You’re walking down the wine aisle when something catches your eye. It’s a label filled with stunning imagery. You don’t know what type of wine it is yet, but you reach for the bottle anyway. With a label like this, you’re sure you’re going to enjoy what’s inside the bottle.

 Labels have the power to transform how someone views a product. They evoke excitement, emotion, and energy. Your brand comes to life, capturing a buyer’s attention before she’s ever heard your brand’s name.

We’re on lesson 2 of 8 in the Stand Out Series: How to Make Your Labels Stand Out On The Shelf.

 This week, you’ll learn the importance of  Specialty Label Stocks and how these materials make your labels come to life on the shelf.

What are Specialty Label Stocks?

The term “Specialty Label Stocks”, refers to the surface of the labels. These are also known as  the label facestocks.  Matte, metallized, holographic, iridescent, textured surfaces are just a few of the Specialty Label Stocks available to you.

 Sometimes, standard label materials are a snoozefest to look at. They’re  nothing more than glossy white paper stock or “stickers” that you might see on a name badge.  Chances are you’ve seen these standard labels on foods or cosmetics where there is minimal exposure to moisture.  Unless you print these standard white labels with a broad spectrum of color, or you leave a lot of white space for a simple-chic look, your product may be outdone by these specialty label materials.

 Specialty label stock goes a step beyond the traditional label. It’s used to display colors vibrantly and make an excellent showcase for colorful text or graphics.

The Primary Types of Specialty Label Stock

So far specialty label stocks sound enticing, but is it the right type of label for you? Let’s explore.

• Clear film label stock  is one of the hottest specialty label stocks available today. The clarity lets you show off your product in a minimalistic, yet powerful way. It’s the ideal stock for silkscreening or imprinting with color to give the label a no frills, yet uber chic appearance. It’s truly the no label look.  Bring your label to life with a 3D effect using clear stock on a clear bottle. Add a mirror image printed on the back of the clear stock to make your label pop on the shelves..

• Metallic silver stocks have a bright, brilliant glow to them. They’re often used on beauty products for an eye catching effect. The base color on this stock is silver, which comes in two varieties – matte or gloss silver. The matte has a flat finish while the silver paper or film gives a brilliant mirror image effect. Metallic labels are often used with a variety of colors. For example, print your label with a yellow base and you’ll have a bright gold background.  This is only one option. The metallic color possibilities are endless!

• Textured linen stock gives an inviting, upscale look to your labels. This textured label mimics the appearance of cozy linens and luxury cloth. It’s often used to give products a high-end, vintage feel. Consumers are compelled to pick up, touch, and feel your product in their hands. The material handles well with embossing and foil printing, which adds a hint of contrast without stealing from the welcoming look and feel of your product.

• Holographic labels are similar to metallic labels, but they are 3-dimensional. This foil-based stock reflects prismatic colors in a variety of patterns, including iridescent prism, glitter, or rainbow. Create a special effect on your label by overprinting them. These logos are more than the stunning, lively imagery that meets the eye. Custom holographic designs can be made as a custom security background material.  These custom material designs are difficult to reproduce and are often used to prove authenticity when printing tag labels on expensive clothing or devices.

• Natural kraft label stocks offer another variety of earthy texture, perfect for all-natural product lines. This brown colored kraft stock provides a rustic or distressed look. They can sometimes pose a challenge during the printing process. The material is absorbent and may lead to ink discoloration. Printing on a smooth surface is key to creating a vibrant logo. You should never use more than two colors on this type of stock, or you run the risk of losing the quality of the look and feel.

Question:  Are you looking for a specialty material that can make your product label stand out?   Post it in the comments section below or drop us an email through our contact form.  If you like these tips and want more, direct to your inbox, don’t forget to check the box when you send us that email.