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Versions & Quantity

How to Measure for Your Labels

To determine the size of the label you need, there are certain considerations to keep in mind:

  • The size of the container you're labeling: The best way to determine the size of your container is to measure its flattest surface area. Don't measure from top to bottom, as many containers have curved edges, which can throw off measurements.
  • How much text you're including: Ingredient listings, directions and warnings will take up space on your label. It's important to know ahead of time how much information your custom labels will feature.
  • The label type that suits your product and container: If you require extra space to include important information or for an elaborate design, consider a front-and-back or wrap-around label.

Once you've determined the label dimensions you need, visit our quote page to select the size that's perfect for your products.

Artwork Specifications

Please note that it makes good sense to check your print labels design (and spelling) before sending them to us - corrections or modifications made after the proofing stage will incur extra charges, as we need to repeat the entire pre-press process to incorporate the new files.

Software Supported (Mac and PC versions)

  • Adobe Photoshop - versions up to and including CS6
  • Adobe Illustrator - versions up to and including CS6

For all customized labels, our strongly preferred format is an Adobe Illustrator EPS file with all fonts converted to outlines, as this is the format we print directly from on our digital presses. Click here for an explanation of the font outlining process.

Note:

If you are creating multiple print label and sticker designs, please send each design (or version) individually in its own file to optimize the pre-press process and avoid manipulation errors.

Media

You may upload your artwork when placing an order online or send us files via email. We can receive email attachments up to about 10 Megabytes, but keep in mind that your outbound email server may have smaller limits. If you're sending many files and/or email proves to be unreliable, you can also upload files to our secure FTP site – please contact us for details.  If you prefer you may also burn a CD-ROM and send it to us.

Full Bleeds and Layout Requirements

A full bleed is when the color “bleeds” off the label. If your label design or background color is intended to cover the entire surface of the label, we will need a 1/16" (0.0625") bleed around each edge of the label. For example, if you have a 2” x 1” label where the color bleeds off the edges, you should size your design to 2.125" x 1.125" as this ensures a 1/16” bleed around the entire label. Click here for a detailed example of bleeds.

It is also wise to leave at least 1/16" (0.0625") of clear space (i.e. no significant design elements or text) inside the die-line to allow for slight shifts during die-cutting.
Click here for a detailed example of clear space layouts.

Other Considerations

Image mode and resolution are extremely important to ensure correct color and clarity. All raster (image-based) files need to have a resolution of 300 dpi. at actual size. Our presses handle CMYK mode only - all RGB images will be converted to CMYK, which can cause extreme shifts in color. If in doubt, please take advantage of our free press proof offer (shipping charges apply), which allows you to see how the finished print labels will look before going into production.

Additional Resources

Die Lines for Special Label Shapes
How Die Cutting Works
Top 10 Label Artwork Mistakes

Our Custom Labels and Sticker Products

Choose Lightning Labels for Your Custom Labels and Sticker Printing Needs

Hassle-free Printed Labels and Stickers In Every Shape, Size, Color

Lightning Labels uses state-of-the-art  printing technology to provide affordable, full-color custom labels and stickers of all shapes and sizes.  From small orders for individuals, to the bulk needs of big businesses, Lightning Labels is equipped to handle and fulfill custom label and product sticker, orders of all types. Best of all, like the name implies, Lightning Labels provides exceptionally quick turnaround for all your printing needs.

Benefits of ordering with us include:

  • Free ground shipping for online orders in US and Canada
  • 48-72 hour turnaround (after proof approval)
  • No set-up fees, no plate fees, and no added fees for unlimited color!
  • Receive a free printed press proof or PDF proof with every label order (shipping charges apply) *
  • 100% satisfaction guaranteed
  • Vibrant and crisp full color
  • Minimums as low as 50

Lightning Labels has been servicing the needs of our digital printing customers for over 12 years.


We are extremely proud of our BBB rating (A+) and guarantee your experience with us will be a positive one.

