IML - In-Mould Labelling
General information
IML (In-Mould Labelling) is a decoration technique that takes place during the manufacturing of the item itself, not afterwards. A polypropylene label, printed in full colour and die-cut to size, is placed inside the mould before the molten plastic is injected. With the heat and pressure of the moulding process the label fuses with the wall of the product and becomes an integral part of it. The result is a graphic that does not peel, does not rub off and withstands repeated washing, because it is not applied on top of the surface but embedded in the material. Compared with traditional printing, IML offers photographic quality and very wide coverage, which can extend around the entire circumference of the item. Since label and product are made of the same material, the item also remains a recyclable mono-material. This technique is mainly used for plastic drinkware: reusable coffee cups, tumblers and polypropylene bottles
Main characteristics
✅ Advantages
- Photographic full colour graphics with gradients and fine details
- Decoration embedded in the wall: it does not peel or rub off
- High resistance to water, wear and repeated washing
- Very wide coverage, up to the entire circumference
- Smooth and hygienic surface, with no added thickness
- Mono-material: product and label remain recyclable together
❌ Disadvantages
- Available only for injection-moulded plastic items
- High minimum order quantities
- Longer production times than standard printing
- Set-up cost for label preparation
- Not suitable for small runs or urgent deliveries
Customisation and Production Times
IML customisation happens at the factory, during the moulding of the item, not after production. Each project requires the artwork to be prepared on the specific template of the product, the labels to be printed and die-cut, and finally the moulding itself. Overall lead times are therefore longer than post-production decoration, and the technique works best for orders planned in advance.
Colours and Materials
The label is printed in full colour process printing: multicolour logos, photographs and gradients are reproduced with high, uniform quality. The carrier is a polypropylene film, the same material as the body of the product: the decorated item therefore remains a mono-material, easier to recycle. The technique is reserved for injection-moulded plastic products, in particular drinkware.
Maximum Number of Colours
No limit: this is a full colour print. Gradients, photographs and complex designs are reproduced faithfully, with bright colours protected inside the wall of the product.
Printing Costs and Customisation
The cost includes a set-up fee for preparing and die-cutting the label, which mainly affects small quantities. On medium and large runs the unit cost becomes competitive, considering that the decoration covers a much larger area than traditional printing and requires no additional protective treatments.
Products suitable for IML printing
IML printing is the ideal choice for plastic drinkware: reusable coffee cups, tumblers, bottles and polypropylene travel mugs. It is perfect when you need a high-impact, full-coverage graphic that stands up to frequent washing and daily use.