Fabric labels and ribbons: premade vs custom labels

Clothing labels 101 

Fabric and labels

What better way to improve a textile item than with a fabric label? Whether you want important safety information, sizing details, or to add a personal touch to any project- you can count on fabric labels. 

Everything you need to know about fabric labels and ribbons can be found here. From the range of fabric labels under the sun to tips on how to make your own. Here is the Ultimate Clothing Labels Guide.  

 

Fabric labels and tags

What are fabric labels?

Fabric labels or textile labels are small tags found inside garments. They are important because they contain essential details. Fabric labels can be made of various materials. Nylon, cotton, metal, or polyester.

 

How do you label fabric items?

The label industry has expanded vastly over the last few years. The seamstress started labeling fabric items with fabric markers. Now we have sew-on labels, ribbon, metal tags, iron-on labels- you name it, you can get it. 

Table of Contents

What are the different types of labels used on garments

What are the different types of labels?

There are various types of labels and ways to label garments. You need to pick the best one depending on what your desired outcome is. Sometimes you can even have all types of labels on one item!

7 ways to label clothes. Seven distinct forms of labelling 

The 7 main forms of labelling are:

  • Ironing on a label 
  • Using laundry stamps
  • Fabric markers 
  • Sew on a label 
  • Stick on labels
  • Using stickers 
  • Plastic tags

What are the 3 main types of labels?

The 3 best types of labels are:

  • Sew on labels
  • Iron-on labels 
  • Stick on labels

What are the advantages of fabric labels?

The best type of label to use is fabric labels. Whether it’s satin, cotton, or polyester. Labels made of fabric tend to last longer than plastic tags and fabric markers. 

Labels made of fabric can be attached either with sewing, ironing or sticking on. It can be attached conveniently compared to other tag options.   

What are the 17 types of labels?

The 17 types of fabric labels: 

  • Woven labels 
  • Printed labels 
  • Pre-made labels
  • Custom labels
  • Ribbons
  • Metal tags
  • Satin labels 
  • Leather labels
  • Cotton labels
  • Iron-on labels 
  • sew on labels
  • Paste-on labels
  • Logo or text labels
  • Care labels
  • Size labels
  • Brand labels 
  • Manufacturer labels

Labels can be made from various materials, attached in numerous ways, and serve different purposes. Here are the 17 different types of labels to spice up any project and add your own personal touch.

Woven labels

What is a woven label?

Woven labels are of higher quality than printed labels.

They are sturdier and stronger.

Thread is woven together to create beautiful designs and logos. 

Shop these woven labels from South Africa’s finest fabric shop

Woven labels

What is a woven label?

Woven labels are of higher quality than printed labels.

They are sturdier and stronger.

Thread is woven together to create beautiful designs and logos. 

Shop these woven labels from South Africa’s finest fabric shop!

Printed labels

What are printed labels? What are printed fabric labels? 

Printed labels are created using a printing machine.

It uses ink and colouring to create logos, names, and designs.

It can be done on paper material or fabric material like satin.

What is the difference between woven and printed labels?

There are many differences between woven and printed labels. Woven labels use thread whereas printed labels use ink. Printed fabric can be made of paper whereas woven labels are mainly made of fabric. 

Woven labels add a warm and personal touch to every garment. You can add a variety of shapes, threads, colours, and stitches to it. This is why Fabric8 has a wide range of woven labels.  Shop more woven labels at Fabric8

Pre-made labels

Pre-made labels are labels that come with a specific design and colour.

You get to choose from a wide variety of labels.

It’s based on the manufacturer’s likes and creativity.

Pre-made labels are great for anyone that prefers options over their creativity



Custom labels 

If you want to add your personal touch to any item, you can opt for custom labels.

Any fabric, pattern, design, and icon you desire. 

Premade labels vs Custom labels 

What’s the difference between pre-made labels and custom labels?

Premade labels and custom labels only have one difference – the designer. Custom labels are designed by you, while premade labels are designed by the seller. 

Custom labels are advantageous when you have a specific design, fabric, and colour in mind. Premade labels are advantageous when you don’t have your own idea and you prefer a professional seamstress’s eye. 

Ribbons 

Fabric labels and ribbons set

Ribbons are possibly the cutest form of fabric label on the market right now.

Ribbon labels are just logos, designs, or words printed onto a strand of ribbon

Fabric labels for handmade items 

You can use this label to wrap a box or to tie your small business product.

Ribbons can also be cut up into equal pieces and turned into sew-on labels

It adds a unique touch to any item.

Ribbons are ideal labels for handmade items. 

Still not convinced?  Here are 5 reasons why you should invest in branded ribbons.

Metal tags

Labels are also classified according to the material they’re made of.

Metal tags are revolutionizing the labelling industry.

Now you can label more than just textile garments. 

Add a personalized tag to a pet, your keys, or your handmade craft.

Metal tags are also a great way to add a nice message to a gift.

