How are Labels Attached to Clothes?
Labels are an essential part of Clothing, Providing Information about the brand, size, care instructions, and materials. There are several methods to attach labels to clothes, each suited to different types of garments and labels.
Here’s how labels are typically attached:
1. Sewing
- Top Stitching: The label is placed on the inside or outside of the garment, and the edges are sewn directly onto the fabric. This method is common for brand labels on the back of necklines or waistband areas.
- Edge Stitching: The label is attached by stitching along its edges, leaving the middle part of the label free. This method is often used for care labels or tags on the side seams.
- Loop Label: A label is folded in half and sewn into a seam, with the fold at the top, allowing the label to hang freely. This is commonly seen in neck labels.
- Hem Label: A small label is sewn into the hem of the garment, often for branding or size tags.
2. Heat Transfer
- Heat-Pressed Labels: A label is printed onto a special paper or film and then transferred to the garment using heat and pressure. The label bonds directly to the fabric, creating a smooth, tag less finish. This method is popular for care labels, brand logos, and size labels on casual wear, sportswear, and underwear.
- Iron-On Labels: Similar to heat-pressed labels but usually applied with a household iron. They are common in personalized clothing or children’s wear.
3. Adhesive Labels
- Sticky Back Labels: These labels have a self-adhesive backing that sticks to the fabric. They are generally temporary and used for size stickers or promotional tags. Not commonly used for permanent labels due to their potential to peel off.
- Heat-Seal Adhesive Labels: These labels have a special adhesive that activates with heat. Once heat is applied, the label sticks to the garment permanently. This method is used for high-quality brand or care labels, especially on delicate fabrics.
4. Embroidered Labels
- Direct Embroidery: The label information is directly embroidered onto the fabric of the garment. This is a permanent and durable method, often used for logos, brand names, or size indicators on premium or custom garments.
- Embroidered Patches: A label is created as an embroidered patch and then sewn or heat-sealed onto the garment. This method is common for branding on outerwear, uniforms, or high-end clothing.
5. Laser Printing
- Laser Cut and Printed Labels: Labels are laser cut and printed directly onto the fabric or a separate label piece, which is then sewn or heat-sealed onto the garment. This method is precise and durable, often used for branding or decorative labels.
6. Sonic Bonding
- Ultrasonic Label Attachment: A label is attached to the garment using ultrasonic sound waves, which melt the fibers together, creating a bond without the need for stitching. This method is used for attaching labels to synthetic fabrics and is common in activewear and seamless garments.
7. Snap-On or Button-On Labels
- Snap or Button Labels: Labels are attached using small snaps or buttons. This method allows the label to be easily removed or replaced, commonly used in workwear, children’s clothing, or garments where the label may need frequent changing (e.g., for laundering).
8. Velcro Labels
- Velcro-Attached Labels: Labels are attached using Velcro strips, allowing them to be removed and reattached as needed. This method is less common but used in specialized clothing where label information might change frequently.
9. Hang Tags
- Temporary Hang Tags: These are labels attached with string, plastic fasteners, or pins. They are typically used for pricing, branding, or promotional information and are removed before the garment is worn.
10. Bonding Tape
- Fusible Bonding Tape: Labels are attached using fusible bonding tape, which adheres the label to the garment with heat. This method is often used in mass production for attaching care labels or brand tags to fabrics that can tolerate heat.
Considerations:
- Type of Fabric: The method of attachment often depends on the fabric type. For example, heat transfer is suitable for smooth, synthetic fabrics, while sewing is preferred for heavier, natural fabrics.
- Label Material: The material of the label itself (e.g., woven, printed, embroidered) will also determine the best method of attachment.
- Durability Needs: Labels that need to withstand heavy wear or frequent washing, like those on sportswear, may require more secure attachment methods like sewing or heat sealing.
- Aesthetics: The visual appeal of the label on the garment plays a role in choosing the attachment method, especially for branding purposes.
Each method has its advantages, and the choice depends on factors such as the type of garment, the intended use of the label, and the desired durability and finish.