Ever wondered how to add a personal touch to your sewing projects that sets them apart? Custom made sewing labels are the answer, turning your handmade creations into truly unique pieces.
Whether you’re selling your work, gifting it, or just want to leave your mark, knowing how to make custom labels is essential. Having your own label isn’t just about branding – it’s about pride and recognition.
In this article, you’ll discover easy steps, clever tips, and creative ideas for making custom sewing labels that reflect your style.
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How to Make Custom Sewing Labels
Custom sewing labels can add a personal, professional touch to handmade garments, quilts, crafts, or any textile project. Whether you’re a hobbyist, a small business owner, or crafting gifts for loved ones, learning how to create your own sewing labels is a fun and valuable skill. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what custom sewing labels are, how to make them, key considerations, and tips for ensuring your labels stand out.
What Are Custom Sewing Labels?
Custom sewing labels are small, fabric or woven tags attached to handmade items. They typically display your name, brand, washing instructions, or even a unique message. Not only do these labels offer a sense of professionalism, but they also help establish brand recognition, provide care guidance, and make your creations more memorable.
Types of Sewing Labels
- Woven Labels: Made with threads woven into the fabric, these are long-lasting and feel premium.
- Printed Labels: Produced by printing ink onto fabric, allowing for vibrant colours and intricate designs.
- Embroidered Labels: Bring a textured look with stitched text or logos.
- Iron-on Labels: Attach with heat—no sewing needed.
- Sew-in Labels: Stitched by hand or machine into your project for a secure, classic finish.
Step-by-Step Guide: Making Custom Sewing Labels
Ready to personalise your handmade items? Follow these steps to create your own custom sewing labels:
1. Decide What You Want on the Label
Start by considering:
– Your brand or name
– A logo or symbol
– Care instructions
– Size information
– A personal message or quote
Keep designs clear and legible, especially if your labels will be small.
2. Choose Your Label Type and Material
Based on your project:
– Woven polyester labels are durable and smooth, ideal for most garments.
– Cotton labels offer a soft, natural look, perfect for baby or eco-friendly products.
– Satin labels add a touch of luxury and sheen.
3. Design Your Label
You can create your own design using graphic design software or online label design tools. Many suppliers also offer easy-to-use design platforms, where you can pick fonts, colours, and symbols.
Tips for Designing:
– Opt for high-contrast colours for readability.
– Use simple fonts that look clear at small sizes.
– Incorporate your logo, but be mindful of fine details that may not reproduce well on threads or fabric.
4. Select Your Label Size and Shape
Common shapes include rectangles, squares, or folded ends. Choose the size according to where the label will be sewn:
– Inside neck seam
– Side seam
– Hemline
– Outside as a decorative feature
5. Find a Manufacturer or Make Labels at Home
You have two main options:
A. Ordering from a Custom Label Company
Many companies specialise in custom sewing labels, providing:
– Woven or printed labels in low quantities (even 10–50 pieces)
– Easy-to-use online designers
– Fast shipping options
– Variety of sizes, colours, folds, and finishes
Popular Features:
– Choice of thread or print colours
– Uploading your own logo or artwork
– Selecting woven, satin, or cotton bases
– Folding options (straight cut, centre fold, end fold)
B. DIY: Making Labels at Home
If you’re crafty, you can create labels yourself:
1. Print labels on iron-on transfer paper using an inkjet printer, then apply them to cotton fabric.
2. Embroider labels by hand or with a machine, using embroidery thread and a needle or automatic embroidery settings.
3. Stamp labels using permanent fabric ink and rubber stamps on cotton tape.
Home label-making tips:
– Use tightly woven fabric for neat edges.
– Finish the label edges using pinking shears or by folding under and sewing.
– Heat-set ink or paint to ensure labels survive washing.
6. Attach the Labels
- Sew-in labels: Use a straight or zigzag stitch near the edge, either by hand or with a sewing machine.
- Iron-on labels: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for ironing time and temperature.
- For extra durability, sew around the edges even if using iron-on types.
Benefits of Custom Sewing Labels
Why bother with custom labels at all? Here are the top reasons:
- Professionalism: They make your handmade items look polished and market-ready.
- Branding: Reinforces your business or personal brand identity.
