How to Apply Stickers and Labels: Techniques and Efficiency Tips

Stickers can enhance the appeal of your product. However, inconsistent application can damage the product's image. Understanding how to apply stickers neatly and avoiding mistakes is very useful.

This article provides detailed instructions from professional sticker printing companies on how to apply label stickers. Learn the steps for neat application and tips to avoid mistakes, aiming to improve the efficiency of sticker application.

We are a label and sticker printing company that creates various types of stickers such as label stickers and novelty stickers. If you want stickers tailored to your usage scenarios, please feel free to contact us.

How to Apply Label Stickers Neatly

First, let's introduce the steps to apply label stickers neatly in four steps. There are also some tips to ensure a clean finish, so please refer to them.

Step 1: Place the Product in a Stable Position

Prepare the product to which you will apply the label or sticker. Place the product with the application area facing up, ensuring it is fixed and does not move. For round items like bottles, place them on a towel or platform to prevent them from rolling.

By securing the product in advance, you can use both hands for application, making the process more efficient. Depending on the packaging material, reapplication may not be possible, so work in a stable environment to avoid mistakes.

Step 2: Remove the Sticker from the Backing Paper

Next, remove the sticker from the backing paper. Peel it off slowly from the corners or edges, being careful not to touch the adhesive surface as much as possible.

Before removing the sticker from the backing paper, it's helpful to have an idea of where exactly you want to place the sticker on the product. This will help you apply it quickly and neatly.

Step 3: Align the Edge and Apply While Removing Air

Align one edge of the sticker with the application area and apply it while removing air from the edges. Avoid placing the entire surface at once to prevent mistakes.

Glass or plastic containers often have a vertical seam, which can be used as a guide to apply the sticker straight.

If you apply the entire adhesive surface at once, there will be no room for correction if it is crooked. The shape of the sticker is fixed, so even aligning just one edge accurately will allow you to apply it straight and neatly.

If there is no guide line as mentioned above, it may be easier to apply from the center. Please choose according to your preference.

Step 4: Press Down from the Top to Finish

Finally, press down on the entire surface with your fingers or other tools to adhere the sticker completely to the product. Rubbing firmly to remove any air bubbles or wrinkles is key to a neat finish. Ensuring complete adhesion eliminates weak points, making it less likely to peel off. (90% of peeling issues are due to insufficient pressure during application).

By the way, the adhesive on stickers and labels typically settles after about half a day.

Products are ready for sale only after the label is applied, so handle this final step with care, as it is the finishing touch.

Comments from Customers Who Have Applied Labels

"I have become quite accustomed to the application process! It became easier when I aligned the sticker with the vertical seam (glass joint) on the bottle. Also, rolling the bottle while applying the sticker seems to help prevent wrinkles."

We are a sticker printing company that focuses on the "added value" of stickers and creates meticulously crafted stickers. If you are considering using stickers for brand image building or product differentiation, please feel free to contact us through "Contact Us".

Three Tips for Applying Labels and Stickers

There are three important points to consider to avoid mistakes when applying stickers. Let's take a closer look at each one.

Tip 1: Avoid Getting Hair or Dust on the Adhesive Surface

When handling stickers, ensure the environment is prepared so that the adhesive surface does not get contaminated with hair, dust, or other small debris. Use tape or adhesive cleaners to remove dust and lint from your clothes. Film materials tend to attract static electricity during the dry winter months, making them more prone to dust. Please be cautious.

Especially with transparent film materials, any debris on the adhesive surface, even small fibers from clothing, can cause bumps and be noticeable. Trying to remove debris with your fingers can worsen the situation by adding fingerprints or weakening the adhesive. To avoid wasting stickers, it is essential to prepare the environment before starting the application process.

Tip 2: Apply in the Correct Position to Avoid Misalignment

One of the essential tips for a neat sticker application is to apply it without misalignment. The easiest method varies from person to person, so find the best way that works for you.

Typically, the conventional method is to start applying from the edge or the center, but which edge (top, bottom, left, or right) to align first depends on the individual. Experiment with different methods to find the routine that allows you to apply stickers the most neatly.

Tip 3: Check for Air Bubbles and Wrinkles

After applying the label or sticker, check for air bubbles and wrinkles. Depending on the size and location of the bubbles, you can often remove them by pushing from the center outwards. Use your fingers or a squeegee (plastic scraper) to apply pressure and slowly smooth out the bubbles.

However, if the air bubbles or wrinkles are too large and difficult to fix, it may be better to give up and reapply. Stickers add value to the product, so it is crucial to pay attention to details such as appearance after application.

Three Techniques to Streamline Label and Sticker Application

The more labels and stickers you need to apply, the longer it takes, so it is essential to complete the work smoothly. Here, we introduce techniques to streamline the application process.

Technique 1: Prepare the Workspace

When applying stickers, set up your workspace to maintain focus. For label application, arrange the products and stickers within arm's reach while seated, and secure enough workspace for smooth operation. Having to stand up and sit down frequently can reduce efficiency when applying many labels.

Technique 2: Use a Label Peeler (For Stores)

A label peeler is a desktop peeling device. When you pull the backing paper of a roll of stickers, the sticker comes off the backing and is presented ready for application. It is convenient for quick use in-store or during packaging. It can be purchased on Amazon or Monotaro for around 2,000 to 3,500 yen.

Technique 3: Introduce a Labeler (For Businesses)

If you need to apply a large number of labels, consider introducing a labeler (automatic applicator). A labeler is a machine that automatically applies stickers when you place the product. This significantly speeds up the process and ensures that the labels are uniformly applied, making the products look neat when displayed.

However, note that the type of backing paper the machine can handle varies. Generally, it only supports roll-type stickers, so sheet-type labels cannot be set. The width of the backing paper that can be accommodated is also fixed, so be sure to check this when introducing the machine. If you already have a labeler, confirm the specifications to provide accurate instructions when ordering from the sticker printing company.

Maximize the Added Value of Stickers with Proper Application

The neat application methods and tips for stickers vary depending on the type. However, proper preparation is essential for any sticker. Pay particular attention to small debris such as dust and hair since you are dealing with adhesive surfaces.

In the beginning, focus more on the quality of the application rather than speed. Use the stickers' visual effects to add a vibrant touch to the application area.

We are a sticker printing company that prioritizes creating added value over mass production. We propose the best stickers for your needs and purposes. If you are considering creating stickers or labels, please feel free to contact us.

Photo and application cooperation by
OBROS COFFEE