You just developed a fantastic new liquid product in a uniquely shaped bottle. But how do you create labeling that perfectly fits the contours and curves? Odd-shaped containers require more than just slapping on a standard label. To make the right impression, you would actually need a custom approach. Here’s what to know about getting sleek, seamless labeling for your uniquely shaped bottles and containers.
Table of Contents
Choose the Right Label Material
When dealing with irregular surfaces, the label material you choose is critical. The material needs to be thin and flexible enough to adhere smoothly across curved or angled containers. Paper and film labels are the most common options for contoured containers. Paper offers a high-end look and feel, while films like polypropylene provide more flexibility and durability. Films work exceptionally well for textured or detailed surfaces. Consider the product inside the container as well. Will it be refrigerated or subjected to condensation? Is chemical or moisture resistance needed? The contents can influence ideal label properties.
Your product label company can source and test different materials on your actual bottle. This takes the guesswork out of picking the right material for flawless form-fitting. “We have customers send us samples of their containers so we can test a range of materials firsthand,” explains Jane Davis of ABC Label Co. “Seeing how the materials adhere and conform is invaluable for choosing the right one.” Having them apply material samples directly on the container reveals performance and appearance that can’t be assessed virtually. It’s best practice always to get physical test materials.
Consider Label Segmentation
Full-body shrink sleeve labels that cover the entire container are popular for curved shapes. However, large shrink sleeves have some drawbacks. They limit other labeling options, can wrinkle or bubble, and require a near-perfect container shape for proper fit. Segmented labels that only cover a portion of the container are often a better solution. Individual label panels can be precisely custom-shaped and placed to accentuate the container’s form. This approach is also more versatile. “We recommend segmented labels for oddly shaped bottles,” advises Davis. “You can highlight specific areas while leaving other parts of the container exposed. It allows for much more creativity and flexibility in labeling.”
Carefully choosing label segments lets you draw attention to the most appealing aspects of your container’s shape. Avoid covering interesting details or flourishes if they align with your branding. Panel placement can further emphasize dynamic shapes and lines. Aligned edges and seams between label segments can enhance contours and details. Mixing different materials between segments adds further interest through contrasting textures and finishes.
Leverage Digital Printing
Digital label printing unlocks superior quality and customization compared to conventional methods. Digital presses utilize variable data to print each label individually. This makes it economical to print ultra short runs and handle complex label shapes. Unlike analog techniques, digital printing doesn’t require label dies, plates or tooling. It eliminates setup costs and minimum order quantities. Labels can be rapidly changed and adapted without added expenses. This agility is invaluable for dialing in label segments and prototypes during development. Tweaks to shape, size, alignment and more can be tested iteratively until you achieve perfect form fitting.
“We print multiple label variations for our shaped bottle clients, so they can compare different segment configurations,” explains Davis. “It’s an iterative process, but digital printing makes this possible.” Variable data also enables sequentially numbered labels, unique codes, personalized messaging, and more. Digital takes customization to the next level. Advanced digital embellishment like hot foil stamping, specialty varnishes, and more can further increase premium appeal. Don’t be afraid to push boundaries and leverage these to differentiate your product.
Partner Closely With Your Label Provider
Creating perfect labels for irregular containers requires tight collaboration between you and your label provider. Communicate details about your container shape, product positioning, label goals, and anything that will help orient their design process. Provide images of the container from all angles along with physical samples if feasible. This gives designers a thorough visual understanding of the intricacies involved.
Be ready to review multiple rounds of label concepts and prototypes. Your feedback will help refine shapes, seams, alignments and form-factor. Don’t be afraid to request adjustments – the devil is in the details with shaped labeling. A great label partner will proactively ask questions and suggest ideas to help you achieve results. They’ll have expertise in label finishes, materials, effects and techniques to elevate your container. “We love collaborating closely with customers on shaped bottle projects,” says Jeff White of Custom Labels Inc. “There are always little tweaks needed to perfect the end result, but seeing their face light up when we nail it makes all the effort worthwhile.”
Consider 3D Modeling and Prototyping
Advanced product label companies utilize 3D modeling and prototyping capabilities for shaped labeling projects. This takes visualization and testing to the next level. Your container artwork is modeled in 3D to give a realistic virtual representation. This enables seeing how label placements and segments interact dimensionally with the container before going to print. The container artwork can be quickly adjusted to experiment with different label approaches. Photorealistic renderings and animations provide an in-depth preview to inform design decisions.
