Custom Label
General information
The custom label is a branding technique that does not print directly onto the product, but applies a dedicated element made with the customer artwork: a printed patch with an embroidered border, a leather-effect PU label with debossed branding, or a printed label to be sewn or glued on. The label is produced separately and then fixed to the item by sewing, heat-sealing or adhesive, in a predefined position of the model. This approach is widely used on textile products and accessories, where direct printing performs poorly on irregular surfaces or soft materials: the result is a refined detail, similar to branded garments, that conveys quality and care. PU labels and patches with embroidered borders also offer a tactile, three-dimensional effect that flat printing cannot replicate
Main characteristics
✅ Advantages
- Premium branded-garment effect
- Excellent results on fabrics where direct printing is difficult (fleece, knits, technical fabrics)
- Good resistance to washing and daily use
- Tactile effect: leather-look PU, embroidered borders
- Sharp details even on irregular surfaces
❌ Disadvantages
- Customisation area limited to the size of the label
- Higher cost per piece than simple printing
- Application positions predefined by the model
- Shapes and formats depend on the chosen item
Customisation and Production Times
The process involves two stages: producing the label with the customer artwork and applying it to the item by sewing or heat-sealing. Lead times are in line with textile customisations and depend on the type of label chosen and the quantities required.
Colours and Materials
Printed patches and labels reproduce full colour graphics, while leather-effect PU labels offer an elegant tone-on-tone branding. Materials range from fabric to polyurethane: the choice depends on the desired style and the destination product, typically garments and textile accessories.
Maximum Number of Colours
On printed labels and patches there are no limits: the graphic is full colour, gradients included. The embroidered border uses solid colour threads, while PU labels rely on the relief of the branding rather than on colour.
Printing Costs and Customisation
The cost per piece is higher than a simple print, because it includes the production of the label and its manual application. In return you get a detail with a high perceived quality, which enhances the product and brings it closer to a branded garment.
Products suitable for custom labels
The technique is ideal for caps, backpacks, bags, blankets, fleece garments, gloves and textile accessories. It is the right choice when the surface of the product makes direct printing difficult or when a premium, tactile effect is desired.