Choose a gloss or matte laminate when the label has to stand up to water, handling, and scuffs. Choose unlaminated paper when you need to write on the label with a pen or pencil, or tear it easily, as long as the label will stay dry. Paper roll labels are always unlaminated, trade templates offer Unlaminated, and unlaminated BOPP is available on request. Stickers and sheet labels are always laminated.
What changes without a laminate
The laminate is a clear protective film over the print; what does the laminate on a sticker do? explains it. Without it:
- the printed surface is exposed, so it can scuff and isn't protected from water;
- paper takes pen and pencil, and tears easily;
- you get the bare surface of the material, with no shine at all.
Choose unlaminated when
- You write on every label by hand: dates, batch numbers, or names. Pen and pencil work straight onto unlaminated paper. Dates, ingredients, and writing on food labels has layout tips.
- You want a label that tears, such as a seal across a box or bag.
- The product stays dry, and the label doesn't need to survive heavy handling.
Choose laminated when
- The label meets water, condensation, oil, or a lot of handling.
- You want a gloss or matte look; see gloss or matte.
- You still want to write on it. On roll labels, choose matte, and write with a pen or Sharpie. You can write on a gloss roll label, but it scratches off with a fingernail. Test your pen before a big run, and see can I write on my stickers or labels?
The laminate goes with the material
On roll labels, White Plastic BOPP is laminated, gloss or matte, and paper roll labels aren't laminated. Paper has no water resistance of its own, so keep it for products that stay dry. BOPP already handles moisture and oils as a film, so on BOPP the laminate is mainly about protecting the print and choosing the finish. BOPP or paper compares the two materials.
Where to choose it
- On Custom Roll Labels, White Plastic BOPP comes in "Gloss" or "Matte", and White Satin Paper is "Unlaminated" only. For unlaminated BOPP, ask us when you order.
- Paper Roll Labels are the place to start for paper on a roll.
- Trade templates offer Unlaminated too.
- Stickers and sheet labels come in Gloss or Matte only.