"Purchasing the Right Adhesive Labels"

Q U E S T I O N
My firm recently moved and rather than reprint our brochures, we chose to put labels over the old address. We ordered labels and stuck them on the brochures. Afterwards, we noticed that the information beneath the label was still visible. I’m trying to get a refund on the crummy labels, but now our brochures look bad. Any ideas?

A N S W E R
Instead of being poorly made, your labels are probably just not suited for your intended purpose. There are many types of label stocks (the actual substrate that the label is printed on - paper, vinyl, foil, polyester, etc.) and adhesives. “Opaque” adhesive works beautifully if you’re trying to cover up information. As far as a refund goes - our vendors are only as capable as we empower them to be. If your vendor didn’t know what you were going to do with the labels, they couldn’t have recommended this solution. 

As far as fixing your brochures...if you order same-size labels, it’ll be a nightmare trying to line them up with the first batch. If you order slightly larger labels, you’ll see the outline of the smaller label underneath. I think I’d choose the latter option, with opaque adhesive this time! 

As a general rule, when ordering labels, be sure to consider how and where the labels will be used, as well as how long you want the label to last (life expectancy). There are many specialty adhesives and stocks that maintain their integrity in freezing or “frying” temperatures, or when exposed to chemicals and other extreme conditions. Will the label be subject to abrasion (will it brush up against things)? Should it be protected with varnish, UV coating or laminate? If it is going to be used outside, be sure the inks are UV-resistant and made for the great outdoors!