How To: Machine-Free Product Labeling

Improvised Non-Mechanical Label "Machine"

Uneven labels drive me nuts (almost as much as labeling by hand drives me nuts). I used to try all kinds of methods of marking my containers so that the labels would be applied evenly, to no avail. Once we started offering Private Label services through our sister company, AliMar Labs, we decided we needed to create a simple, inexpensive method to easily and accurately label small-run orders. Since most printers sell short run labels as "crack & peel" stickers or on sheets, it isn't possible to use a label machine to apply them. Additionally, since most containers are round or curved, labeling becomes a real pain as your containers roll all over the place and both hands are stuck to the label. I have been seen many times balancing a bottle between elbows with both hands attempting to affix the label...it is not a pretty sight!

Our staff had a powwow and decided we needed to create a tray with grooves large enough to hold a container securely so both hands could be free to label. Our contraption needed to be lightweight and portable so it could be stowed away when not in use. Additionally, it needed built-in accuracy to provide a line of sight for where the label needed to line up each time.

Enter the Wilton Wave Flower Former and a trusty rubber band. For less than $10 you can also label bottles and jars efficiently and accurately by hand. Thanks to Tammy at MilkandCookeez.com for urging me to blog about this super simple and cheap tool that will become indispensable should you choose to use it!

Heather, hand labeling 16oz Private Label Hand Soap

Do you have an indispensible, inexpensive labeling tip you'd like to share? We'd love to hear about it!

Allison B. Kontur

www.BathBodySupply.com