Label design is an integral part of marketing and brand promotion. All oversized and small businesses need label designs, so crafting custom packaging labels is an excellent way to express your brand identity.
Moreover, it is crucial to communicate essential information to customers and enhance the appeal of your deliveries, in which labels become an integral part of the business.
Did you know that seven in ten customers say packaging design can influence their purchasing decisions? A good packaging label can significantly differentiate your products from the competition. We will discuss creating your packaging labels, from designing eye-catching styles to proofing and printing.
Types of Packaging Labels
- Brand/Product Labels: This label highlights the brand name, logo, and product specifications to enhance brand image and awareness.
- Ingredient and Nutritional Tags: These labels are the traditional product details such as ingredients, nutritional information, and potential allergens or dietary considerations.
- Barcodes: Barcodes assist with product identification, inventory management, and pricing at the point of sale.
- Handling/Storage Markers: Provide instructions for proper handling, storage conditions, and shelf life.
- Safety Markers: Communicate safety precautions, hazard warnings, or usage instructions for potentially risky products.
Designing Your Packaging Labels
1. Research Your Target Audience and Competitors
Begin by researching your target audience. While you may already have a general idea of their preferences, take the time to identify current trends and specific likes. You could even conduct focus groups or online surveys to gather insights on what they find helpful and visually appealing.
Next, analyze your competitors. Examine their packaging labels—what do they look like, and what information do they include? Determine how you can create custom labels that outshine theirs. Solid research will help you develop standout labels that resonate with your audience.
2. Keep It On Brand
Brand consistency is crucial. Your packaging labels should align with your overall brand identity, including your logo, color scheme, fonts, and tone of voice. Your audience should be able to recognize your label instantly and associate it with your brand.
3. Choose the Shape
Labels come in various shapes and sizes, so select one that complements your product and packaging while reflecting your company’s image. Standard shapes include rectangle, square, round, and oval. However, don’t hesitate to opt for custom shapes! Unique, cut-to-size labels can inject fun and creativity into your branding.
4. Use an Online Design Tool for Professional Results
Utilize online design tools like Adobe Illustrator or Microsoft Publisher to create professional-looking labels. These tools offer pre-made templates, fonts, images, and graphics, making it easy for non-designers to create stunning labels. Ensure your designs are clear and easily read at any size, and consider scalability for various label formats.
Proof Your Labels Before Printing
After all your hard work, the last thing you want is to discover an error after printing a large batch. The design review process is vital.
Using an online proofing tool like Filestage can streamline this process. Filestage is a review and approval platform utilized by global companies, making it easy to share, discuss, and review your packaging label designs with colleagues and stakeholders.
Benefits of Using Filestage for Label Reviews:
- Organize project workflows to manage all packaging label assets and stakeholders in one place.
- Receive fast and accurate feedback with point-and-click comments and visual annotations.
- Zoom in and rotate your designs for detailed feedback
- Keep versions organized to track design evolution.
- Compare versions side-by-side to ensure all feedback is addressed.
- Set due dates to keep your project on track.
- Monitor approvals and change requests easily from your dashboard.
Once you’ve implemented the feedback from the first round, you can upload a new version of your label design for final approval. This tool is especially beneficial for companies in regulated industries, facilitating the creation of accurate and compliant labels.
Printing Your Packaging Labels
You have two main options when printing your labels: professional printing services or DIY printing. Your choice will depend on the quantity of labels needed, the shape of the labels, and whether you prefer roll labels or sheets.
Print Packaging Labels Yourself
For small quantities or tight budgets, you can print labels yourself. You’ll need a reliable printer and compatible label or sticker paper to do this. Always perform test prints before committing to larger batches.
If you print at home, rectangular or square labels are generally easier to align and cut using a paper trimmer or scissors. Custom shapes are more challenging to cut precisely and may require professional printing for a polished finish.
Use Professional Printing Services
For a polished, professional look, consider partnering with a printing company. They have the expertise and resources to produce high-quality custom labels in large quantities, ensuring vibrant colors, sharp details, and custom sizes.
Typically, professional printers deliver your labels in roll form, which is especially useful for efficiently labeling large quantities of products.
Materials and Finishes
Choosing the suitable materials and finishes for your packaging labels significantly impacts their appearance and durability. Here are some popular options:
- Paper: Versatile and cost-effective, available in finishes like matte or glossy, ideal for indoor use.
- Waterproof Vinyl: Durable and water-resistant, perfect for products exposed to moisture.
- Clear Labels: Provide a sleek, no-label look while allowing the product packaging to show through.
- Kraft Paper: Offers a rustic feel and is often used for organic or eco-friendly products, with the bonus of recyclability.
- Finishes: Custom finishes can elevate the appearance of your packaging. Consider options like glass, mirror-gloss, or matte finishes.
If you’re interested in learning more about our label services and would like us to provide you with a FREE quote, trust the experts at M&R Label to help you!
Call Us at (708) 534-6621 or Request a Quote!
