Monday, March 18, 2013

81 Labeling 101: Print & Laminate

I'm baaaack!

Did you miss me?  I missed y'all like crazy!  It's amazing what a little time away with the fam will do.  It was so super great, but I am excited to be back to blogging!

I get a lot of questions around this joint, but one of the most frequent is, "How do you make your labels?"  And when it comes down to it, there are over 101 ways to make a label, and although I have shown quite a few around here, I have never really gotten down to the nitty gritty details of each type and how they are created.  So, to build up a label tutorial project gallery, I am starting a new series so properly titled: Labeling 101.

Pretty sweet eh?  Yeah, you think you are excited....

And since this month is Linen & Loo month, I thought I would take a look at our own closets.  We have a linen closet in our hallway, which is so far from all bathrooms, that we turned it into more of a first aid/medication/pet supply closet, and opt to store towels and bath supplies right within each bathroom instead.  This works great since you really shouldn't store your medications in the bathroom itself, and our hall closet is not exposed to high or low temps, it is always juuuust right.


I organized the closet and spilled the details last year right here, and over a year later, it is still functioning fantastically!

The only little problem was with my original label selection.  I printed some labels onto Avery stickers and over time, they have gotten dirty and are peeling away from the baskets.  This doesn't really surprise me since when I stuck them to the baskets initially, they didn't seem to grab as I expected.  A year later I am back to do it right.  And, to share the "how" in making some of my favorite types of labels; the no fail, print and laminate kind!


The reason I love to create my own labels on my computer, print them off and laminate them is because:
  • I design the overall look.  I can customize the text font, outline, colors, effects, etc....
  • I can mount them onto pretty papers to give them even more strength and happiness
  • By laminating them, they will stay durable for years and year to come

I shared an in depth tutorial on creating my labels in Excel here, however, I thought I would do a quickie recap in this post and take you from beginning to end in the process.  Ready?  Here we go!

As I mentioned, I create most of my labels in Microsoft Excel.  I use Office 2010, but I believe techniques are similar in older versions.

To begin, I open a new workbook and go straight to the Insert tab and select the WordArt feature.



I am a huge fan of ULTRA font, which you can get for free here, because it is nice and bold and chunky, rarr!  It makes it easier to play with font fills, if that is your sort of thing.  And my friends, that is definitely my sort of thing.

Once you have your label text, you can format the fill, outline, shadows, etc... right from the Format tab.


I like to really play around with it until I get it just how I like it, so I highlight my label text and right click to Format Text Effects:


Within this window, you can play around with the text fill, and watch it change as you go.  I have a variety of desktop/web patterns and backgrounds saved on my computer, and they make great font fillers.  You just select the option Picture or Texture Fill and browse for the image file on your computer.  Once you select it, I always select the Tile Picture and Texture button, and adjust the tiling options until the pattern fits nicely within the WordArt.


Within the Format Text Effects box, you will see options down the left side, to continue and modify your label text.  I always like to add a fun outline to the text, just to bold it up and bit.


Once I am done creating the text in Excel, I print it out onto heavy duty cardstock paper.  This really ensures the label will be nice and strong and durable.

Here are the supplies I like to use to create the label once printed:


  • My laminating machine, which is over five years old and was originally purchased at Target for around $30.  It still works great, and it has been well worth the investment.
  • A glue stick
  • Pretty paper
  • Velcro circles
  • Printed labels
  • I also like to use my paper slicer to cut nice straight edges

To begin, I cut down the labels and use the glue stick to mount them onto the pretty paper.  This gives the label a nice matte and adds strength.


Then, I cut them down a second time with my paper slicer.


The next step is to pop them through the laminator, this is that final strength they need to last a lifetime of wear and tear.  I try not to waste my laminating sheets, so I cut them down before putting them though the laminator.


And off they go!  It is always good to put your laminate in-between some protective covers.  I use the ones that came with the machine, however, this might also vary by machine type.


All done and cut down one last time!


You can adhere these labels in many ways, it really depends on the basket type and material.  You could punch them with a whole punch and use zip-ties, twine or ribbon.  You could use some hot glue or my favorite, Velcro.  I find it is super durable and removes without residue, so it receives a thumbs up from me.


And done!  Super fantastic printed and laminated basket labels!


And the final product once all the baskets were updated:


I always have all the supplies on hand, which also makes this a quick and simple labeling option.  In the end, it took me no more than 15 minutes from start to finish to whip up these wonderful little labels.

