Design Tips to Maximise Your Labels' Exposure

Why do some product labels seem to jump out at you while others are hardly noticeable? Some characteristics, combined with various psychological factors, can easily determine whether your label catches someone's attention or gets lost in a sea of similar products. Studies have shown that the most successful of all product labels tend to share some very simple, common attributes. Stick with us as we explain what they are and how you can use them to your advantage.

Font Choice

Fonts are a crucial piece of the puzzle when creating a product label. They are the voice of your label, acting as the first line of communication during a customer's perception process. It's on them to relay your product's most important information. Here are some things to keep in mind as you design your packaging:

• Limit the number of fonts you use. Don't use any more than two fonts on a product label. Too many fonts dilute the message and make it difficult for a potential customer to read.
• Make sure the font size is readable. Too large of a font may overwhelm the label and consequently your product. Too small of a font size almost guarantees the information will be overlooked. This requires a search for the perfect balance of size.
• Use a font that relates to both the product and your brand. If your product is a sophisticated, you want to use a more refined font. If it's a children's snack, consider one that's more playful or fun.

Image Use

An image or logo gives your customer a quick and familiar way to differentiate your product. A properly positioned image can both identify what your product is and make your customers' decision process even easier.

• Incorporate your brand in your images. All great companies do this and you should too. Branding your product labels is very important for building relationships between your product and a customer. Make sure you keep the style consistent. If your brand uses illustrations, don't go putting photographs on your product packaging.
• Use images to convey characteristics of your product. Think about a lollipop with a picture of a cherry on it, almost instantly you know what flavor it is. Make associations between your product and its distinctive traits, so customers can easily seek out things they need, want, or can relate to.

Material Preference

A label material is an easy upgrade to make and one that can add a polished look to your label. Something unique or eye-catching cam add another dimension to your product.

• Stop doing what everyone else is. Take a look around next time you're surrounded by products — many of them are dull and ordinary, right? What does it say about your product if standard white paper is the best foot you can put forwards? Using different materials, such as brown kraft or foil, can play an important role in the interaction with your product and a potential customer. Instill more confidence in your consumers by going with a nicer label. Wondering what else is out there? Browse our label materials and find out!
• Add textures and distinction. Engage with consumers on more than a visual level. Appeal to their sense of touch or intrigue them with something new and innovative.

Colour Considerations

The colours you use when creating a product label are very important to the way your product is received in the marketplace.

• Utilise your brand colours. Make sure to incorporate your brands colours into your product label. The more easily identifiable your products are with your brand, the more likely you are to increase brand recognition and repeat customers.
• Use vibrant colours. The use of vivid colours in your label, such as bright reds and yellows, will help differentiate your product label. Can't decide how to incorporate them into your design? Use them as the background colour instead with our fluorescent labels or colour labels.

With these common practises, making a professional product label is simple and an easy do-it-yourself project that can save you time and money. By designing a label on your own, you have the power and perspective that no outside designer can see. Now that you have the tools and tips for creating product labels that get noticed, get out there and test your new labels!