learn more about
RESOURCES
FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL 704.893.0026
FAQs & UNDERSTANDING LABELS
Labels generally consist of 3 parts: (1) Face Stock (2) Adhesive & (3) Backing Material (coated with release material) ... and what seems like a simple concept: to put labels on a product, can quickly turn into a myriad of choices that leave you confused and unsure.
At Cobblestone Tag & Label we utilize an extensive range of paper-based and synthetic (film) materials to create labels and tags but most importantly, we are interested in what you want to achieve. This enables us to provide industry specific knowledge and guidance on the range of options available to ensure you get the right solution.
HOW DO I CHOOSE?
To start with - we will ask a number of questions. First and foremost - knowing the end use or application of your labels will make the process of choosing much easier. The end use of the label will have an impact on the performance of the face stock, adhesive and liner and must be considered when choosing the right solution for you. The printing method, press type, ink colors chosen, embellishments, finishes and shape of the label then need to be considered. Here are some of the questions you can expect and how it helps to give you the best possible solution: (detailed information is noted below)
1. Where is it going and what do you want to achieve?
2. What is the size of the label? Always give across the web dimension first, then length.
3. What is your label usage & over what period of time?
4. How is it being applied? Hand or machine application?
5. Do you want labels on a roll and what core size, sheeted or fanfolded?
6. What is the roll direction? (See LABEL WIND DIRECTION CHART BELOW)
7. Is the label going through a printer?
8. Do you have a sample of your current label?
9. Will I be able to get a sample to check before ordering?
10. What is your budget or current price for labels?
1. Where is it going and what do you want to achieve?
Details of the end-use and application of the label help establish what label stock and adhesive will best suit. Some stocks are not suitable for certain applications but sometimes there will be a range of alternatives. Application includes the material/substrate you are putting the label on and the temperature of both the product and contents during application and use.
2. What is the size of the label?
Labels are quoted in inches and usually in 1/32 increments with the leading edge first (also referred to as the ‘width’ or ‘across the web’ measurement). This is very important for labels that are machine applied as it determines the way the labels are printed and affects die choices and plate directions. We also need to know if the size is critical or if alternative (Close) sizes are acceptable.
3. What is your label usage & over what period of time?
What is the practical volume of labels to quote on eg. 5,000 / 10,000 / 20,000. For many labels the cost per 1,000 decreases as the volume increases. By quoting on a range you will be able to determine where the quantity breaks become more economical. Sometimes a quote is requested only for a 1 month supply when it would be much more economical to get a 3 month supply quote.
4. How is it being applied?
Is the label being applied by hand or through a labeling machine or applicator? This helps establish the roll direction and backing sheet requirements.
5. Do you want labels on a roll and what core size, sheeted or fanfolded?
Labels can be supplied as singles, sheeted or on rolls. Each option may result in a different price so it is important to clarify this. Generally the higher the number per roll, the more cost effective it is in finishing time. For Example:. A job of 100,000 labels with 1000 rolls of 100 labels will take longer in finishing than 100 rolls of 1000. Our stock core sizes are 1/2", 3/4" and 3". Other sizes can be catered to. The core size and roll quantity is particularly important for machine application or if the labels are going through a printer.
6. What is the roll direction?
Label sizes are quoted with the leading edge first. Roll directions are not based on an industry standard so please use the LABEL WIND DIRECTION CHART to check.
7. Is the label going through a printer?
Labels that go through thermal printers, laser printers or dot matrix printers all have special requirements in terms of face stock, backing and sometimes the need for tractor feeds on the side. The heat of certain printers (especially laser printers) demands special stock or the labels will not work.
8. Do you have a sample of your current labels?
Providing us a continuous strip of your current labels is helpful when determining how we will print the labels and on what press. The sample can show us what print cylinder was used and allow us to replicate the current draw of the label (including the gap) where necessary.
9. Will I be able to get a sample to check before ordering?
Generally No - Press labels require significant amounts of time and expense in set-up (for plates, dies and preparation). Depending on the circumstances we can provide a PROOF for your approval, but please be aware that the colors are representative only and a PMS book should be checked.
10. What is your budget or current price for labels?
We aim to be cost competitive so any information on current pricing (even a rough idea) helps ensure we achieve this. Providing a budget or expectation for new labels also ensures the estimator understands and can take this into consideration when quoting or recommending alternatives.