How to Make Labels That Are Functional and Beautiful

Bring your imagination to life with Wixel AI generated images →

Labels are everywhere—on products, packages, jars, event invitations and even kids' school supplies. Labels aren’t just practical—they’re an opportunity to make a statement. From product packaging and event invitations to organizing your pantry or crafting for fun, the right label can have a major impact. For a small business owner looking to boost your branding or a crafter working on a weekend project, understanding how to create labels with strong graphic design elements will open up endless possibilities.

This article will walk you through every step of the process—from designing your label to printing it and choosing the right type. By the end, you'll have all the tools and knowledge you need to create beautiful labels with confidence in your print design.

01. Define your label’s purpose

The first step in creating a great label is identifying its purpose. What will this label be used for? Is it meant to inform, promote, organize or something else entirely? Having clarity about its role will guide every design decision—from format to fonts.

For instance, if you’re creating product labels for your handmade candles, they might need important details like the scent, weight and any safety instructions. On the other hand, if it’s an address label for a wedding invitation, aesthetics might take precedence over functionality. Think about what main purpose your label serves and try summing it up in one sentence. Having this clarity ensures your design aligns with your marketing strategy and stays focused and cohesive.

02. Select a design software

To bring your label design to life, use a design tool like Wixel that caters to all skill levels. Make sure it has the necessary features and tools for label design. This includes templates, grids, color palettes and typography options. It's also helpful to have access to printing specifications and guidelines to ensure your final design is print-ready.

Transform your ideas into stunning visuals with our AI image generator. Whether it's for a project, your business or just for fun—simply describe your vision and let AI turn it into an eye-catching image in seconds.

Try Wixel

03. Measure your space

Labels can come in all shapes and sizes—which means your available canvas will directly influence your design. Start by considering the dimensions. Are you designing for a narrow bottle, a wide box or a flat sheet? Take precise measurements of the surface where the label will go.

Beyond size, don’t forget the real-world environment. For example, will your label be exposed to moisture, handled frequently or displayed under bright lights? These environmental factors can impact the materials you choose, whether it’s glossy vs. matte finishes or waterproof adhesives.

04. Decide your label shape

The shape of your label plays a key role in how your design will look and feel. For example, rectangular labels are versatile and practical, great for products and mailing. Circular labels are more playful and stylish, ideal for event favors or handmade jars. There’s also custom shapes to consider, like die-cut designs tailored to your product.

When selecting a shape, think back to your label’s purpose and the canvas it’s meant for. A dramatic angular design works well for modern brands, while softer rounded edges might suit organic or family-oriented products. Keep in mind that unconventional shapes might be more expensive to print.

05. Pick a color palette

Colors do a lot of heavy lifting in design. They evoke emotion, attract attention and even influence decision-making. Understanding color theory can help you choose a palette that reflects your label’s purpose while staying aligned with any existing branding.

For example, a minimalist skincare product might use clean, neutral tones like white, beige and soft green to convey purity and calmness. A kids’ party label, on the other hand, will benefit from a brighter, bolder palette.

Use tools like color wheels to find complementary combinations or explore a color palette generator for ready-made palettes. If you aren’t sure, stick to 2–3 base colors plus neutrals to keep the design cohesive.

06. Choose the right font

Typography serves as the voice of your design. Is your label fun and quirky? Sleek and modern? Whimsical and playful? Start by exploring font styles that match these vibes.

Select a primary font for headlines or key information and a secondary one for supporting details. For example, pairing a script font with a sans-serif can balance elegance with readability.

Remember to prioritize legibility. Your labels might be viewed from a distance or in less-than-ideal lighting. Test your fonts at different sizes, ensuring they’re clear and easy to read.

Discover more about what is typography and how it can elevate your label designs.

07. Add impactful text

The words on your label are just as important as the visuals. Keep the information concise and to the point. Try to include only the most relevant details while steering clear of clutter.

If your label needs to explain a product, highlight its most attractive features. Add descriptors like “locally sourced,” “artisan,” or “handcrafted” to create a narrative. For an event label, consider including a date, occasion or special phrase that adds a personal touch.

