It might sound a bit intimidating, but creating labels does not have to be complicated at all. In fact, we can make it pretty easy for you. Below, you can find our expert tips on tricks on
- Free ways to create your own label designs
- How to save money when ordering labels
Read on to find out more about the best way to get custom-printed labels - super easy, fast and without breaking the bank.
What is the best free program to create labels?
There are dozens and dozens of design programs available. The most common and popular ones like Adobe Illustrator or CorelDRAW come with a subscription fee. But there are a few options if you want to create labels without having to pay extra for your design.
Finding design elements
You can start by finding design elements to copy and reassemble in a program like Microsoft Word or similar. Some of the best places to find these resources are:
- FreePik - Hundreds of icons and images you can use
- Pixabay - Free photos you can download
- Unsplash - Full of royalty-free images
If you are looking for specific tools to remove a background, for example, you can use something like Vector Magic or Clipping Magic. We also have more tips on how to create custom labels for you.
Using comprehensive design tools
Do you want to more comprehensive approach? Then the easiest way to create your label is to use an online designer. These have free templates and design elements you can browse, select and edit to fit your needs. Our favourites are: Canva and Graphic.
Both are free online design tools with sticker and label templates that make it super easy for beginners to create high-quality designs - no experience needed! You can do anything - create pretty labels, return address labels, custom product labels, labels to organise your pantry and much more.
We might be a little biased here, as Graphic is our very own tool, specifically made for creating professional designs in minutes. Just look at the example below!
How do you make inexpensive labels?
Now, once you have created a design you are happy with, it is time to think about
a) the material you want to print your custom labels on
b) what size you need them to be
c) how many labels you need
All of these components will determine the cost of your labels, no matter if you want to print them yourself or are looking to order them online. So let's have a look at how you can get the best out of each aspect.
Finding the right material
There are dozens of materials to choose from when you are creating custom labels. That is the beauty of going custom. Roughly, your label material options can be divided into three categories: Standard vinyl, effect vinyl and paper.
As you can probably tell, effect vinyls are a premium option. When you want to create low-cost labels, standard vinyl like white vinyl is usually your cheapest option.
Paper labels can also be low-cost. However, paper-based materials should only be used indoors and be kept away from water.
Choose the right label sizes
Of course, the larger your label, the more expensive your label will be. To keep your label small, be mindful of how much text, images and graphics you include when designing your labels.
A word of warning: Do not opt for a tiny label only to save money.
At the end of the day, your label fulfils a purpose and has to be legible. A 2x2cm label might have an amazing price, but these are only suitable for a few uses.
Finding the right label size on the first try is really the best way to save money, time, and nerves.
If you are unsure, you can test a few different sizes by ordering custom samples.
Determining the quantity you need
Yes, the more labels you order, the more you will pay. But it can actually be worth looking at the price per label instead of the overall total.
Oftentimes, you will find that there are bulk discounts that significantly reduce the price per label. Just have a look at the breakdown for a 5x5cm white vinyl label below:
50 - £36 or 72p per label
100 - £45 or 45p per label
500 - £93 or 19p per label
1,000 - £158 or 16p per label
2,000 - £247 or 12p per label
5,000 - £473 or 9p per label
10,000 - £794 or 8p per label
Time to print labels!
And those were the easiest, quickest and cheapest ways to make your own labels. Are you ready to try it out for yourself? Then check out our range of custom labels - and keep our tips in mind.
But most importantly: have fun making labels. Custom labels are perfect for letting your creativity run free and getting your product to shine. And with these tools, tips, and tricks, you can be sure to create great labels.
If your labels are already at the end of their life cycle, you might need tips on how to remove custom labels.