 

Recent Custom Labels & Stickers News
I would highly recommend Lightning labels to anyone. They were very helpful in assisting me with technical issues when it came to the artwork designs and specifications, especially considering it was my first time going through this process. The labels are fantastic quality, if you are on the fence their sample label pack really helped me decide which kind to go with. They also had good turn around times and the pricing is affordable.
Steven C. - The Woodlands, TX
 
The bottle, and the new label by extension, hit a Fairbanks (Alaska) market this past weekend and my customers absolutely loved the design. It was, in short, a huge hit...
Holly T. Read more testimonials >

Material Descriptions

Materials

BIOSTONE

One of our eco-friendly options that is actually made of stone—no trees are used. This material should not laminated.

CAST GLOSS

This is another material specially designed for the wine industry. It is paper-based with a high-gloss white finish. Same adhesive and liner as Estate #9.

CHROME (SILVER) BOPP

This material has the same water and oil-resistant properties as our White BOPP and Clear BOPP, but has the "mirror-like" look of shiny chrome.

CLASSIC CREST

Best suited for wine labels, this is a white paper stock with a dull matte finish. It is not suitable for lamination and is therefore not waterproof. Same adhesive and liner as Estate #9.

CLEAR BOPP

This is the clear version of the Polypropylene (BOPP) material. It has the same waterproof qualities as the White BOPP. It provides more of a "no label" look and is also suitable for window stickers (where reverse printing of the image allows the label to be applied to the inside of a glass window and be viewed from the outside).

ESTATE #9

This is a great option for wine labels, gourmet foods or applications where a textured finish is desired. Being a paper stock, it's not as water-resistant or durable as BOPP, but its light cream color and textured feel add a touch of the "unusual" to the right product. It features a special adhesive (removable in 100+ degree hot water) and a stronger liner particularly suited to machine application. Not suitable for lamination.

GOLD POLYESTER (METALIZED)

This material will make your labels shine! Suitable for most labeling applications, it has a strong adhesive backing and must be laminated. Choose glossy laminate to make your label designs pop, or matte for a unique, elegant look.

KRAFT (RECYCLED)

This is a recycled 100% post consumer waste material. It is a 55# paper material that is a wonderful option if an “earthy” appearance is desired. The stronger liner is well suited for machine application. Depending upon face, substrate, water temperature and dwell time, label may be removed in hot water. It is not suitable for lamination; therefore, it is not water or oil resistant.

REMOVABLE WHITE BOPP

This material is the same as our standard BOPP, but has a special, "less aggressive" adhesive designed to allow the label to be removed or re-positioned after application. Depending on the surface it will be applied to, customer testing is strongly recommended. We can provide samples for this purpose.

SATIN CLOTH

Quite the unique material! Yes, it is woven satin acetate cloth. Think wine or spirit labels! This material will make your product packaging POP. The stronger liner is well suited for machine application. Depending upon face, substrate, water temperature and dwell time, label may be removed in hot water.

SQUEEZABLE

A white, 3mil film that is better suited for squeezable applications. This material has proven to work well in a variety of applications, so you can be confident it will perform well for you.

VELLUM (RECYCLED)

A great “green” choice, this 60# vellum is 100% recycled with 100% post consumer waste material. Cannot be laminated. Is neither water nor oil-resistant. The stronger liner is well suited for machine application. Depending upon face, substrate, water temperature and dwell time, label may be removed in hot water.

WHITE BOPP

This is our most commonly used material and is suitable for most applications. It's a polypropylene material with a permanent adhesive. It is impervious to water and oils, and is particularly suitable for bath and body products, as well as food containers.

WHITE EARTHFIRST PLA

A more environmentally friendly alternative to White BOPP. The PLA stands for Polylactic Acid (a biopolymer made from corn rather than petrochemicals). Similar look and feel to BOPP and suitable for most applications, but should not be used directly on candle containers.

WHITE FLEXIBLE VINYL

This is our most substantial material. The vinyl is thicker than BOPP, and is most suitable for outdoor applications where greater strength and durability are needed, or where lengthy exposure to the elements is an issue.

WINDOW DECAL (CLEAR/ULTRA-REMOVABLE)

We offer this window decal option as an alternative to static cling. The face stock is clear with excellent clarity. The adhesive is an ultra-removable featuring excellent weatherability and UV resistance. It removes cleanly from a wide variety of substrates without staining or ghosting. Why worry about static clings staying on when you can have removable adhesive there to hold it in place?

CAST GLOSS

This is another material specially designed for the wine industry. It is paper-based with a high-gloss white finish. Same adhesive and liner as Estate #9.

