Distinguishing your clothing from other brands is as simple as adding clothing labels. Not only can you share your brand’s identity, but you can provide information about the fabric, care, and size. Understanding the process of buying clothing labels will help you make smart decisions for your brand and your bottom line.
Clothing Label Material
Clothing labels are manufactured out of several materials. The most common clothing and size labels are either woven or printed on fabric. Manufacturers use durable polyester threads for woven labels, while the printed options often have poly satin fabrics, heat seal polyester, or other materials.
Designers who make outdoor gear and uniforms often choose PVC labels made of soft rubber. These labels are durable, making them good choices for clothing that needs to stand up to the elements and repetitive wear. You can also choose a tear-away paper label.
Sizes and Fonts
You can separate your brand from others by choosing a label that stands out. Customized labels come in all sizes. When you design your clothing labels, use the fonts that represent your brand. Make sure they fit the label so your loyal customers can quickly recognize your clothing styles.
Label Colors
Customized clothing labels come in a variety of colors, too. You can choose from earth tones which look nice with off-white, soft and shiny black, bright neons, and eye-catching metallics. You can match your labels to your clothing fabrics, or choose colors that stand out. When you design your labels, consider how the threads stand out from the fabric, as high-contrast colors work better on smaller items. For example, if you have a black background, white or another light color will stand out better than a dark color like purple or blue.
Folds
Unless you want your label to have raw edges when you apply it to your clothing, you’ll need to choose how you would like it folded. You have a handful of options:
- Center Fold
- Cut to Shape with a Die
- Ends Fold
- Manhattan Fold
- Mitre Fold
- Straight Cut
Sewing Allowances
Your labels will need a sewing allowance, otherwise information on the label will be hidden after folding and sewing. Label manufacturers will add your preferred sewing allowance. Most designers request either ⅛” or ¼” for their seamstresses. Label manufacturers can place the sewing allowance anywhere on the label. For example, soft rubber labels often have sewing allowances at one end, while folded labels have sewing allowances around the perimeter.
Label Backings
Depending on how you apply your labels, you can change your backings. Sew-on labels don’t necessarily need a backing, as they are applied directly to the garment. However, if you are attaching the label on one side, you could choose a backing – which can add style to a high-end garment.
If you are planning to iron your labels to your garments, you’ll need a backing applied. It’s important to apply the iron-on appropriately so it does not peel off or fall off in the wash.