How to Print Avery Labels from Excel Step by Step

Author

Reads 1.2K

Writing Labels on Brown Box
Credit: pexels.com, Writing Labels on Brown Box

Printing Avery labels from Excel is a breeze, and I'm here to guide you through it step by step.

First, you'll need to have your Excel spreadsheet set up with the labels' information. This includes the address, name, and any other details you want to include on the labels.

In your Excel spreadsheet, select the cells that contain the information you want to print on the labels. Make sure to select the entire range of cells, including the header row.

Now, go to the "Mailings" tab in Excel and click on "Labels."

Setting Up

To start printing Avery labels from Excel, make sure you have the Avery label template installed in your Excel software. This template will help you set up the label layout and ensure that your labels are printed correctly.

First, open your Excel spreadsheet and select the data range you want to print as labels. The data range should match the layout of your Avery label template, which is typically set up with one label per row.

Choose the Avery label template that matches the size and type of labels you're using.

Setting Up a Mail Merge

Label Cut Out Papers on the Cardboard
Credit: pexels.com, Label Cut Out Papers on the Cardboard

Mail merge is a powerful tool that can save you time and effort when dealing with repetitive tasks like labeling or sending personalized messages. It's like having a personal assistant that can take your data and format it perfectly.

Trust me, mail merge is your best friend for tasks like this. Mail merge is like having a personal assistant that takes your Excel data and neatly places it on your Avery labels.

To set it up, you need to create a mail merge in Word. Mail merge might sound like a term from a bygone era, but it's still super useful today.

I've used mail merge to create professional-looking labels and invitations, and it's a game-changer.

Connect Your File

To connect your file, click "Select Recipients" and choose "Use an Existing List." This option allows you to pull data from an external source, such as an Excel file.

Your well-organized Excel file is where you'll find the data you want to use. Find it on your computer and open it.

A dialogue box will appear, asking you to select the sheet you want to use. Make sure your data starts on the first row!

Your first row is crucial, as it will determine which cells are used for data.

Preparing Data

Credit: youtube.com, Create Labels from a List in Excel | Mail Merge Labels from Excel to Word | Print Avery Labels

Preparing data is a crucial step in printing Avery labels from Excel. It's where you match your Excel data to the label templates.

To start, you'll want to select the correct Avery label template within your chosen tool. Avery labels have specific dimensions, so make sure your template matches the labels you're using. This is where having a tool with preloaded templates can be a lifesaver.

You'll also need to map your Excel data to the label fields. Most tools will let you drag and drop fields from your spreadsheet into the label template. This step is akin to setting up a mail merge, where you decide which data goes where.

Some tools with AI capabilities can even automate this mapping process, predicting where each data point should go based on common practices. This can save you time and ensure consistency across all your labels.

Here are the steps to arrange your fields:

  • In Choose Fields, confirm your list and uncheck the first row if you have headers.
  • Arrange your fields by dragging and dropping the Imported Data Fields to Arrange Fields or double-click each field name from the left side.
  • Use your Enter/or Return key, your mouse, or your key pad arrow keys to bring your cursor where you want each field.

By following these steps, you'll be able to prepare your data for printing Avery labels from Excel.

Selecting the Right Avery Template

Wooden Drawer with Labels
Credit: pexels.com, Wooden Drawer with Labels

You'll need to pick the correct Avery template to ensure your labels print correctly. This can be tricky, especially if you have a drawer full of different label sheets.

Avery templates come in various sizes to fit your needs, so make sure to choose the one that matches your label sheet. If you're not sure, consult the label sheet packaging for the correct template number.

It's easy to grab the wrong template, but taking a moment to double-check can save you from wasting labels.

Mapping Data

Mapping data is a crucial step in preparing your labels. You'll want to select the correct Avery label template within your chosen tool to ensure your information lands on the right part of the label.

Having a tool with preloaded templates can be a lifesaver, especially since Avery labels have specific dimensions. Most tools will let you drag and drop fields from your spreadsheet into the label template, making it similar to setting up a mail merge.

Covi-19 Vaccine Label Stickers
Credit: pexels.com, Covi-19 Vaccine Label Stickers

Some tools with AI capabilities can even automate this mapping process, predicting where each data point should go based on common practices. This can save you time and ensure consistency across all your labels.

You can format your data precisely how you like in Excel, making it easier to transition to labels. With AI, you can take this a step further by automating data entry, ensuring accuracy, and even predicting formatting needs.

To set up a mail merge, you'll need to insert merge fields, selecting the fields you want on your label and arranging them as you like. You can add commas, spaces, or line breaks to format it nicely.

Test Sample

Before printing your labels, it's a good idea to test a sample to catch any unexpected issues.

Printing a few test labels helps you identify any formatting problems or errors in your data without wasting your label sheets.

Previewing your labels before printing can also help you catch errors or formatting issues, but testing a sample is an additional step that ensures everything looks good before you commit to the entire batch.

Assorted Labeled Boxes on White Shelf
Credit: pexels.com, Assorted Labeled Boxes on White Shelf

This extra step can save you from a lot of frustration later on, as you can make adjustments to your data or label template before printing a large quantity of labels.

A little extra time spent testing a sample can make a big difference in the quality of your printed labels.

Select Label Supplier

As you prepare your data, it's essential to choose a reliable label supplier. Choose "Avery US Letter" or "Avery A4/A5" depending on your region.

You'll need to find your specific product number in the list, so take a moment to locate it. Remember that Avery 5160 is a common product number to look for.

Printing Labels

Printing labels can be a bit of a puzzle, but don't worry, I've got you covered. To start, make sure your printer settings match the type of Avery labels you're using.

Before printing, consider printing a test sheet on regular paper first to ensure everything aligns correctly. This small step can save you from wasting labels.

Couple Done Packing And Labeling Boxes
Credit: pexels.com, Couple Done Packing And Labeling Boxes

To print labels from Excel, you can use Word's mail merge feature, but with AI, there's a new way to automate and simplify the process. This involves formatting your data precisely in Excel and then using AI to automate data entry, ensuring accuracy, and predicting formatting needs.

Previewing your labels is essential before hitting the print button. Most label printing tools will offer a preview feature, allowing you to view a sample of your labels as they would appear when printed. Pay close attention to alignment, font size, and any text that might be cut off.

If you notice any issues, now's the time to make adjustments. This could mean tweaking your Excel data, adjusting the label template, or even recalibrating your printer settings. It's a bit of trial and error, but better to catch issues now than after you've printed a hundred labels.

Here are the basic steps to print Avery labels using Word from Excel:

  • Step 3: Import Recipient List From Excel into Word
  • Step 4: Insert Fields in Word
  • Step 5: Complete the Merging Process

Alternatively, you can use Method 2 – Print Single Avery Label Without Word from Excel, which involves running a VBA code to generate labels.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I print Avery labels in Microsoft?

To print Avery labels in Microsoft, go to Mailings > Labels and select Options to choose your printer settings. From there, you can enter your address and customize the formatting as needed

Is there a way to create Labels from an Excel spreadsheet?

Yes, you can create labels from an Excel spreadsheet using Word's mail merge feature. Simply set up your address list in Excel and follow the Step-by-Step Mail Merge Wizard in Word to print your labels.

Nellie Kling

Copy Editor

Nellie Kling is a seasoned copy editor with a keen eye for detail and a passion for clear, concise writing. She has honed her skills over years of experience, ensuring that every article she touches is polished and engaging. Nellie's expertise shines through in her coverage of cruise line news, where she provides insightful and well-researched content that captivates her audience.

Love What You Read? Stay Updated!

Join our community for insights, tips, and more.