They have just the right amount of class and personal touch to your business products. 

Satin labels 

Another popular material used for labelling is satin.

Satin labels are made of soft and shiny fabric.

They can be attached by sewing them on or used as a ribbon.

They are usually a form of printed labels.  

Satin labels are the most beautiful labels available.

They can make any project look and feel more luxurious. 

Leather labels 

Are you looking for a durable yet beautiful label? Leather tags are ideal for you.

You can add them to just about anything.

From handbags to leather jackets – they are ideal.

Usually, leather labels are made of real leather.

They can come in various shades of brown.

Most seamstresses prefer to engrave these labels instead of printing on it.  

 

Cotton labels

Cotton is another great fabric for labelling.

The best fabric for clothing labels is cotton.

Cotton labels are soft and fairly durable.

They are easy to work with.

They can be printed on with ease.

You can also add woven detail to them without any hassle. 

Easy attachment, cotton labels can be sewn-on or ironed on.

They are extremely beneficial to avoid skin irritation when wearing labelled clothes.

The detail on cotton labels rarely fades over time. 

Iron-on labels

If you’re not good at sewing, iron-on labels are the way to go.

They are more secure than paste-on labels and are easier to attach than sew-on labels.

Iron-on labels are attached using high-heat irons and transparent paper for protection.

They can be woven labels or printed labels.

Usually, iron-on labels are custom clothing tags. With various names, icons, patterns, and designs. 

Click here to learn more about the advantages of using iron-on clothing labels.

Sew on labels

Sew-on labels are the most popular form of labels.

Textile manufacturing industries are using this form of label worldwide.

Sew-on labels are usually woven labels.

They add the traditional sewing look to any piece.

They come in various sizes, with various materials.

Use a sewing machine or hand-sewing to quickly attach these

Logo or text labels

Care labels care label for clothing with logos and explanations as to how to take care of the garment

If your mom isn’t around to tell you how to do the laundry or iron your shirt – you can count on care labels.

They tell you exactly how to look after the specific garment in question.

Care labels are usually in the form of printed labels. 

Read up on the importance of care labels.

Size labels

Size labels might be the most bitter-sweet of them all.

You know, your favourite pair of jeans, that you can no longer fit into because the size label said no. 

They present information on the sizing of garments.

Some size labels can be numbered and some can be lettered.

Manufacturers use a universal sizing system. UK and US have different size guides.

 

Brand labels 

What are brand labels?a tag label with the words 'branded' written on them

A good way to give your business identity is by having a brand label. Choose whichever material, colour, and design that best suits your product. Brand labels are meant to be simplistic and consistent. 

You can reach new clients easier when they identify a tag on a purchased good. It also keeps up the reputation of a business. People are more likely going to look for your tag when shopping if your previous branded product was good. 

 

Material labels for clothing.

What fabric is used for labels?

The 7 main fabrics used to make clothing labels:

  • Cotton
  • Satin 
  • Wool
  • Linen
  • Leather 
  • Polyester satin
  • Denim

 

Clothing labels for kids 

Any parent knows the struggle of having your little one lose the brand new shoes you bought them. This is why labeling your children’s goods is so important. 

The main types of labels for children:

  • Fabric marker
  • Paste-on labels
  • Sew-on labels
  • Customised iron-on labels

 

How do I label my child’s clothes? 

How do you make labels for kids?

It’s important to know how to label your kid’s clothes. It should be clear enough that you can identify their items when lost. However, it should be secured enough so that they can’t destroy the label. 

Here’s how to label kid’s clothes:

  • Make sure it is personalized 
  • Do not add too many personal details about your child
  • Ensure it is secured tightly 
  • Let all their items have the same label
  • Make them aware of their labels and the importance thereof 
  • Ensure the fabric isn’t itchy 
  • Smaller labels are ideal for kids 

 

Clothing labels sew on 

Sew-on labels are ideal for clothing items. The best sew-on fabrics are cotton, satin, and polyester. Sew-on labels are the most secure labels. They add a natural hand-made touch to every clothing item. 

 

Fabric labels for crochet items  

How do you label crochet items?

Crochet items can be labelled in many ways. If you’re a beginner, then purchase a sew-on customised label. If you’re a pro-seamstress, you can crochet or knit your own labels to match your crocheted items. 

 

Is there a market for handmade crochet items?

How do I make my own knitting labels?

There is a big market for handmade crochet items. From blouses to labels, knitting, and crochet items are beautiful when handmade. 

You can easily crochet or knit your own labels using your favourite colours, patterns, and designs. 

Click on the following if you want to learn how to earn money on your crochet items

 

Fabric labels for quilts 

What can I use for quilt labels?

How do I Handwrite a quilt label?

The best labels for quilts are fabric markers. There are various kinds of fabric markers. It’s best to choose a marker that is waterproof and does not fade easily.

Iron-friendly markers are also recommended. 

How do I make my own quilt labels?

Can I use a Sharpie to make a quilt label?

