How to Make Fabric Labels at Home – (In 2024)

Last Updated on December 31, 2023

Greetings, crafters! Teresia is here to share an exciting tutorial on how to create your own fabric labels at home. Here, we’ll explore a tried-and-tested method for making unique and washable labels that will add a personalized touch to your sewing projects.

How to Make Fabric Labels at Home

Highlights:

  • Make your own fabric labels at home to add a personal touch to your sewing projects.
  • Learn how to make your labels washable and sturdy to withstand the test of time.
  • Heat transfer paper, scissors, and an iron are all you need to create professional-looking labels.
  • Discover an additional tip for creating one-of-a-kind bespoke labels, ideal for special projects or gifts.
  •  Use standard tools such as Microsoft Word and an inkjet printer to complete the simple procedures indicated in the article.

How to Make Fabric Labels at Home

How to Make Fabric Labels at Home

Create your own fabric labels at home using heat transfer paper, a computer with a publishing program, and an inkjet printer.

Simply design, print, and attach for personalized, washable labels that add a unique touch to your sewing projects.

So, let’s dive into the process and start crafting those one-of-a-kind labels!

Note: Some of the links on this page are affiliate links. This means I will receive a commission if you order a product through one of my links. I only recommend products I believe in and use myself. 

Materials Needed

  1. Heat transfer paper (glossy and suitable for inkjet printers)
  2. Wax paper or baking paper
  3. Cotton tape, twill tape, satin ribbon, or grosgrain ribbon
  4. Scissors
  5. Iron
  6. Heatproof surface
  7. Computer with a publishing program (e.g., Microsoft Word)
  8. Inkjet printer

Step 1: Set Up Your Labels

Set Up Your Labels
Set Up Your Labels

Begin by setting up your labels in a publishing program. Dominica recommends using Microsoft Word. Remember to either flip your labels horizontally within the document or use your printer settings to ensure they are printed back-to-front.

Step 2: Load Heat Transfer Paper

Load Heat Transfer Paper
Load Heat Transfer Paper

Insert the heat transfer paper into your inkjet printer and place it with the non-glossy side facing the printing direction. Double-check your printer settings to guarantee the correct orientation.

Step 3: Print Your Labels

Print Your Labels
Print Your Labels

Hit the print button, and watch as your labels are printed in reverse on the heat transfer paper. Allow the printed labels to dry for about a minute.

Step 4: Cut and Prepare Labels

Cut and Prepare Labels
Cut and Prepare Labels

Once dry, cut out your labels along the guidelines provided in your printed sheet. Test the fit on your chosen fabric or tape to ensure they align perfectly.

Step 5: Attach Labels to Fabric

Attach Labels to Fabric
Attach Labels to Fabric

Set up your heatproof surface with an iron on a cotton setting. Place your fabric or tape with the printed side facing down and carefully press the label, starting from the edge. Hold for three to four seconds and give it a final iron.

Step 6: Cool and Finish

How to Make Fabric Labels at Home
Make Fabric Labels

Wait for the label and fabric/tape to cool completely before removing the top cover of the heat transfer paper. For an extra finish, use wax paper with the wax side down and press it over the label once more.

Bonus: Custom One-Off Labels

Learn how to create custom one-off labels by printing onto plain paper first, then transferring the design onto a small piece of heat transfer paper using sticky tape. Cut and follow the same process as above.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You’ve successfully crafted your own fabric labels at home, adding a personal touch to your sewing projects.

Feel free to experiment with different materials and designs to make each label truly unique. If you found this tutorial helpful, remember to leave a comment with your experiences.

Ask any Question Here!