Label Printing Glossary

• ADHESIVE TYPE There are many different variations of label adhesives relating mainly to climatic conditions, but the two main characteristics are "permanent" and "removable".
• BARCODE There are many types of specialized barcodes, but the most common in North America is the UPC-a barcode. It is a 12 digit code consisting of a single digit series number, five digit manufacturer code, a five digit product code and a check sum number that is created by the barcode software to confirm the code was produced correctly.BUTT CUT (see also DIE CUT) Refers to a process whereby a knife blade is used on the printing press to cut the labels to size. Butt cut labels have no space between them and have square corners. They also cannot have a
• FULL BLEED of ink other than a FLOOD COAT. Usually (but not always) butt cut labels are more economical than a comparitive die cut label. Butt cut labels are not commonly used with automatic labeling equipment.
• DIE CUT (see also BUTT CUT) Refers to the use of a die to cut the shape of the label. Die cut labels have a small space between them (usually 1/8"), making them ideal for automatic label application equipment. We have hundreds of dies on hand, so its likely we will have the size and shape of die needed. If a client requires a specific label size and/or a special shape not already in our die inventory, we will make a new die as required. There is additional cost for new dies.
• FLEXOGRAPHY This is the printing process used for most label printing. It uses a photopolymer printing plate that transfers the printed image directly onto the label stock. It prints onto a continuous roll of label stock (called a web) – finished labels are usually supplied in rolls.
• FLOOD COAT Refers to a full covering of ink applied to change the background colour of a label. It completely covers the label.
• FULL BLEED Refers to extra printed image extending beyond the die cut edge of the label – when the die finishes the edge of the label the image runs right off the label.
• LABEL STOCK Refers to the type of label material. The main types are: paper or plastic (either matte or gloss finish) metalized foil, and flourescent.
• LAMINATION a plastic film applied onto the printed label for protection and appearance.
• PANTONE MATCHING SYSTEM An international standard means of selecting, communicating, and matching colours.
• PRESSURE SENSITIVE Refers to the label with an adhesive pre-applied to it. There is normally a non-stick liner protecting the adhesive – the label is peeled from the liner and applied either by hand or machine and is sensitive to pressure. Commonly called a "peel and stick" label.
• PROCESS PRINTING Printing using four colours (cyan, magenta, yellow and black) which in combination form nearly a full range of colours.
• REGISTER The fitting of two or more print colours in exact alignment with each other.
• SPOT COLOUR Printing two or more colours that normally don't overlap or combine. Used when label needs only a limited number of colours, eg. red and black.