- Care instructions: Communicate how to wash and care for your items.
- Personalisation: Add a unique message or the recipient’s name for gifts.
- Recognition: Makes it easy for others to recognise your work, aiding word-of-mouth marketing.
Aspects to Consider When Choosing Custom Sewing Labels
Selecting the right label is about more than just looks. Here’s what to keep in mind:
Material and Feel
- Woven labels feel soft and integrate well with fabric.
- Satin and cotton give a gentle touch, suitable for sensitive skin.
- Nylon labels are sturdy and long-lasting.
Colour Durability
Look for colorfast options that won’t fade after repeated washing.
Attachment Method
Decide whether you prefer sewing labels in or simply ironing them on.
Customisation Options
The best suppliers offer:
– Choice of shapes (straight cut, end fold, book fold)
– Wide design choices
– Small quantity orders
– Fast sampling and production
Cost
- Prices start from as low as £9 for 50 labels when buying online.
- Bulk orders bring the price per label down significantly.
- Consider if shipping is included, especially when ordering from oversees or small batches.
- Home-made labels have a low upfront cost but require time and material investment.
Shipping Considerations
- If ordering from outside the UK, factor in longer shipping times and possible import duties.
- Many UK-based label suppliers offer fast, low-cost, or even free shipping on minimum orders.
Practical Tips and Best Practices
- Order Samples First: Always try a test batch before committing to a large order. This helps ensure colour and fabric match your expectations.
- Keep It Simple: Overly complex designs may blur or look messy at small sizes.
- Label Placement: Think ahead about where the label will go and how it might feel against skin or look on the finished product.
- Test for Washability: Launder a sample label before attaching them to all your items.
- Bulk Buy When Ready: Save money by ordering in bulk once you’re satisfied with your label design.
Common Challenges When Making Custom Sewing Labels
- Clarity at Small Sizes: Details and fine print can be lost; stick to bold, clear fonts and images.
- Alignment When Sewing: Labels can shift or pucker. Pin or use fabric glue to position labels before sewing.
- Matching Your Brand: Pick colours and materials consistent with your brand image.
- Lead Times: Custom orders from manufacturers may take a few weeks—plan ahead for big projects or launches.
- Cost for Small Orders: Minimum order amounts and sampling fees can affect price-per-label for very small businesses.
Cost Tips for Custom Sewing Labels
- Order locally when possible to save on international shipping.
- Look for volume discounts — the cost per label drops sharply as quantity increases.
- Consider basic designs if budget is tight; extra colours and unique shapes can add to the price.
- DIY for short runs; it’s economical for personal use or prototypes.
- Check for bundle deals (many suppliers offer deals when you purchase multiple types of labels, e.g., branding plus care labels).
Conclusion
Adding custom sewing labels to your handmade creations can elevate their appearance and value. With a wide array of options for design, materials, and attachment methods, both hobbyists and small businesses have access to professional-quality labels in small or large quantities. Whether you design and DIY your own, or use a custom label service, the result is a personal touch that customers and recipients will notice and appreciate. Start small, refine your design, and find the label solution that best matches your brand and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What material is best for custom sewing labels?
Woven polyester and cotton are the most popular. Polyester is durable and works for most garments, while cotton has a soft, natural finish perfect for sensitive items or eco-friendly brands.
How do I attach sewing labels to my items?
You can stitch labels in by hand or sewing machine, or use iron-on or adhesive labels. Sew-in labels are the most durable and professional-looking, while iron-on are quick and easy.
Can I create labels at home, or do I need to order professionally?
Both are possible. You can make small batches at home using iron-on transfer paper, stamping, or embroidery. For larger or more uniform orders, professional label makers offer more options and consistency.
How many labels should I order for my business?
Start with a small order (e.g., 50–100 labels) to test your design. Once happy with the quality and look, consider ordering larger quantities to take advantage of bulk discounts.
Will my labels survive repeated washing and drying?
If you choose quality woven or printed labels from reputable suppliers, they should stand up well to regular washing and drying. Always follow the care instructions provided by the label manufacturer and test a sample if in doubt.
With these tips and insights, you’re ready to create sewing labels that will make your handmade items stand out with a personal, professional touch!