Technical Specifications: Reel Labels/Stickers

Make product labelling and packaging easier with custom stickers supplied on a roll. Reel labels are ideal for businesses that need labels organised in a continuous format for efficient application. Choose from a selection of shapes, sizes, materials and reel settings to suit your requirements.

What shapes and sizes are available?

Reel labels are available in circular, square, rectangular and custom sizes, depending on the options selected.

Circular labels

Square labels

Rectangular labels

The availability of each size depends on the selected shape, material and reel configuration. Check the options on the instantprint Stickers & Labels page to confirm which sizes can be ordered on a reel.

What materials are available?

Depending on the product selected, reel labels may be available in the following materials:

78gsm Semi-Gloss Paper

A smooth, semi-gloss paper that helps colours stand out. Suitable for everyday product labelling and packaging.

70gsm Uncoated Smooth Paper

A natural-looking paper with a smooth, uncoated finish.

90gsm Premium Textured Paper

A tactile paper with a distinctive hammered texture, ideal for premium product branding.

White Polypropylene

A plastic-based material with a smooth white finish, suitable for selected applications where resistance to moisture and handling is useful.

Transparent Polypropylene

A clear material that creates a no-label appearance on suitable packaging.

Silver Polypropylene

A metallic-finish material designed to give product labels and packaging extra impact.

Material availability depends on the selected shape, size, application method and finish.

How are reel labels supplied?

Reel labels are supplied on a continuous roll, with individual labels cut and positioned on a backing liner. This format keeps labels organised and ready for application.

The number of labels per reel depends on the label dimensions, shape and order quantity. Reel layouts are configured according to the selected product options.

Can reel labels be used with labelling machines?

Reel labels can be available for hand application or machine application, depending on the configuration selected.

If you intend to use a labelling machine, check the product options carefully before ordering. The reel's winding direction, label spacing and leading edge can affect compatibility with your equipment.

What do leading edge and winding direction mean?

Leading edge describes the edge of the label that feeds out first from the reel. Available options include top-edge, bottom-edge, left-edge and right-edge leading, depending on the product.

Winding direction describes how the labels are wound around the roll. Options may include inside-wound or outside-wound reels.

Choose the settings required by your application process. If you're using a machine, check its specifications before placing your order.

What is the sticker gap?

The sticker gap is the space between individual labels on the backing material.

Available gap settings may include 2mm to 10mm, depending on the product configuration. Choose a gap compatible with your intended application method, particularly if the labels will be applied using machinery.

What printing process is used?

Custom stickers and labels are printed using an HP Indigo 6K+ Digital Press and then laser-cut using specialist finishing equipment. This process produces clear text, detailed designs and consistent printed results.

How should I prepare my artwork?

For the best results:

• Supply artwork at the correct finished label size.

• Use 300dpi resolution and CMYK colour mode.

• Supply a PDF with fonts embedded or outlined.

• Follow the product template for bleed and safe areas.

• Keep important text and logos away from cut lines.

• Review your proof carefully before approving it.

If your labels will be machine-applied, ensure the artwork and label layout meet your operational requirements.

How should I store reel labels?

• Keep reels in their original packaging until needed.

• Store them in a cool, dry environment.

• Protect them from dust, moisture and direct sunlight.

• Avoid extreme temperatures that may affect the adhesive.

• Follow the material's application guidance.

Are reel labels recyclable?

Recyclability depends on the label face material, adhesive and release liner. Paper labels and polypropylene labels may have different recycling options.

Check local recycling guidance before disposal, as not all sticker materials or release liners can be recycled through standard household collections.

Where can I order reel labels?

Visit instantprint Stickers & Labels, select the reel-label format and configure your preferred shape, size, material and quantity. Check the application method, leading edge, gap and winding options before adding the product to your basket.

Need help choosing reel labels?

Our Live Chat Assistant is the quickest and easiest way to get help with product options or artwork setup.