Facestocks (the printed surface of the label), laminates (coatings that can be applied to facestocks), and adhesives must be carefully matched; and there are literally hundreds of combinations. In making your selection, take into account the following points:

Paper

Paper is the most commonly used facestock and usually the lowest in cost. It is available in many types, thicknesses, colors, and sizes. However, paper can be damaged by light, water, dirt, and chemicals, and may be torn or scraped. Paper labels serve best in controlled environments and in applications such as product labeling, pricing, shipping, and addressing.

Synthetics

Synthetic facestocks include, but are not limited to, polyester, polypropylene, vinyl, and mylar. These stocks provide high print quality and are likely to hold up better than paper for labels that might be exposed to hard use or extreme conditions.

Laminated facestocks provide extra durability. Clear polyester film can be applied to product labels, tags, tickets, and other items likely to be exposed to hard use or extreme conditions. Black laminate film can be obtained for increased security. Bar codes covered with a black coating cannot be seen by the human eye but can be read by an infrared scanner.

Many combinations are available. Some applications require permanent labels that resist exposure to temperature extremes, high humidity, chemicals, or outdoor use. Other labels must be easily removed without tearing, damaging the item, or leaving a residue. Labels may also need to be removed and then re-applied, or to be tamper-resistant or tamper-evident.

Of course, some surfaces are particularly difficult to label. Specific adhesive formulations are necessary for wood, recycled corrugated cardboard, refrigerated materials, and small, curved objects. The two most common types of adhesive are rubber-based and acrylic-based.

Rubber-Based Adhesives

These products are useful for quick-sticking applications, but may weaken if exposed to cleaning solvents or ultraviolet light.

Acrylic-Based Adhesives

These adhesives come in a wide range. Some allow clean, easy removal. Others may require some time to set completely, but hold permanently in a wide variety of conditions. These adhesives work well with tamper-sensitive applications that can be prepared in advance, such as security badges, capital asset labeling, or important documents. Labels are also available that either will not come off in one piece or will leave behind the word “void” when they are improperly removed.

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