Before you discover the many types of labels that Western States Envelope & Label carries, let’s learn a bit about the most common types of label materials and adhesives.

To jump ahead and see label samples or get specific product information, please View Our Catalog.

MOST COMMON TYPES OF LABEL MATERIALS
Although there are endless variations of label materials, these are the most common types available:

Latex-Impregnated
This durable, flexible paper has latex adhesive on one side and can easily be imprinted through a computer. It can also conform to curved surfaces such as rounded shelf ends and test tubes.

Matte Litho
This semi-gloss material is great for quality printing. However, its finish is not real absorbent and requires longer for the ink to dry. Matte Litho can perform better in difficult applications, but it’s not as versatile as a smudge-proof material.

Smudge-proof
Smudge-proof materials are specially formulated for computer printing because of their ability to absorb ink quickly when passing through an imprinting device. This material minimizes smudging and enables the label to be handled and used shortly after imprinting.

Thermal Transfer
This label material is made to use for thermal transfer printing, a process in which ink is transferred from a ribbon to the label surface by means of heat and light pressure. Thermal transfer material is ideal for barcodes or high print quality.

Vinyl
Vinyl labels are most commonly used on containers that are exposed to chemicals or outdoor weather conditions. This material is extremely flexible and moisture-resistant.


COMMON ADHESIVES
Adhesive is critical to a label’s success. To determine the level of “stick-ability” that your label needs, it helps to know about the most common types of label adhesives:

Cold Temperature Adhesive
This adhesive is formulated to withstand cold temperatures. It’s ideal for refrigerated storage, frozen foods, or cold outdoor applications. Please note that this adhesive may not perform well in extremely cold temperatures and should be tested first. In warm conditions, this adhesive can naturally bleed from the label’s edges, causing stored labels to stick together.

Corrugated Material Adhesive
This refers to special adhesives that perform better when applied to corrugated containers. The widespread use of recycled cardboard calls for an adhesive that will work well with these types of materials.

Patterned Adhesive
This simply refers to using any adhesive to coat a label in patterns or areas, rather than over the back of the entire label. Orders for these labels are a bit more specialized—contact Western States first to discuss your needs.

Permanent Adhesive
Recommended for general applications where a label wouldn’t be removed after it’s applied. Although not guaranteed to be permanent and non-removable in every application, this adhesive was developed to be as permanent as possible on many different surfaces. Unless otherwise specified, all label products from Western States Label have a general purpose, permanent adhesive.

Removable Adhesive
This adhesive is perfect for temporary use label applications. Keep in mind that it is not guaranteed to be removable in all cases; this adhesive does have a tendency to set after sticking for long periods of time.

TYPES OF LABELS
Here are the different label types available to you from Western States Envelope & Label:

1. Square/Rectangular
   From mailing to using on specialty products, there are many uses for our square and rectangle labels. See our catalog, or contact us for a listing of sizes, quantities and pricing.
   
2. Circle, Burst, Oval & Special Shapes
   Circle and burst labels are often used to affix prices on products, for special pricing information, or to draw attention to a product. Ovals are general-purpose labels, ideal for using with small packages. Special shape labels offer a unique way to get attention or build an image.
   
3. Computer Printed
   Computer printed labels are designed for computer printers with continuous feed. Available in the most popular sizes, these labels are conveniently fanfolded and perforated. We recommend having these made with smudge-proof materials.
   
4. Butt Cut (Square Cut) & Bumper Stickers
   With neat square corners and variety of sizes, our butt cut labels are ideal for many uses. Create a correction label for an expensive form, brochure or catalog, or add new information to an existing product. Our bumper sticker labels are made of a white vinyl (4 mil or.004” thick) that is laminated for ultimate weather resistance and longevity. They have a removable adhesive to protect a car’s finish. Bumper stickers are a great way to promote your business, services, products or candidate.
   
5. Blank White & Clear Laser
   Our blank white laser labels are made of a premium bright white 50# laser stock with a no ooze permanent adhesive. They are designed to work easily in most printers and copiers. Our clear labels are made of a naturally translucent clear paper with a permanent adhesive. This clear paper is extreme dense, allowing for a high resolution laser-printed image.