Pressure Sensitive Labels

What is a Pressure Sensitive Label?

A Pressure Sensitive Label (PS Label) is a versatile, self-adhesive labeling solution. Labels are die cut into any shape or size, usually delivered on a roll and composed of three basic components:

1. Face Sheet: This is the label's surface, where we print your graphics, text, and branding elements. The face sheet material is available in either paper or film, each offering a wide range of standard and custom finishes.
2. Adhesive Layer: Positioned beneath the face sheet, the adhesive layer attaches the label to your container. Adhesives are formulated to suit specific surfaces and conditions.
3. Release Liner: This backing material protects the adhesive until the label is ready to be applied. During application, the release liner is removed, allowing the label to be applied onto the container with ease. Release liners are available as PET or paper.

Label Application

The label application process for pressure sensitive labels is incredibly straightforward. While most of our customers utilize machine application, they can also be applied by hand. The release liner is simply removed, allowing the label to adhere securely to the desired surface.

Types of Materials

Pressure sensitive labels come in a variety of material options to suit any use environment or labeling requirement.

Paper Face Sheet

Frequently the preferred option for cost-effective high-volume printing, paper labels are also offered in luxurious textures and vibrant colors.

Film Face Sheet

A film face sheet provides superior durability and is chemical and water resistant. Film labels are available in clear, white, metalized, and specialty finishes. These labels are ideal for products that require a high-end look or need to withstand harsh conditions.

Adhesives

Adhesive qualities are formulated to suit specific applications and container surfaces.. Adhesives range from permanent to removable, and repositionable. Additionally, adhesives are tailored for use, storage and application temperature ranges.

Liners

We produce high-quality easy-to-apply pressure sensitive labels on either paper or PET liners. Liner selection is often driven by your application equipment or company preference.

Sustainable Options

All three layers of a pressure sensitive label have recycled or sustainable options including FSC-certified or recycled face sheets, compostable or PET recyclable adhesives, and silicone-free or recycled liners.

Based on your product’s needs, our label specialists guide you in choosing the best label materials for your project. During our discovery meeting we will discuss factors such as container type, application requirements, use environment, aesthetic goals, sustainable options and cost. Together we will find the best face sheet, adhesive and liner combination for your project.

Specialty Inks & Coatings

Our 12 color, 100% inline manufacturing process allows for cost-effective additions of specialty inks, coatings and lamination. Custom design options for pressure sensitive labels are virtually endless.

Specialty Inks

The vibrancy of our UV inks can be enhanced by the addition of screen inks or specialty inks such as metalure and pearlescent. Some of our most popular options can be found in our specialty printing techniques.

Finish Options

Self-adhesive labels are finished and protected with either varnish or a laminate. Standard offerings are gloss, matte, satin and textured. Finishing options to differentiate your label include patterned, holographic, and cast and cure coatings and laminates, which can come in a variety of finishes and patterns.

Durability

UV inks are waterproof and chemical resistant. Our inks will stand up to some of the harshest use and application environments.

Let our specialists assist you in selecting or creating custom combinations that meet both the design and functional goals of your project. Our customer service team takes pride in offering specialty ink and coating options to achieve the look you're seeking for your pressure-sensitive labels and market presence.

Specialty Constructions

Q-Clear

Q-Clear is our proprietary solution designed to create stunning 3-D effects on clear containers, providing a unique visual impact that enhances brand recognition. This innovative feature offers:

• Enhanced Visual Appeal: Q-Clear labels add depth and dimension to your packaging, making your product stand out on the shelf.
• Versatile Application: Use Q-Clear as a back label to create an intriguing layered effect or combine it with a clear front label for an all-around impressive look.
• Brand Differentiation: The 3-D effects achieved with Q-Clear help differentiate your product from competitors, providing a premium appearance that attracts consumers.

No Label Look

Achieve the sleek, seamless appearance of direct screen printing on your bottles without the associated risks and costs. The No Label Look offers:

• High-End Aesthetic: Creates the illusion that graphics and text are printed directly on the container, giving a clean and modern appearance.
• Inventory Management: Avoid the risk of obsolete inventory associated with pre-printed containers. Labels can be produced as needed, reducing waste and costs.
• Flexibility and Versatility: Ideal for various container shapes and sizes, the No Label Look maintains a consistent brand presentation across different products.

Promotional Items

Promotional pressure sensitive labels can be a powerful tool for marketing and branding efforts. They can be used to attract consumers, boost sales, and build brand loyalty. Marketers often select:

• Coupons and Offers: Integrate special offers, discounts, and seasonal promotions directly into your product packaging to encourage repeat purchases.
• Event Marketing: Custom labels for promotional products and giveaways at events, trade shows, and exhibitions to reinforce brand visibility.
• Cross-Marketing: Utilize labels that promote complementary products or services, encouraging consumers to explore more of your offerings.
• Limited Editions and Seasonal Products: Highlight limited edition or seasonal products with unique, eye-catching labels to create a sense of urgency and exclusivity.

These specialized features, Q-Clear and the No Label Look, provide innovative solutions to elevate your product packaging, ensuring it captures consumer attention and reinforces your brand's premium quality.

Industries Served

Pressure sensitive labels (PS labels) are suitable for a wide range of product label applications and industries. Their adaptability and customization make them an ideal choice for premium packaging. Common industries we serve are:

• Agrochemical: Tailored for products such as fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides, these labels are built to endure exposure to sunlight, moisture, and chemicals.
• Food & Beverage: Ideal for labeling bottles, cans, jars, and packaging, providing essential information such as ingredients, nutritional facts, and branding.
• Personal & Healthcare: Perfect for high-end cosmetic and skincare products, offering options like the No Label Look for a sleek, premium appearance.
• Home & Garden: Labels that resist water, chemicals, and wear, ensuring they remain intact and legible on products like detergents and disinfectants.
• Automotive and Specialty Chemicals: Designed to relay pertinent information while keeping an aesthetically appealing design, these labels are for products like paints, industrial coatings, and other products bought at hardware stores.

FAQs

1. How do Pressure Sensitive Labels work?

a. PS labels adhere to surfaces using pressure. The release liner is removed, and the label is pressed onto the container, allowing the adhesive to securely attach the label to the surface.

2. What printing capabilities does QAL offer?

a. Color Printing: Up to 12 colors.

b. Printing Techniques: Flexographic, letterpress, screen printing, and flexo-screen combination.

c. Finishing Options: Finished roll-to-roll or roll-to-sheet.

d. Size Range: Labels can range from a minimum size of 1/8” x 1/8” to a maximum size of 15” x 32”.

3. Can QAL design my pressure sensitive labels for me?

a. Our knowledgeable label specialists can assist you in refining your packaging design and provide expert knowledge & solutions to ensure a great-looking product! Ask us how we could help when you request a quote.

4. How can I get in touch for more information or to start a project?

a. Contact our team via phone, email, or through our website's contact us form to discuss your needs and get started on your pressure sensitive label project.

Begin Converting Your Custom Pressure Sensitive Labels with QAL

Are you ready to begin the label project with QAL? Share your ideas with our dedicated customer service team and learn more about how we can supply high-quality label solutions for your products.