
Choosing the right fabric label printer can be a daunting task, but it's essential to get it right. The type of printer you need depends on the size and type of labels you want to print.
There are several types of fabric label printers available, including direct-to-fabric printers and transfer printers. Direct-to-fabric printers print directly onto the fabric, while transfer printers use a heat transfer process to apply the design.
The resolution of the printer is also an important factor to consider. A higher resolution printer will produce a more detailed and vibrant print, but it may also be more expensive. For example, a printer with a resolution of 600 dpi is ideal for printing high-quality labels, but a printer with a resolution of 300 dpi may be sufficient for smaller labels.
Ultimately, the right fabric label printer for you will depend on your specific needs and budget.
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Choosing the Right Printer
Choosing the right printer for your fabric label needs can be overwhelming, especially with the numerous options available.

The first thing to consider is the type of printer, which can be either inkjet or laser. Inkjet printers are perfect for small to medium-sized orders and are known for their versatility.
Inkjet printers can print on a variety of fabric types, including cotton, polyester, and blends. They are also relatively affordable and easy to maintain.
Laser printers, on the other hand, are ideal for high-volume orders and offer faster printing speeds. However, they require more maintenance and are generally more expensive than inkjet printers.
The print resolution of a printer is also an essential factor to consider, with a higher resolution resulting in more detailed and crisp prints. A print resolution of 300 dpi or higher is recommended for fabric labels.
Some printers may also have specific features such as wireless connectivity, which allows for easy printing from mobile devices. Others may have adjustable print settings, such as font size and color, to customize the look of your labels.
In addition to the printer itself, it's also important to consider the type of labels you'll be printing, including the size, material, and finish.
Labeling Options
You can print labels directly onto fabric using a fabric label printer, which can produce stickers for sewing into garments. These devices use rolls to print data, figures, and care tags.
Some fabric label printers, like the Brother TD 4520TNC, can stack ready-to-attach labels and cut them to size using built-in accessories. This makes them perfect for handling large quantities of labels that require high heat for printing.
Adhesive labels made of acetate silk can be used for name tags and reliably stick on clothing without leaving residues. They can be detached without any issues.
Name Tags
For name tags, adhesive labels made of acetate silk are a reliable choice because they stick well to clothing and can be detached without leaving residues.
These labels have a surface structure that's well-suited for thermal transfer printing, which is a common method for printing labels.
To ensure reliable printing, special treatment is required for the labels and the printer.
The SQUIX series of textile printers from cab come with a centered material guidance and a separator that keeps the ribbon from getting tangled with the material during printing.
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Cab Print and Apply System

The cab print and apply system is a great solution for labeling items in various industries. It's capable of printing labels and applying them automatically to packaged items.
The system is particularly useful in professional dry-cleaning, where it can be integrated into existing cleaning sites with ease. The slim design of the HERMES model makes it simple to install wherever needed.
In dry-cleaning, the system can be used to apply labels to freshly cleaned items, such as work, casual, and evening clothing, curtains, carpets, blankets, or upholstery. The labels can be applied vertically or horizontally, making it a versatile solution.
The cab print and apply system is designed to be flexible and adaptable, with the ability to replace the label applicator module in a few steps if the product or application changes. This makes it a convenient option for businesses that need to adjust their labeling process.
The system can apply labels to items while they're steady or in motion, or even blow labels on without contact. This level of flexibility makes it a valuable addition to any labeling operation.
Smart Thermal Labeling

Smart Thermal Labeling is a game-changer for the textile industry. It enables thermal transfer printing, which is one of the best methods for clothing labels and care tags.
This method allows your setup to work faster and provides long-lasting adhesion. Thermal transfer printing can work with acetate silk adhesive labels and other types that remain securely attached to an item.
You can get a fabric label printer with a divider and a centered material guide. The separator guarantees that the ribbon does not interfere with the substance during printing.
A good fabric label printer should have a separator that keeps the ribbon from getting in the way of the material. This is especially important when working with large quantities of labels.
Some fabric label printers, like the SQUIX series, come with a centered material guidance and a separator. This makes it easy to print labels without any issues.
Thermal label makers for clothes are great for large-scale production. They can print labels quickly and efficiently, with minimal blank label waste between print operations.
Here are some benefits of using a thermal label maker for clothes:
- Great for compliance in the textile industry
- Versatility in the choice of labeling tags and information
- Efficiency in large-scale production
- Ease of use and setup
- Cost-effectiveness and portability
- Adaptability to different label types
When selecting a thermal label maker for clothes, consider attachment peculiarities, the quantities you'll work with, printing speed, and whether it satisfies the particular needs of your business.
Labeling Accuracy
Labeling Accuracy is crucial in the textile sector, where manufacturers and brands must ensure correct labels are attached to clothing before they hit the market.
Tight rules in the textile sector impose the need for accurate labels to prevent mistakes. They should be professionally printed and attached to clothing to keep consumers aware of material nuances, item durability, good care practices, and more.
Pieces like work clothes or other gear should come with detailed information on cleaning and maintenance procedures. You should stick with widely understood language and symbols to eliminate the risk of misreading labels or confusing them during sorting.
Using a fabric label printer can help achieve labeling accuracy, as they can produce stickers for direct sewing into garments. They can also print data, figures, and care tags using rolls.
A clothing label maker, like the Brother TD 4520TNC, is perfect for printing on one side and is particularly dependable for handling vast quantities of labels that require high heat for printing.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you put labels on fabric?
To attach labels to fabric, you can use a straight stitch or zigzag stitch around the edges, depending on the type of fabric and desired level of security. Choose the method that best suits your needs for a clean and secure finish.
Is it cheaper to buy labels or print your own?
It depends on the quantity, with printing your own often being more cost-effective for large numbers and buying pre-printed labels being cheaper for small quantities. Consider your needs and costs to make an informed decision.
Sources
- https://www.hprt.com/blog/Choosing-the-Right-Fabric-Label-Printer-for-Your-DIY-Clothing-Businesses.html
- https://www.cab.de/en/news/news/textile/
- https://www.durafastlabel.com/printers-by-technology/fabric-label-printers/
- https://www.officedepot.com/b/labels-and-label-makers/Material_Family--Fabric/N-1159754
- https://theribbonprintcompany.com/products/clothing-and-care-tags
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