CHROME (SILVER) BOPP

This material has the same water and oil-resistant properties as our White BOPP and Clear BOPP, but has the "mirror-like" look of shiny chrome.

CLASSIC CREST

Best suited for wine labels, this is a white paper stock with a dull matte finish. It is not suitable for lamination and is therefore not waterproof. Same adhesive and liner as Estate #9.

CLEAR BOPP

This is the clear version of the Polypropylene (BOPP) material. It has the same waterproof qualities as the White BOPP. It provides more of a "no label" look and is also suitable for window stickers (where reverse printing of the image allows the label to be applied to the inside of a glass window and be viewed from the outside).

ESTATE #9

This is a great option for wine labels, gourmet foods or applications where a textured finish is desired. Being a paper stock, it's not as water-resistant or durable as BOPP, but its light cream color and textured feel add a touch of the "unusual" to the right product. It features a special adhesive (removable in 100+ degree hot water) and a stronger liner particularly suited to machine application. Not suitable for lamination.

GOLD POLYESTER (METALIZED)

This material will make your labels shine! Suitable for most labeling applications, it has a strong adhesive backing and must be laminated. Choose glossy laminate to make your label designs pop, or matte for a unique, elegant look.

KRAFT (RECYCLED)

This is a recycled 100% post consumer waste material. It is a 55# paper material that is a wonderful option if an “earthy” appearance is desired. The stronger liner is well suited for machine application. Depending upon face, substrate, water temperature and dwell time, label may be removed in hot water. It is not suitable for lamination; therefore, it is not water or oil resistant.

REMOVABLE WHITE BOPP

This material is the same as our standard BOPP, but has a special, "less aggressive" adhesive designed to allow the label to be removed or re-positioned after application. Depending on the surface it will be applied to, customer testing is strongly recommended. We can provide samples for this purpose.

SATIN CLOTH

Quite the unique material! Yes, it is woven satin acetate cloth. Think wine or spirit labels! This material will make your product packaging POP. The stronger liner is well suited for machine application. Depending upon face, substrate, water temperature and dwell time, label may be removed in hot water.

SQUEEZABLE

A white, 3mil film that is better suited for squeezable applications. This material has proven to work well in a variety of applications, so you can be confident it will perform well for you.

VELLUM (RECYCLED)

A great “green” choice, this 60# vellum is 100% recycled with 100% post consumer waste material. Cannot be laminated. Is neither water nor oil-resistant. The stronger liner is well suited for machine application. Depending upon face, substrate, water temperature and dwell time, label may be removed in hot water.

WHITE BOPP

This is our most commonly used material and is suitable for most applications. It's a polypropylene material with a permanent adhesive. It is impervious to water and oils, and is particularly suitable for bath and body products, as well as food containers.

WHITE EARTHFIRST PLA

A more environmentally friendly alternative to White BOPP. The PLA stands for Polylactic Acid (a biopolymer made from corn rather than petrochemicals). Similar look and feel to BOPP and suitable for most applications, but should not be used directly on candle containers.

WHITE FLEXIBLE VINYL

This is our most substantial material. The vinyl is thicker than BOPP, and is most suitable for outdoor applications where greater strength and durability are needed, or where lengthy exposure to the elements is an issue.

WINDOW DECAL (CLEAR/ULTRA-REMOVABLE)

We offer this window decal option as an alternative to static cling. The face stock is clear with excellent clarity. The adhesive is an ultra-removable featuring excellent weatherability and UV resistance. It removes cleanly from a wide variety of substrates without staining or ghosting. Why worry about static clings staying on when you can have removable adhesive there to hold it in place?

Artwork Specifications

Laminates

High Gloss

High gloss is our most popular laminate. It is the least expensive option and provides protection for the label and a high gloss shiny finish.

Matte

The Matte Laminate provides your label with a dull, non-glossy finish. Some customers consider this achieves a more "natural" look.

Thermal Transfer

This is a gloss laminate that is designed to work with most over-printing thermal transfer printers. We do recommend you get samples first to test through your own printer before placing an order with this laminate.

UV Outdoor Gloss

As the name implies this is best used for labels that will be used outdoors. It has a high gloss finish with excellent UV resistance. It is best paired with our vinyl material for the most durable outdoor label.

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