective and works best for shipping labels or receipts.
- Thermal Transfer Printing: A heated ribbon transfers ink onto the surface to create clear prints. It is ideal for product labels, barcode stickers, and tags that need to withstand harsh conditions.
Finishing Techniques for Thermal Self-Adhesive Labels
- Lamination
- Die-Cutting
- Hot Foil Stamping
- Embossing
- Perforation: It’s a clever trick, especially when you want to make labels easy to tear.
#7. Kraft Paper Self-Adhesive Labels
I admit, these are not the most popular choice, but for those of you who need a more natural and rustic look, they should be your first pick.
And if your business wants something that the over 70% of consumers who prefer sustainable choices will love, then kraft paper stickers it is.
The only disadvantage is their low tolerance to moisture. Most of them can only withstand moderate exposure to such conditions. So, you must know where not to use them.
Printing Techniques for Kraft Paper Stickers
- Gravure Printing: The technique is all about engraving the design onto a cylinder. It allows for detailed printing, even with metallic or special inks.
- Pad Printing: Pad printing uses a silicone pad to transfer ink onto the label's surface. It's the method most people use to print irregular-shaped labels.
Finishing Techniques for Kraft Paper Stickers
- Varnishing: Adds a matte or glossy finish to the label.
- Spot UV Coating: A fantastic way to highlight key design elements. I love how it brings attention to logos or taglines.
- Textured Coating: You can also add a textured coating to give your label a unique feel.
#8. Easy-to-Tear Self Adhesive Labels
Who wants to take more than three minutes to tear a label? Not me, and I guess you, too. That's why this type of sticker is made using thin materials. So the next time you have a quick labeling task, you know what to go for.
Printing Techniques for Easy-to-Tear Labels
- Flexographic Printing
- Thermal Transfer Printing
- UV Printing
Finishing Techniques for Easy-to-Tear Labels
- Lamination
- Die-Cutting
- Foil Stamping
- Embossing
#9. Electrostatic Stickers
Did you think all stickers need glue to adhere to surfaces? Well, electrostatic ones don't. They stick to surfaces using static electricity.
What's also nice is how versatile they are. It doesn't matter whether you want to use them on glass, metal, or even some fabrics. They will work. That's not even the best part. These stickers are reusable. It makes sense since you don't have to worry about them losing their grip.
Printing Techniques for Electrostatic Stickers
- Offset Printing
- Digital Printing
- Screen Printing
Finishing Techniques for Electrostatic Stickers
- Embossing
- Lamination
- Die-Cutting
- Matte Coating
- Glossy Coating
#10. Brushed Gold or Silver Self-Adhesive Labels
Lastly, brushed stickers are one of a kind. Their metallic finishes add a luxurious look to products, so you are likely to find them on high-end packaging.
Printing Techniques for Brushed Gold or Silver Labels
- Digital Printing
- Screen Printing
- Foil Stamping
- Offset Printing
Finishing Techniques for Brushed Gold or Silver Labels
- Lamination
- Embossing
- UV Coating
- Die-Cutting