You can use a sharpie to make a quilt label. However, some sharpies aren’t fabric-friendly. This means they can smudge or fade when washed, dried, or ironed.

 

Custom Ribbons 

How can I customise my own ribbon? 

Custom ribbons are a beautiful modern form of labeling. You can label a wide range of items. From wedding invites to Christmas gifts. 

Find out below what the best way is to customise your own ribbon.

Where can I buy custom ribbon? How much does custom ribbon cost? 

The best way to customise your own ribbon is to collaborate with a professional label shop like www.fabric8.co.za

Pick your favourite colour, ideal shade, best icon, and perfect phrase. Then sit back and let our pros make your vision come alive. 

 

How to Label tips and tricks

Are you a newbie to the label industry? You’ve come to the right place. Here is your ultimate how-to guide on all things labels:

  1. How to: make your own labels
  2. How to: make ribbon labels
  3. How to: choose a label maker
  4. How to: attach labels
  5. How to: put your logo on items

 

1. How to: make your own labels

Can I create my own label? 

Yes, you can create your own labels. Labels are essential to add personal information, special touches, and important instructions to items. 

How do I make my own clothing line labels? 

How do I make my own product labels? 

There are 6 steps in making your own product labels:

  • Design 
  • Choose material 
  • Readability 
  • Find your pro
  • Get a quote
  • Sit back 

Step 1: Design 

Create your ideal design. Do you want to add a special message or your brand name? You can add anything your heart desires. 

Step 2: Choose material

Fabric labels come in various types of material. Leather, satin, cotton, denim, cardboard, paper- which one will you use?

Step 3: Readability

Now check your label design for readability. Test it out on a printer. Adjust your specs accordingly. 

Step 4: Find your pro

Time to let the magic begin. Get your design turned into a masterpiece with www.fabric8.co.za

Step 5: Get a quote

How much does it cost to have labels made?

At Fabric8, you will receive a quote for your design. Here you can plan just how many labels you want and how much your desired product will cost. 

Step 6: Sit back 

Now sit back and let the pros get to work. Receive your custom labels via courier in 5 days. 

 

2. How to: choose a label maker

Label maker 

What kind of label maker do I need? 

The 9 qualities of a good label maker:

  • Delivers a professional look 
  • Has pre-loaded labels
  • Has the option of adding frames
  • Portable size
  • Easy-to-use keyboard 
  • Adjustable font sizes 
  • Adjustable tape cartridges
  • Simple screen 
  • Bonus feature: Lamination 

What can I use instead of a label maker?

You can work with a fabric store instead of using a label maker. www.fabric8.co.za is a reliable South African crafts store. Here you can find a wide range of labels. 

If you want a professional touch to all your labels and tags, collaborate with one of the sewing experts. Fabric8 has all the tools. All you need is a vision for your labels!

What’s the difference between a label maker and a label printer?

Both a label maker and a label printer make labels. A label printer is a computerised machine. It prints on paste-on material. You usually need to connect them to a computer that can create labels. 

Label makers print onto labels. It is a free-standing machine. It has its own keyboard, battery,  hardware and software to create labels independently. 

2. How to: attach labels

How to attach clothing labels to garments 

There are many ways to attach labels to garments. The easiest ways to do it are:

  • Ironing it on
  • Pasting it on
  • Sewing it on

Which method you choose depends on your personal preference

3.How to: put your logo on items

How do I put my logo on clothes? How do I get my logo on products?

There are 4 main ways to put your logo on products:

  • Using labels and tags
  • Engraving onto the product
  • Printing on the product
  • Pasting the logo on the packaging

How do I put my logo on labels?

The best way to put your logo on any product is by using labels and tags. Tags are a great way to promote your brand without changing the design of your product. 

 

Where to buy labels for clothing

How do I get clothing labels?

Labels are very important in the textile and fabric industry. From manufacturer labels to ribbons, they can add a personalised touch to just about anything.

Fabric labels for clothing near me. Fabric labels and ribbon stores near me. 

Shopping for labels can be challenging. There are so many different fabrics, types, shapes, and patterns. The best way to purchase fabric labels is to scroll online through a wide range of options. The best fabric online store is www.fabric8.co.za 

Clothing labels near me

All Fabric8 labels

Fabric8 is a fantastic sewing and creative store for all your fabric needs. Here is the list of labels and tags available at Fabric8:

Fabric labels South Africa

Clothing labels online 

Not sure which label you want to use? Skip the long queues. Scroll through this wide range of label options that Fabric8. Pick the colour and design that is best for your project at hand: https://fabric8.co.za/product-category/sewing-labels-and-tags/ 

Premade vs custom labels

Premade Labels 

Personalized clothing labels 

Fabric8 has everything you need. You can select from a wide range of premade labels. They are all perfectly crafted by our experts. 

You can also opt for custom labels where you are in control! Pick any colour, design, and material. Then sit back and let the pros create your perfect label.