A Comprehensive Guide to Labels for Matchboxes and Beyond

Labels for matchboxes are a simple yet effective way to add a personal touch to your matches. They come in various shapes, sizes, and materials, making it easy to find the perfect one to match your decor.

You can choose from a wide range of designs, from simple text labels to intricate illustrations. In fact, some labels can even be customized with your name or initials.

A well-designed label can elevate the entire matchbox experience, making it a lovely addition to any room.

You can make your own labels for matchboxes in a few different ways. One option is to use the clear packing tape method, which is a super cheap trick that works like a charm.

If you prefer to use a more traditional label, you can print onto clear stickers using a printer. The Avery Matte Clear Shipping Labels are a great option, and they come in a standard size sheet of 10 – 2 X 4 labels.

You can also print on regular paper or cardstock to create your own label. This is a great idea if you want to print on colored paper, like brown kraft paper, which would look really cute.

Curious to learn more? Check out: Shipping Label Printers for Small Business

Pre-Made Labels can be a convenient option for DIY labeling, especially for those short on time or design skills.

You can find pre-made labels in various shapes, sizes, and materials, such as paper, vinyl, and iron-on.

Some pre-made labels are specifically designed for certain products, like water bottles or jars, making them easy to apply and look great.

Pre-made labels can be purchased online or in craft stores, making it easy to find what you need.

For example, a label maker can produce labels up to 1 inch wide and 6 feet long, which can be a significant time-saver for labeling large quantities.

Expand your knowledge: Package Labeling

You can create your own custom labels using a few different methods. One option is to print on regular paper or cardstock, which allows you to print on colored paper if you want a specific look.

You can use a standard size sheet of paper, and simply cut down the printed label to fit your box. You can also round the corners for a more polished look.

If this caught your attention, see: Printable Kraft Paper Labels

To attach the label, you can use Mod Podge or another adhesive. I've found that this method works well, especially if you're using a colored paper.

Here are three DIY label design methods to consider:

Alternatively, you can print on clear stickers, such as Avery Matte Clear Shipping Labels. These labels come in a standard size sheet of 10 – 2 X 4 labels, making it easy to print and cut them down to size.

Curious to learn more? Check out: Clear Labels Custom

Place labels on the center of the product for a clean and balanced look, as seen in the examples of custom vinyl labels on glass bottles and metal tins.

For irregularly shaped products, place labels on the side or back to ensure they fit comfortably and don't obstruct the product's functionality.

Consider the product's size and shape when deciding on label placement, as demonstrated by the use of adhesive labels on small containers and iron-on labels on larger items.

Avoid placing labels on areas that will be subject to wear and tear, such as handles or areas prone to moisture, as shown in the example of a water bottle with a poorly placed label.

Check this out: Product Labeling Machine

Collecting matchbox labels is called phillumeny, and those who are obsessed with it are called phillumenists. There are so many phillumenists because matchbox graphics can be found all over the world.

Japan was particularly prolific in producing matchbox designs, with a wide range of styles and designs. Commercial art played a big role in developing brand recognition and sales for new industrial products.

The Japanese matchbox designs were influenced by European styles like Victorian and Art Nouveau, which was evident in the matchboxes from the early 20th century. These styles were later combined with traditional Japanese styles and geometries from the Meiji period.

Matchbox design in Japan exhibited a unique hybrid typography that blended Western and Japanese styles. Domestic brands, however, were typically designed using only Kanji characters.

In Japan, matchboxes were a common item in daily life, and safety matches were in high demand due to the country's lumber industry. The largest Japanese match manufacturers were well-known, but the artists who designed their labels were often kept anonymous.

The all-round label, also known as an ARTB, was used on British-made matches from the early 1830s until the late 1970s.

These labels wrapped around the entirety of the matchbox and are highly valuable when kept intact. Cutting them into sections like old-time collectors used to do renders them worthless.

If you're collecting all-round labels, it's essential to keep them complete and uncut to increase their value.