There is an easy and cheap way to acquire sewing labels and you do not have to wait 6-8 weeks for a custom order. Using Photoshop, Microsoft, or Open Office; one piece of transfer paper; any type of ribbon you prefer (brown twill for me), you can create hundreds of ribbons for pennies on the dollar. The design of your cloth label is only limited by your imagination--so consider using images and fonts and playing with the label's color and size. In this economy, being handmade just may make a comeback--it's proving to be a rewarding investment for me.
I can't pretend that I invented the wheel when it comes to this technique, but having custom labels is crucial for those who want to add a professional touch to their wares. I had to share what I learned as soon as I found out, so check out my quick tutorial and Google other blogger's take on handmade sewing labels.
You Will Need:
transfer paper, purchased here or at your chain discount department stores or craft stores.
ribbon (cotton can sustain high heat).
an iron or heat textile tool (think of a mini iron that can sit right next to your sewing machine. It is one of my crafting must-haves and can be bought here).
scissors
To Do:
1. Measure the size of your font in comparison to your ribbon. I used a 20-sized fancy font to fit on my 1/2 wide ribbon. Do a few test prints on printer paper until you find your desired size.
2. Remember to enter your font and images in reverse! It's easy to do on Photoshop and using Word you should be able to enter your font and images normally and select the mirror image in your printing options to print backwards.
3. Once you've sized your font and images to fit your ribbon, repeat your logo on the page as close as it will allow to maximize your print quantity.
4. Print your logos on a piece of transfer paper and cut out one image to iron onto your ribbon.
The reason why I love the textile tool is that you can work on small surfaces and I no longer have to jump in and out of my seat to press a seam or adhere an image to my labels. I cut out a swatch of wool felt (anything else will melt and burn) to use as a heating pad on my sewing table. If you use a coupon at your craft store you could pay as little as $15 for one. It's a definite good buy.
5. Place the transfer paper face down on your ribbon and press. Wait until the ribbon cools before peeling off the back.
6. You now have a custom label! Now get back to work and make some more.
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