81 comments:

  1. Lovely, Jen! Thanks for the tutorial! I made some laminated labels last week using...let's just say, a "less refined" method...packing tape! In case you don't have a laminating machine, this is a great alternative for laminating small-ish labels. (Here's the post if you want to see! http://richerfullerbe.blogspot.com/2013/03/how-to-laminate-with-packing-tape.html)

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    1. Ahhh yes! I have done that many many times! Such a great option, thank you for mentioning it!

      xo,
      Jen

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  2. I have serious label envy over all of the pretty paper you have! Thanks for the awesome font suggestion too. :)

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    1. By the way, I mentioned you in my blog post for Bloglovin' tips due to your .fi extension (not the .com used here in the U.S.). I wasn't sure how to let you know, but I hope it's okay! It's towards the bottom if you want to see. :)

      http://vintagezest.blogspot.com/2013/03/diane-technology-recipe-for-disaster.html

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  3. I make all my own labels using Microsoft Word! I scored a new laminator for $17 during the holidays, so I now laminate everything to extend their use. Most recently I did labels for my son's "big boy" closet: http://managingthemanor.com/a-big-closet-for-a-big-boy/

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    1. That is a super deal! And the closet looks incredible! Thank you so much for sharing!

      xo,
      Jen

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  4. I love labels, and I second the laminating! It makes them so much more durable. My favorite way to make them is to print them on the Avery (or comparable) business cards. Then I buy the laminating sheets that are business card size. They are super cheap and there's no cutting, since they are sized perfectly! Also, I have used circle punches for cutting both the label and a slightly larger circle punch to punch out the laminated part. Also, I just got my Silhouette machine (huge upgrade from Cricut) two days ago and although I haven't had a chance to try it, I think I will be able to use the print and cut feature to perfectly cut the laminated part on the less basic designs. Have you tried that?

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    1. Oooh, the business card trick is great, thank you for sharing! And I have used the Silhouette to make some print and cut labels, very cool feature!

      xo,
      Jen

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    2. Laura & Jen - I'm a big fan of the Hold It Business Card Pockets as an alternative to laminating as well. Especially on the Garage & Attic storage bins... that way it's an easy label swap anytime I reorganize or change up what's in the bin. Years ago, I used some old business cards that were blank on the back & just created a P-Touch Label. Oh how I've upgraded since getting my Silhouette :)

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  5. Looks very nice! Love your blog.

    Greetings from the Netherlands.

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  6. I just started labeling jars in our kitchen. I used chalkboard labels and a chalk pen. First thing I labeled was our big clear jar of rice. My hubby commented "do you really need to label that we can clearly see that there is rice inside". LOL. He clearly doesn't get it. I received a laminator for christmas I will have to use it to make labels now. Love your blog, thanks for all the inspiration.

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  7. Thanks for the tutorial Jen. You make it seem so easy. I love that they are customized for your needs and color choices!

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  8. Awesome, you taught me a new trick! I didn't know how to make the patterns inside the font, and now I do. Hmmm...what can I label?

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  9. I hope you had a great vacation! :-)

    I bought a laminator back in the day and absolutely love using it for making labels.

    ~Sarah

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  10. Nice to have you back! Thanks for the details in this post. Now I need to find a decently priced laminator.

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    1. Hi Priscilla!

      Check amazon, they have a lot of great and inexpensive options: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004FM76BK/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B004FM76BK&linkCode=as2&tag=iheaorga-20

      xo!
      Jen

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    2. Thanks so much for the link to the laminator. You are so kind!

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  11. Thanks so much for sharing this! I've always wanted to put labels on everything like I see in all the blogs, but realized when I start to do it, that I'm not really sure how. THanks so much for taking the time to break this down to such easy steps!! I'm so excited!

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  12. Obviously I need a laminator now. I'm excited :)
    Also, we have those RE baskets too and I luuurve them

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  13. Thanks so much for this awesome tutorial! I love it!
    Leslie
    House on the Way

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  14. This is soo neat! Thanks for sharing. For those that don't have a laminator, you can get self adhesive laminating sheets at office supply stores.

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  15. Jen, what is the cheapest way to buy your laminating pouches? Full size or smaller?

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    1. Hi Fran!

      I think both are great options. I purchase larger sheets since I laminate many of my checklists and printables, I found that Big Box Warehouse stores sell them steeply discounted.

      xo!
      Jen

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  16. Hi Jen!