From the 3D model, physical prototypes can be 3D printed. These prototypes let you evaluate tangible samples that give vital tactile feedback on label forms. Prototyping identifies adhesive performance, ease of application, label stiffness, and other characteristics that impact real-world use. Refinements can be made based on learning from the prototypes. This 3D workflow brings incredible advantages for dialing in labeling for irregular containers and surfaces. The exceptional visualization, trial-and-error and physical samples it facilitates will lead you to the perfect end product.
Consider Textured Label Effects
For products wanting to emphasize a premium, bespoke feel, consider using textured label effects. This adds an extra dimension that enhances dimensional containers.Textures, like linen, leather and wood grain can reinforce product persona and convey craftsmanship. Embossing and debossing offer bold dimensionality. Specialty coatings like soft touch and metallic deliver tantalizing tactile effects. These textures draw attention to the label surface while complementing the shaped container. Consistent texture across label segments strengthens the custom appearance.
Other embellishment options like foil stamping, glass beads, holographic images, and more further increase perceived value. Don’t be afraid to push boundaries and combine techniques for truly unique results. “For high-end grooming products, we created a debossed leather texture effect that aligned with the bottle shape,” explains Davis. “It added a stunning premium touch that reinforced the brand image beautifully.”
Pick Label Colors and Finishes Carefully
Color, ink and finish selection deserves careful consideration for contoured containers. Colors should align with brand standards, but also complement the form. Darker colors and busier graphics can detract from the intricacies and contours you want to highlight. Lighter hues and minimalist designs tend to work better for accentuating shape. Gloss, matte and textured finishes should be chosen deliberately as well. Gloss inks add depth and draw the eye, while matte inks recede into the background. Combining gloss and matte areas guides focus. Be sure to request physical print samples from your label partner. Colors, finishes and effects require seeing actual printed output to fully evaluate the look and feel. Don’t rely on how things appear on screen.
Consider Location Markings
Clear location markings are important on shaped bottles to guide proper label application. This ensures segments align correctly during production. Subtle indicia can denote proper orientation and position. Registration marks define boundaries between label segments and gaps. They facilitate precision during application. For transparent labels, markings can be printed on an inner layer to be invisible to end consumers. This prevents any markings from detracting from the finished product. Work closely with your label provider to determine optimal location markings for your container and production approach.
Evaluate Label Application Options
There are several options for applying labels to irregular containers, each with pros and cons. Pressure-sensitive adhesive labels can flex well, but don’t offer full coverage on compound curves. Shrink sleeves provide full wrap capability, but risk bubbles without meticulous container shape. Roll-fed wrap labeling adapts to some curves, but can’t handle small diameters. Your product label company will recommend the best application method for your specific container. The right choice depends on factors like shape, size, label materials, production volumes and more. If your container has an especially unique form, custom label application machinery may be needed. Specialty application equipment exists for unusually shaped products. This custom equipment also ensures proper label placement and alignment. The applicator guides can be custom-machined to match your bottle profile. Investing in specialty application equipment is well worth it for complex shaped labeling projects with large production runs.
Leverage Extended Content Labels
Extended content labels (ECLs) present an interesting opportunity for shaped containers. ECLs expand traditional labels by wrapping around to secondary surfaces with additional information. For example, an ECL could start on the front, extend around the shoulder, and end on the back. This provides ample space for ingredient lists, instructions, promotions and more. ECLs work exceptionally well for accentuating shaped bottle contours. They can be segmented to curve seamlessly around corners and edges. The connections between segments enhance the flow.
This extended wrapping motion guides the eye across the form. It enables fluid storytelling that engages consumers. Unique information placement builds intrigue and interactivity. A skilled label provider can creatively implement ECLs to spotlight your bottle’s shape and details. The result is an immersive labeling experience with expanded real estate for messaging.
With the right label materials, printing technology, custom design, prototyping and embellishments, you can achieve perfect product labeling for uniquely shaped bottles and containers. Partner closely with an experienced label provider to bring your contoured container to life. With a collaborative approach and keen attention to detail, your shaped container can make a lasting sensory impression that captivates consumers.
0