Tone matters too. Think about how your audience will perceive the text. Should it be formal and professional? Warm and inviting? Write accordingly.

08. Incorporate imagery and branding

Your label design is a golden opportunity to build recognition for your brand or theme. If this label represents a product, include your logo and brand colors to make it unmistakably yours. For event labels, incorporate visual elements like icons, patterns or illustrations that follow the overall theme.

Be mindful of placement. A busy label loses its charm, so use imagery sparingly to support the text rather than overwhelm it. Simple lines, subtle textures or even white space can elevate your label to look polished and professional. When adding a logo, ensure it’s high-resolution so it looks crisp when printed.

Remember to maintain clarity by leaving space between your text and graphics. Both elements should work together to make your design standout.

09. Test your label design

Before you hit “finalize,” take some time to test your label thoroughly. Print a rough version at home to get a true sense of how it will look in the real world. Place it on the intended surface and check for alignment, proportions and clarity.

Does the label communicate all the key information? Are the colors vibrant in print? Do the fonts stay readable? Testing allows you to catch sneaky mistakes that might not show on screen.

10. Finalize and download the file

Once you’re happy with the digital design, it’s time to get it ready for production. Export your file in the appropriate format, ensuring it meets the specs of your chosen printer. Common formats include PDF for professional-quality printing or PNG for smaller batches. Set the resolution to at least 300 DPI for optimal detail.

Double-check for errors one last time. Once downloaded, you’ll have a file ready to send off—or print yourself, for smaller runs.

Tips to print your labels

Now that your label design is complete, it's time to bring it to life through printing. But before you hit the print button, there are a few things to consider in order to ensure the best quality and results for your labels.

Choose the right printer

The type of printer you use will greatly impact the final outcome of your labels. If you're only printing a small batch of labels at home or for personal use, a standard inkjet or laser printer may suffice. However, if you're planning on producing larger quantities or need professional-quality results, consider using a commercial printing service with specialized equipment for label printing.

Consider paper and material options

The type of paper or material you use for your labels will also affect the final look and feel. Glossy or matte finishes, textured papers and vinyl materials are all popular options for labels. Consider the durability and usage of your labels when selecting a material. For example, if they will be used on products that may come in contact with water, a waterproof material may be necessary.

Test print settings

Before printing your entire batch of labels, it's always a good idea to do a test print first on regular paper to ensure alignment, colors and text are all as intended. This allows you to make any necessary adjustments before wasting expensive label paper or materials. Also, make sure to select the highest print quality or resolution for optimal results.

Cut/trim labels carefully

Use a sharp pair of scissors or a paper cutter for precise cuts. If using sticker paper, try to avoid getting any air bubbles under the label when applying it onto products.

Store properly

To ensure the longevity of your labels, store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. This will prevent any fading or warping over time.

Types of labels

Labels come in many forms and choosing the right one depends on your specific needs. Here are the most common types of labels:

Product labels: Found on packaging to describe and market items.
Event labels: Created for occasions like weddings, birthdays and conferences. They often double as keepsakes.
Shipping labels: Essential for e-commerce, ensuring packages reach the right destination.
Organizational labels: Perfect for home and office, helping organize supplies, jars and containers.
Craft labelsIdeal for DIY projects and preserving homemade goods, such as jams or candles.

Label dimensions

When choosing dimensions, it’s important to select sizes that match your project's requirements. By understanding your label's application, you can avoid errors and ensure a proper fit. Here are some examples of standard label sizes:

Small labels (2 x 1 inches) – Great for jars, small bottles or price tags.
Medium labels (3 x 4 inches) – Ideal for product packaging or organizational purposes.
Large labels (4 x 6 inches) – Suitable for shipping labels and larger surfaces.

Additional design projects to explore:

How to make a label FAQ

Can I print my labels at home?

Yes. With the right label paper and printer, you can achieve professional results at home. Just ensure your printer settings are optimized for the best output.

How to make labels that are functional and beautiful