    Love the labels! What size font did you use on these labels? I know this will vary depending on the project but I actually have those baskets and plan to label them. I struggle with selecting just the right size font. lol-

    Thanks!

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    1. Hmmmm, I didn't save the label file, so I am not 100% sure, but I would guess it was around 48.

      xo!
      Jen

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  17. thanks for the font and the fill in tip! i've never used my patterns and backgrounds for this... let the labeling begin!

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  18. Great tutorial! I just created some labels for my fridge bins in word. Nothing is better than labels :)

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  19. Jen, I think we are label soul mates! I love the "print and label"!(Just posted a tutorial on making them in Word on my blog recently!) Thanks so much for sharing these tips with us. I'm so glad you were able to get away with the family and take a break-- welcome back!

    ~Abby =)

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  20. Thanks for the tutorial! I have definitely been wondering this for awhile. I'm feeling motivated to label away =)

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  21. Just found your blog & I'm in LOVE!!! : ). Where in WI are you from?? : )

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  22. LOVE LOVE LOVE this tutorial! I would love more tutorials on how to use Excel to create beautiful printables! Thanks for sharing!

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  23. I love these labels. I like the special touch of pasting them on to fabulously fun paper. Just adds to the look. I've recently moved and am in the process of organizing my bins, baskets, and boxes. Next up, get the laminating machine heated up - you've inspired me!

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  24. Jen you and I do our labels exactly the same. I digital scrapbook so I have tons of digital printed paper that I use as fillers for my words. I also love the velcro dots....do you know that they sell them by the roll in the sewing/fabric area of craft stores??

    Laura @ Casual Fridays

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  25. thanks soooooooooo much! labels are my nemesis. i've always used paper which does exactly like you mention. i can't wait to try the laminate section especially since I have everything i need to get started! you can also get the packs of velcro dots at the dollar store.

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  26. Hi!

    Can you provide a link for where you download your "fill effects"? Thanks!
    Theresa

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  27. Always wondered how you make those cute labels! I finally got around to labeling kitchen containers - they're cute, but I just printed them on Post-It labels. Nice that they're removable, but so are Velcro circles!

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  28. I've always wanted to ask you as to how you made these wonderful labels! :) Thanks for posting about them! Your blog is lovely!

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  29. I want a laminater so bad now!! I love all of your cute labels, thanks for the tutorial!

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  30. love this blog...so much inspiration

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  31. Love this post...thank you! I pinned your older post on how you use Excel to make your labels, but I really like how this breaks the process down even further. Thanks again.

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  32. You are Seriously Amazing!!!
    Thank you so much for sharing!

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  33. Thank you for the tutorial on Excel! The labels are gorgeous.

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  35. Welcome back!!! Thanks for the great tips above and for making me really want a laminator!

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  36. Great source of ideas...i m always looking for ways to simplify my crazy life....thanks!!!

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  37. Love!! I'm in the process of updating all my labels too...I have the same label maker from a bazillion years ago too...heart it!!

    If someone has an aversion to Excel, your steps work exactly the same in Word. :)

    I do the laminating process too...for some of mine that change a lot, I don't print the label but I write with a sharpie after I laminate...a little rubbing alcohol takes it right off and you can change the label. Someone gave me that tip when I was teaching...it's a handy thing.

    And those weave baskets from Target are the bomb diggity...... <3

    Your blog is awesome...thanks for all the tips and wonderful eye candy!

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  38. Oh, how I needed your blog this morning - so happy to peruse and find so many great ideas - thrilled to be your newest follower!!

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  39. OMG! These are fantastic ideas on how to organize and label those closet contents. The laminator is stellar! We've got a hallway closet that is so in need of organizing. Thank you!

    3girls1apple.com

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  40. I didn't realize laminators are that reasonable priced. Need to check it out! (Your closets look incredible!)

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  41. so happy to see this- I just bought a laminator for the kids home school stuff and I just realized I should be making these helpful labels then using that thing!

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  42. These are so cute! I label everything! Thanks for these new tricks to jazz up my labeling. **On a sidenote, where did you find those great baskets?

    Heather

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  43. I do not seem to have texture or picture as options under the text fill - only the shape fill.... can anyone help???

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  44. Thanks for the post. I have wondered what some of your techniques are.

