When it comes to choosing the right face stock for your labeling needs, the first question to consider is often, “should I go with a paper or film?”. In this guide, we will explore the advantages and disadvantages of selecting a paper or a film, including specific types of films such as BOPP, PET, and Polyolefin.
Paper:
Paper offers a wide range of options in terms of texture, appearance, and finish. This versatility allows you to achieve different aesthetic effects to suit your specific branding or design requirements. You can choose from various options such as
• Semi gloss,
• Gloss,
• Textured,
• Linen,
• Felt,
• Estate, and
• Metalized paper.
Paper tends to be more cost-effective compared to film options. If you have a tight budget or require large quantities of labels, paper can be a more economical choice without compromising on quality.
One of the main drawbacks of paper face stock is its relative lack of durability. Paper labels are more susceptible to wear and tear, making them less suitable for applications where labels may be exposed to harsh conditions or rough handling.
Paper labels are also prone to damage from moisture, extreme temperatures, UV light, and chemicals. If your labels need to withstand these conditions, paper may not be the most suitable option.
Overlaminate films, typically made from polyester or polypropylene, can be applied as a protective layer over the paper label. By applying an overlaminate, the paper face stock gains improved durability and environmental resistances, making it more suitable for applications where labels may be exposed to challenging environments while maintaining the look desired from a paper face stock.
Film:
Film face stock, such as Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene (BOPP), Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET), and Polyolefin, offers superior resistance to water, UV light, heat, and chemicals. This makes film labels suitable for applications where durability is a priority.
Film labels provide a wide range of opacity options. Depending on your needs, you can choose from 100% opaque films to achieve maximum coverage, or opt for lower opacity films to achieve a “no label” look where the label appears to blend seamlessly with the surface.
BOPP
known for its excellent clarity, high tensile strength, and resistance to moisture and oils. It is commonly used for food packaging, product labels, and outdoor applications.
PET
offers exceptional strength, chemical resistance, and dimensional stability. It is often used for durable labels, asset tracking, and applications requiring high-quality graphics.
Polyolefin
versatile option, offering good conformability and resistance to water, chemicals, and oils. It is suitable for a wide range of applications, including personal care products, household goods, and industrial labeling.
Film face stock is generally more expensive compared to paper. The higher cost can be a limiting factor, particularly for large-scale label production or budget-sensitive projects. And unlike paper, film face stock has limited options when it comes to texture and finishes. Film labels tend to have a smoother and shinier appearance, which may not be suitable for certain design preferences.
Whether you choose paper or film, understanding the benefits and drawbacks of each option is essential for making an informed decision. It is worth emphasizing that choosing the right face stock from the start can save you time, effort, and costs associated with potential reprints or label failures. At PRI Plus, we understand the importance of this decision, and our dedicated team of knowledgeable customer support specialists is available to assist you in selecting the most suitable face stock for your labeling requirements. Their expertise and guidance can help ensure that your labels meet your expectations and perform effectively in any conditions.