Choosing a fold or straight cut for labels

Why are there different label folds?

Woven labels are almost always folded because folding is the easiest way to hide the back of a weave. Woven labels have two sides: the finished front, where they should be seen, and the rough back, where any tangled structural threads can be seen. Usually, you don’t want the consumer to see the back of the braided label, so you can fold it up (a standard ring-folded label, for example), or you can put some kind of backing material on the back (a border label, for example).

What is a straight cut label?

This type of cut is usually used when labels are sewn onto clothing. It can be sewn on one side to form two opposite sides or sewn on four sides. In this case, we had to use more space outside of the design as seams on the clothes. Straight cut can also be used as a loop fold where you meet the label at both ends and sew it over the seam of the garment.

A straight-cut label with no folds. The edges of this style are sealed so the label can be sewn directly onto your item as-is. This basic shape is perfect for anyone looking for labels that are needed for a variety of different applications, or for anyone wanting to add an adhesive, iron-on backing to their labels.

What is a hot cut label?

Fuse Cut (Hot Cut) – A heated and pressure-based process used to cut into polyester based threads, where the threads curl back because of the applied heat, preventing the threads to fray. Centerfold (Double Fold) – Woven or Printed label folded from the center, horizontally or vertically.

What is a end fold label?

An end-folded left/right label is a straight-cut label shape with folded edges on both the left and right sides. This folding type is suitable for landscape-oriented label designs such as brand names and logos. These creases form a softer edge and are often added to the edges that will be sewn together.

What is a centerfold label?

The center fold label is a simple rectangular label folded in the middle to create two sides of a label. This is a very popular tag with a large usable surface area. This is a good option for multi-purpose labels, where you can write your brand name on one side and fabric ingredients or washing instructions on the other. The center fold label should be sewn at the seam so that the two rough edges at the top are sewn together, so you’ll usually find them at the side seam, back collar or back belt.

What is a Mitre label?

Mitre label ends are folded at a 45 degree angle and the label is sewn onto the garment via the folded tabs. It is perfect for soft garments that have lots of movement, such as dresses and children’s clothing. It allows the garment to be hung and is usually sown into the neck. 

What is a Manhattan label?

The Manhattan book fold is a more traditional fold that is less popular due to its increased weight. It is similar to the loop fold but also has an edge at the top that covers the area that is usually sewn within the seams. This fold is a by-product of older label cutting techniques that were less precise and the loop fold is now the industry standard. 

Choosing the right label fold

All of these labels folds are great choices and have been proven for decades.

The information needed on the label (logo, brand name, web address, etc.) often determines the shape of the label — square, vertical, or horizontal. Similarly, consider where and how you want to sew your label onto your clothing or product.

If you are still unsure or would like to learn more about how we can help you and produce high quality labels for your brand, please visit Alin@ksthllabels.com to contact us and we will provide a free consultation.