Introduction
Choosing the right label material is essential when printing your own labels with an inkjet roll printer. The material you select influences not just the durability and feel of your label, but also how your design appears once printed. Inkjet ink is water-based and translucent, which means the color and texture of the label stock can dramatically impact the final look. This guide focuses specifically on materials compatible with popular inkjet roll printers (such as Afinia Label, Epson, Astronova, and Primera), helping you make the best choice for your application and needs.
Top 4 Most Common Inkjet Label Materials
White Matte Paper
White matte paper is a versatile and economical choice for inkjet label printing. It has a smooth, non-glossy finish that provides a clean, professional appearance. Because of its absorbent surface, ink dries quickly and reduces smudging, making it ideal for high-speed printing. This paper stock handles text and barcodes especially well, and is often used in logistics and warehousing environments.
Use Cases: Shipping labels, product identification, barcodes, general-purpose labeling, and office organization.
Strengths: Cost-effective, easy to write on with pens or markers, good print clarity, fast drying times, works well for large label batches.
Limitations: Not resistant to moisture or oils, and not suitable for products that will be exposed to wet environments. Colors may appear softer or more muted than on glossy or synthetic alternatives.
Glossy Paper
Glossy paper has a shiny, polished finish that enhances the visual appeal of your printed labels. This type of material reflects light, making colors appear more vibrant and saturated. It’s a go-to choice for businesses looking to create attractive product packaging that catches the eye on store shelves.
Use Cases: Retail product labels, promotional stickers, jar or candle labels, small-batch product packaging.
Strengths: High color vibrancy, crisp image reproduction, smooth and professional finish. Great for detailed graphics or photographic elements.
Limitations: More prone to smudging if handled before ink fully dries. It’s also less resistant to moisture than synthetic materials, making it less suitable for cold or wet environments. Not ideal if handwritten notes are needed.
White Matte Polypropylene (Synthetic Film)
White matte polypropylene (BOPP) is a synthetic film that combines a soft, paper-like finish with excellent durability. It is more resistant to tearing, water, and smudging than paper-based stocks. This makes it an ideal solution for applications where labels may be handled frequently or exposed to mild environmental stress.
Use Cases: Cosmetic and toiletry labels, wellness and health products, supplement bottles, refrigerated goods, and light industrial labeling.
Strengths: Water-resistant, tear-resistant, flexible, excellent ink adhesion, and compatible with pigment-based inkjet printers. Offers a subdued, modern look while maintaining performance.
Limitations: More expensive than paper options. The matte finish doesn’t provide the same level of visual vibrancy as gloss, so it may not be the best choice if high-impact color is needed.
Glossy Polypropylene (Synthetic Film)
Glossy polypropylene (BOPP) offers the best of both worlds—high durability and eye-catching appearance. With its slick surface and strong resistance to water, smudging, and tearing, this material is often used for labels that must endure exposure to moisture or rough handling while maintaining a polished look.
Use Cases: Beverage bottles, refrigerated or frozen foods, bath and body products, luxury cosmetics, and outdoor product labeling.
Strengths: Excellent moisture and abrasion resistance, high-gloss shine, rich color saturation, strong visual appeal. Durable enough for commercial packaging.
Limitations: Typically costs more than paper labels. Ink may take longer to dry, so caution is needed to avoid smearing during handling. Not suitable for labels that require handwriting.
Specialty or High-End Materials
Satin BOPP
Satin BOPP has a smooth, semi-gloss finish that strikes a balance between matte and glossy. It delivers a more refined look, with subtle light reflection that enhances printed designs without appearing overly shiny. Ideal for premium branding applications where subtle elegance is key.
Use Cases: Boutique product packaging, cosmetic labels, small-batch gourmet foods, and premium retail items.
Strengths: Water-resistant, smooth feel, high-end aesthetic, softer sheen than full gloss.
Estate or Linen Textured Paper
This paper features a tactile, textured finish reminiscent of handcrafted stationery. It’s often white or cream-colored and adds a luxurious, artisanal touch to product labels. It’s not typically water-resistant but is chosen for its visual and textural charm.
Use Cases: Wine bottles, olive oils, handmade products, gourmet goods, artisanal crafts.
Strengths: Upscale feel, supports foil stamping and embossing, enhances brand storytelling.
Matte Kimdura
Originally designed for industrial and chemical labeling, Matte Kimdura is a highly durable synthetic material that holds up well to harsh conditions. While it’s BS5609-compliant for toner printers, many pigment-based inkjet printers also yield strong results. Great for heavy-duty labeling needs.
Use Cases: Drum labels, outdoor equipment, compliance labeling, lab samples.
Strengths: Extremely durable, chemical-resistant, water-resistant, long-lasting print.
Kraft Paper
Kraft paper delivers a rustic, earthy appearance that aligns well with eco-conscious branding. The brown color and uncoated finish add natural character, though it should be noted that inkjet inks may appear darker or more blended due to the material color.
Use Cases: Handmade goods, natural foods, sustainable products, and minimalist packaging.
Strengths: Natural look, environmentally friendly feel, good print contrast for dark inks.
Important Note About Inkjet Transparency
Inkjet inks are water-based and naturally translucent, meaning they don’t fully block out the background of the label material. On non-white stocks—such as kraft paper, clear films, or holographic labels—the ink will blend with the background, producing a “stained glass” effect. This can either enhance or diminish your design depending on your intentions.
Because of this, it’s essential to account for the base color and texture of your label stock when designing. Light ink colors printed on dark materials may appear washed out or nearly invisible. For clear, vibrant and opaque colors on non-white darker materials, toner-based printing is often a better option. Toner sits on top of the label surface and remains opaque, allowing for more vivid contrast regardless of the background.
Conclusion & Material Selection Tips
When choosing a label material for your inkjet roll printer, it’s important to match your selection to your product’s needs and your design’s intent:
- Choose matte paper for cost-effective, everyday labeling tasks. It’s an excellent choice for office use, product organization, or shipping labels where budget matters and high visual impact isn’t required. Its fast-drying surface ensures minimal smudging, making it a reliable option for high-volume printing.
- Opt for glossy paper when presentation matters and vibrant color is desired. Glossy paper enhances full-color graphics and detailed designs, making it perfect for retail packaging or promotional stickers. The shiny finish grabs attention and can make your product stand out on shelves.
- Select polypropylene films when durability or water-resistance is needed. These synthetic materials withstand exposure to moisture, abrasion, and handling, making them ideal for food, beverage, cosmetic, and outdoor product labeling. They’re especially useful in refrigerated or humid environments.
- Use kraft or estate paper to convey a premium or handcrafted feel. These materials offer a unique tactile experience and an upscale or rustic appearance that appeals to consumers looking for authenticity. Ideal for artisanal goods, natural products, or brands emphasizing sustainability.
Hopefully this guide has helped steer you in the right direction! Browse our full range of inkjet-compatible materials to find the perfect match for your product and brand. Please feel free to contact us with any questions, we are happy to help!