Because of their versatility, pressure-sensitive labels are one of the most popular labeling options on the market. They can be used in a variety of applications, including household goods, food and beverage containers, automotive products, and jar and bottle labeling.
Pressure-sensitive labels are self-adhesive — meaning they do not require water, solvents, or heat to activate — and can be printed on a broad range of stock. Additionally, this type of label is compatible with a wide variety of printing technologies.
The range of available material and adhesive options adds to the appeal of these labels. They offer a modern appearance and are compatible with most printing technologies, allowing for flexibility in customization and branding.
Selecting the right material for your custom pressure-sensitive labels matters for performance, appearance, and cost-effectiveness. Let’s take a closer look.
Understand Your Application Requirements
Your label requirements will depend on your application, and when it comes to pressure-sensitive labels, there are a lot of potential applications and plenty of factors to consider in your material decision:
Product Type and Industry
- Food and beverage: Pressure-sensitive labels are a common choice for food and beverage products. They adhere well to various materials, including glass, plastic, and metal, and can withstand moisture and temperature fluctuations.
- Pharmaceutical: Pressure-sensitive labels are often used in prescription labeling, ensuring accurate medication administration to ensure patient safety. These labels also serve a crucial role in medical device labeling, providing essential information for proper use and regulatory compliance.
- Industrial: Pressure-sensitive labels serve numerous purposes in industrial settings. Manufacturers use them for labeling machinery, tools, and components, facilitating efficient inventory management and asset tracking. They also play a role in hazard and safety labeling, providing warnings and instructions in industrial environments.
Project Purpose
Because of their broad application potential, custom pressure-sensitive labels can be used for a wide array of purposes, from showcasing a company’s branding and providing product instructions to detailing compliance information and product durability.
Since they don’t require heat or solvents during application, manufacturers are able to apply the labels either manually or in an automated process. This flexibility makes pressure-sensitive labels suitable for both small- and large-scale operations.
Environmental and Usage Conditions
Pressure-sensitive labels can withstand harsh industrial conditions, including exposure to chemicals, moisture, and high temperatures, maintaining readability and adhesive strength even in the most challenging environments. Manufacturers can even design custom pressure-sensitive labels to resist fading in direct sunlight, so they maintain label functionality and aesthetic appeal.
Review Material Options for Pressure-Sensitive Labels
Manufacturers create custom pressure-sensitive labels from various materials, including paper, film, foil, and synthetics. Unlike shrink sleeve labels, which risk graphic distortion due to their application method, pressure-sensitive labels offer reliable performance across various products. Each material presents unique characteristics, such as durability, moisture resistance, and flexibility. Finishing options include glossy, matte, and specialty coatings.
- Paper
- Versatile, cost-effective, and customizable
- Ideal for dry, indoor environments and short-term use
- Polymer films
- Includes polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), and polyester (PET)
- Durable, moisture-resistant, chemical-resistant, flexible, and tear-resistant
- Suitable for products exposed to harsh conditions or requiring a premium look
- Vinyl
- Highly durable, flexible, and UV-resistant
- Best for outdoor applications
Consider the Label Construction Components
Pressure-sensitive label manufacturers can customize an adhesive formula to best suit the label’s intended purpose. Factors to be considered include product surface texture and storage temperatures. It’s important to work with experienced label manufacturers to test materials and adhesives in your specific application environment. The primary components of pressure-sensitive labels are:
- Facestock: The main material that displays the images and text
- Adhesive: Choose between permanent, removable, or repositionable adhesives based on application needs and environmental factors
- Liner: Paper or film liners that protect the adhesive until the label is ready for use, and are chosen for their compatibility with the application
- Topcoat/finish: Gloss, semi-gloss, or matte finishes for protection and desired look and feel
Consult with Pressure-Sensitive Label Experts
At Craftsman, we offer a wide array of labels on various materials, catering to diverse customer needs. From premium paper to durable polypropylene, our product range ensures a tailored solution for every requirement. With finishes ranging from classic matte to sleek gloss, each label is crafted to perfection, aligning seamlessly with your unique vision. Contact our team today to get started.
