How to choose the right label

Guru Labels – How to Choose the Right Label for Your Needs

When taking a closer look at your label requirements there are a range of considerations you should keep in mind when creating the perfect product labels.

Product labels deliver opportunities to show case your product and stand out from the crowd. They deliver important information and drive brand recognition about you and your product. They also carry other product critical information such as barcodes, nutritional panels and company contact details that customers will digest in considering your product over a competitors.

Getting your product label printed correctly on the right stock and adhesive is the name of the game. Anyone who has toiled over creating what they believe is the perfect piece of artwork wants nothing less than the finished labels to do it justice. Great artwork combined with a quality printed label underpins consumer confidence and products sold.

Below is a list of questions and scenarios you should consider when looking to create your product labels. Always remember if you feel a little out of your depth thats ok, we have a team of professionals who are only too happy to weigh in on stock choices or design concerns if you need a helping hand.

If you’re labeling jars, boxes, bottles, or pretty much anything else, this guide helps you pick the right label, fast.

1. Consider the Surface

What are you sticking your label to?

Flat surface or high-energy surfaces (glass, cardboard, plastic)

→ Most label types will work. Go to question 2.

Textured or low-energy surface

Request a sample pack to test adhesion.

Curved or flexible packaging

→ Use synthetic labels for flexibility. Go to question 2.

2. What Environment Will It Be In?

Fridge / cold / wet → Use synthetic labels (resist moisture & condensation).

Indoor products → Go with paper, synthetic, clear, or metallic roll labels.

Outdoor products → Use white vinyl, clear vinyl, or holographic vinyl.

3. Will Your Labels Be Exposed to Rubbing or Spills?

If no

If yes

→ Consider lamination to protect your label in transit or use.

Ideal for cosmetics, food jars, and anything that might leak or rub.

Get in touch with one of our Label Guru’s for advice.

4. What Look Are You Going For?

Match your label’s appearance and shape to your brand and product:

Finish Style:

  • Earthy/vintage → Matt paper.
  • Glossy/premium → Gloss paper or synthetic + optional gloss varnish.
  • Stand-out design → Metallic or Clear labels with white under print for bold effect.

Label Shape:

  • Rectangles → Best for boxes, bottles, barcodes & info.
  • Circles → Perfect for lids, candles, and minimalist logos.
  • Ovals → Elegant for wine bottles, boutique items, floral.
  • Custom Shapes → We can cut any shape – select Custom Shapes.

5. Eco-Friendly Options

Want a greener choice? Go with matt or gloss paper – compostable and better for the planet.

6. When Do You Need Them?

Our standard lead time is 7 working days – but place your order early to be safe

7. Need Custom Sizes, Shapes, or Adhesives?

We can do it all – just reach out for a custom quote.