Adhesive Labels – Getting Started

Appearing simple at first, adhesive labels are deceivingly complex creatures. Much more than mere “stickers”, labels are designed to carry information. Whether this info is expressed through a barcode or written text, the label’s main purpose is to create a smooth flow of information transfer for any operation. The goal is to simplify, removing the effort, time, and expense involved with handwriting and human error. A label’s composition is made up of four distinct layers, and our extensive range of materials allows for a custom combination suitable for your label application. Whether preprinted or specially crafted by The Label Experts, why not learn about how labels can serve you?

Label Layers
We here at EIM like to use an analogy for the layers of labels. Think of ordering a sub at your favorite sandwich shop. You tell the maker which bread, protein, sauce, and vegetables you would like. Labels work the same way. When you are specifying a custom order, it’s important to consider the four layers of labels: liner, adhesive, face-stock, and top coat.

diagram of the layers that make up an adhesive label including the liner, adhesive, facestock, and topcoat

Feeling educated? Speak to The Label Experts today!

Top Coats
Identified as the top surface, this clear layer applies directly onto a face-stock. Using a top-coat for your label is not always necessary, but does serve useful purposes, such as enhancing ink adhesion and lamination. Extended exposure to UV and other conditions may require your label to have a topcoat to avoid ink upheaval. If you are requesting samples or a quote, you will be prompted for either a gloss or matte finish for your label. These are more or less for aesthetic purposes and would not alter the functionality of your label. Learn more about top coats.

Face-Stocks
The material that you see and touch when using labels. More specifically, this is the layer that the machine prints on, and sticks to a desired surface through the adhesive on the back. EIMINC® offers an extensive selection of face-stocks, including papers, plastics and polyimides. The face-stock is equally as important as the adhesive to choose for correctly using the label under varying conditions. Learn more about face-stocks.

Adhesives
Serves as the glue that holds the face-stock to its liner. Whether bonding your label to cardboard or glass, the adhesive is responsible for sticking under various conditions. Adhesives are generally grouped in three chemical categories: rubber, acrylic, and silicone. They also come in permanent and removable designs. Using the correct adhesive is crucial to ensuring the label meets your custom requirements and application. Learn more about adhesives.

Liners
The paper or polyester that carries the actual label is called the liner, also known as the bottom surface. Although usually viewed as throwaway material, it plays an important role in the feeding through printers. The liner comes in 40, 50, & 60 pound thick sizes, with 50 being the most common due to versatility. Liners can also be special ordered as clear film instead of paper, allowing for auto-application by machines. 50 & 60 liner thicknesses are also auto-apply ready. However, if you are requesting samples or a quote, our experts will most likely make a more informed decision about liner specifications. Learn more about liners.

Advanced Adhesive Labels Lingo
Educating yourself on the composition of a label is essential. However, EIMINC® offers additional information that may further aid your understanding of label printing techniques. While these pages are not as critical to your ordering process, they give greater insight into custom properties and labeling services that we can offer when creating your product. Click through below to learn more about:

While our Getting Started guide may be useful, nothing can replace speaking 1-on-1 with one of The Label Experts. We are excited to assist you and help you come to a solution for your unique labeling needs.