How to Design and Print Custom Labels for Your Business

In today’s competitive market, the smallest details can make the biggest impact. Custom labels not only showcase your brand but also help with product identification, compliance, and customer engagement. Whether you're in retail, food & beverage, cosmetics, or e-commerce, knowing how to design and print custom labels for your business is essential to staying ahead.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from design tips and material options to printing methods and vendor recommendations.

Your label is often the first impression your customer has with your product. A well-designed custom label communicates professionalism, personality, and value.

• Display your logo, brand colors, and typography

• Communicate your story or mission

• Build consistency across product lines

Aesthetic appeal drives sales. Custom labels elevate the appearance of packaging, helping products stand out on shelves or in shipping boxes.

• Match your industry vibe: rustic, modern, luxury, minimal

• Incorporate textures like matte, gloss, or foil

• Use unique shapes and sizes

Certain industries require specific labeling—especially food, supplements, and cosmetics.

• Ingredient lists, nutritional facts, allergen info

• Barcode and SKU numbers

• QR codes or regulatory info

Clear, informative labels make products easier to understand and trust. Good labels:

• Explain product use or instructions

• Include reorder info or websites

• Use scannable tech like NFC or QR codes

Before diving into design, ask yourself:

• What is the label going on? (Bottle, box, bag, jar, etc.)

• Will it be used indoors or outdoors?

• Should it be waterproof, scratch-resistant, or removable?

• What information needs to be included?

Understanding the function helps guide your design and material choices.

Different label materials serve different needs. Here are a few popular options:

• Ideal for dry goods or products with limited handling

• Budget-friendly and eco-conscious

• Great for wine bottles, coffee bags, or shipping labels

• Durable and waterproof

• Best for food, beverage, or beauty items

• Withstands refrigeration and moisture

• Sleek and minimal look

• Works well for clear packaging

• Allows product color to show through

• Adds luxury and depth

• Often used for premium products, candles, or cosmetics

Designing is where creativity meets functionality. Keep these tips in mind:

• Incorporate your logo, colors, and fonts

• Keep a consistent tone and style

• Use contrasting text and background colors

• Ensure important info like ingredients or expiration dates is legible

• Custom illustrations or patterns

• QR codes leading to your website or social media

• Taglines or stories

Need help with design? iCustomLabel offers easy-to-use design tools and templates.

Your product shape and label location determine the ideal label dimensions. Popular shapes include:

• Circles and ovals (great for lids and jars)

• Rectangles and squares (ideal for boxes, pouches)

• Custom die-cut shapes for a unique look

Always test a sample to ensure a snug fit and appealing appearance.

Printing choices impact durability, color vibrancy, and budget:

• Perfect for small runs or frequent updates

• Full-color, high-quality results

• Fast turnaround

• Cost-effective for bulk orders

• Great for simple, repetitive designs

• Longer lead times

• Common for barcodes and shipping labels

• Best for variable data or on-demand needs

For professional, high-quality custom printing, check out iCustomLabel’s printing services.

Application can make or break the final look. Here’s how to get it right:

• Clean the surface before applying

• Use label applicators for bulk production

• Apply pressure evenly to avoid bubbles or wrinkles

If you’re ready to bring your designs to life, work with a trusted vendor like iCustomLabel.

• Wide range of materials, shapes, and finishes

• Fast shipping and easy online ordering

• Low minimums and bulk discounts

• Custom design support

You can also learn more about label design best practices at Avery, a respected authority in the label printing space.