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  45. After all these years using Excel for everything... except labels!! I now have a page full of labels to print :) Thanks for sharing! And using a laminator is such a good idea... I tend to laminate anything that is paper if I think I am going to use it regularly (calendars, weekly meal planners, etc).

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  46. I love the Ultra font! I also need to procure a laminator. ASAP.
    I'm also PUMPED for Labeling 101!!!

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  47. where can u get the vlcro from?

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  48. Thank you, thank you, thank you, Jen!! I'm so much more used to Word over Excel, but I felt a bit limited in what Word can do. This tutorial is PERFECT!!! Now I can create some labels similar to the ones I've been drooling over on your site!! Glad you had fun with the fam :-)

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  49. Really cute, Jen! Labels are so important to an organized home and cute ones are even better! :)

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  50. love these labels! thank you for the info on how to easily do it on my own I'd have never known plus their adorable! xx. gigi. food and beauty blogger @ www.gigikkitchen.blogspot.com

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  51. Jen thanks so much for sharing. Now I think I'm going to make many labels this way. I have a lot of the supplies already and this is super easy in Excel. Thanks for the detailed instructions. I heart how yours turned out. Thanks for the inspiration. :)

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  52. Hi Jen,

    I was wondering what sort of factors I should look for in a laminator? Obviously size is an option, but I've been looking since I saw your fabulous labels and there are lots of different features. Being new to laminating, I was hoping you could tell me what was important to have in a good laminator.

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    1. Hi Amanda!

      Good question. I honestly don't know what other features they could/should have. Mine is very basic. On and off switch. :) Nothing too fancy and has been working fab for years!

      xoxo!
      Jen

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  53. Thanks so much for this tutorial - i love my laminator and use it all the time! I think i'll print up some fancy labels like this. Thank you so much for the inspiration!
    Violette

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  54. Hi jen...can i ask you about velcro? Is it hook and loop coins? Sound silly but I just come across after reading this entry

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  55. Everything that you make comes out looking so polished and adorable! I feel like you should make your house a part of the Organizational Parade of Homes. Such a tings doesn't exist...but it should, and your home should be the first stop!

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  56. Hi Jen... Thanks for the tutorial! I do have one question... where do you get the patterns???? (I'm a total novice at this...:)

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    1. Hi Staci!

      I find many of them by searching Google images and purchasing stock backgrounds. Also, check Pinterest as there are many freebie backgrounds and wallpapers being offered by super talented bloggers and graphic designers. xo!

      xo!
      Jen

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  57. First of all, thank you a million for this post, Jen! LOVE IT! I love the step-by-step (because who are we kidding? I'm so technologically challenged I need all the help I can get.) :) And the laminator? GENIUS! Now if only I could laminate my boys clothes so I could just wipe off all the stains....Thanks again for the awesome post!

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  58. oooo thanks! I have a bunch of the Velcro thingys and now I know what I can use them for! My 15 month old will love taking all the labels off everything! lol

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  59. I REALLY appreciate the step-by-step tutorial on labeling! I have what I need to label to my heart's content...except one thing...Please share links to your favorite sites for patterns/backgrounds?? That would be Terrific!

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    1. Hi Leslie!

      I find many of them by searching Google images and purchasing stock backgrounds. Also, check Pinterest as there are many freebie backgrounds and wallpapers being offered by super talented bloggers and graphic designers. xo!

      xo!
      Jen

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  60. Thanks, Jen, for this great tutorial! We are re-organizing our garage this weekend and I am going to use your method to make my own labels.

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  61. Hi Jen, Thanks so much for this tutorial...I am stuck on this and I also have Microsoft Word 2010 so I don't know why my version does not have Picture or Texture Fill under the advanced Text fill option....am I missing something? When I go to text fill I only have three choices: No fill, solid fill or gradient fill. Hmmm?

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  62. Hi Erin!

    I actually use Microsoft Excel. Word doesn't seem to have nearly as many formatting options.

    xo!
    Jen

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  63. What kind of printer do you have? I really need a new one and yours seems to print great!

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    1. Hi Elisa!

      I print a lot of documents and labels, so I invested in a laser printer. I was lucky enough to find my current printer on black Friday so I got a great deal! It’s the HP LaserJet CP1525nw color and so far I love it! Prior to having a laserjet printer, I had a HP Photosmart printer which was great for projects around the house. Depending on your price point, I’ve found that most HP photosmart printers are excellent for high quality printing.

      xo,
      Jen

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