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Monday, January 6, 2014

56

Labeling 101: Label Holders

It is no secret that I adore a good label.  Labels ensure things make it back to where they belong, and create a bit of consistency when multiple people are involved.  There are endless ways to create labels and no two labels are created equally.  Aside from labeling things for the practical purposes, I always try and create labels that blend seamlessly with our surroundings and decor.  This is the part of organizing that creates a little bit of interest and excitement for me.  Because I always receive questions on my labeling methods, I started a little Labeling 101 series awhile back.  You can find previous posts by clicking the images at the bottom of this post.

Today, I am chatting about one of my most favorite method of labeling - the label holder!


Just to get you up to speed, a label holder is just that, an awesome piece of hardware designed to hold labels.  They are also known as bookplates.


I recently shared these little beauties when I revealed our under the stairs storage closet.  I love that they provide a clean and professional finish, while also embellishing anything from drawers to box fronts.  Just to share a few more reasons why I adore these holders, here are a few more projects I have used them with:

Silhouette Craft Cart Labels

Greeting Card Organization

Closing Closet Drawers


Kitchen Cabinet Organization

Business Card Organization

Holiday Binder

It seems as though whenever I use the label holders with a project, I get a few questions on them, so I thought I would do a quick post on how I use them, and a tip for printing labels for the inside of the holders as well.

There are many types of labels holders on the market.  Some that require screws, some that use brads and others that can just stick right to the front of your basket, binder or shelves.  I use them all, and have sourced a few favorites at the end of the post for you.  The one you see me use most frequently are the Bookplates from the Martha Stewart collection at Staples.  They come in a few sizes and metal finishes, and are adhesive backed to make labeling anything a breeze.


The labels come with small label inserts, which you can just write on.  Because I am not a personal fan of my handwriting, I prefer to use my label maker and just pop a printed label inside of the holder, or to get the fancy and colorful fonts I print out labels with my computer.  

The colorful labels are my favorite, and I get the most questions about those, so here is my little trick.

I start by opening Microsoft Word or Excel, and typing up the desired labels.  In that program I can change the font colors and font types to anything I desire.  I always try and leave a good amount of space between each label, for cutting them down.  The size is always a little bit of a guessing game, but after you have done a couple, it gets easier to narrow down.

I prefer to print the labels onto a thicker paper, typically cardstock weight, but even 32 lb. is great.


When I have a lot of things to label, trying to get the categories cut and fit into the label holder nice and centered can be a bit finicky.  But here is a simple trick.

Take the label holder insert, which is already cut to size and comes with most holders, and use it as a template over some tracing paper or semi-transparent paper.  The Martha Stewart labels actually come stuck to the see through backing, which is what I save and use.


Once I create one cutout template of the see-through paper, I just lay it on all of the printed labels and trace around it.  The reason I do it this way, is I am able to see and center the font, so that when I slide the labels into the holders, they are just right!



Once they are all traced, I just cut them and pop them into the holder!  Easy peasy!



This method can work for any type of label holder, just a little tracing or see-through paper, and it is simple to print, trace and cut to create a beautiful label on your organizing projects.  I am a fan!

As I mentioned, here are a few more label holder sources I adore:

{ 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 }


And for more labeling "how to" posts:



Happy labeling everyone!  Class dismissed!



56 comments:

  1. love those labels holders, makes everything look so much more put together :-)

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  2. I love how much style a simple bookplate can add!

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  3. Thank you for this. How do you decide what categories to use? I get overwhelmed trying to figure out a name for each category when multiple things will be stored in one box/bin.

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    1. I always take notes when I am organizing a set of drawers or boxes and try to generalize the contents. Try to use a key word or two that you can use to associate to the majority of the objects within the box/bin you are labeling.

      xo!

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  4. I do this a lot. To make centering easier, I create a rectangle shape in whatever program I'm working in (usually Open Office Writer) the size of the little slip-in papers that come with Martha's wonderful bookplates, and then center the text within that ... then when I print out my page, I use my quilting ruler and rotary cutter (for extra straightness, because I am too anal to use scissors) to just cut on the rectangles. The edges of the bookplate will hide the rectangle printout, but I make my lines very thin dotted ones just in case. :)

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    1. Thank you for the tip! I have had so many times of trying to create a shape in Microsoft programs, that never print the size they are on my screen, that I didn't think this was possible. Must try it out again!

      xo!

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    2. Make sure that "actual size" instead of "fit to page" is selected in the print options ... or something like that. :)

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    3. Then again if I am doing it in Microsoft, I'm using Word, not Excel, so who knows!!

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  5. Just a thought, but if you're using the same label holder you could create a table and specify the row height and column width to equal the size of the label - then you could ensure that you are centering the text left to right and top to bottom and leaving enough space between each label - you could even have it print out borders for you to cut on. :)

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    1. This is what I do. SO much easier :) And I have it print with gray or dashed borders so the lines between the labels aren't as apparent (so I don't have to worry about cutting perfectly on the lines)

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    2. Hi Emily, I know you wrote this tip years ago but I am just coming across it now. I am new to labeling and want to be able to use your system to increase efficiency since I need to label everything at my new workplace. Are you saying I can create a table in Microsoft Word that I can then use as a template? Can I use thicker paper in my printer to make a thicker label? Thanks for any advice you can offer! kayla

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  6. What a wonderful post! I am going to have to go through and redo all my black and white labels to make them colorful! It just looks so much happier!

    On a side note, it has been a while since you posted your homemade cleaners entry. How has that been working for you? Specifically, how has the laundry detergent and fabric softener been working? I am considering giving it a go but wanted to know if it was something that you stuck with or if you have gone back to store bought.


    As always, lovely post!!


    Lexi

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    1. Thank you Lexi!

      Overall I have been really happy with most of them. I simplified the all-purpose a bit and have gone back to mainly vinegar and water. Otherwise, the hardest part is just making the time to actually make the products. Around the holidays I needed loo cleaner and just indulged in purchasing some because it was quicker. I may continue to look for ways to streamline the process a bit this year as I look to simplify my time, but I am still pretty happy with the switch!

      xoxo!

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  7. I was just making a list of things that I need to label, so this post came at the perfect time! I cut the sizes of my label inserts the exact same way as you. It must be a perfectionist thing. ;) I'll be buying some of the Martha adhesive bookplates for some items on my list. Thank you!

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  8. Great post. I am doing a complete over haul in January so this is a great idea! ericasrunningjourney.blogspot.com

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  9. Another great post - I'm in love with the label holders, and was so excited to finally find them stocked in Australia been waiting so long...

    A tip for when making the coloured labels, instead of tracing the shape you need, pop into Powerpoint, draw a box shape in the dimensions of your label, then 'add text' that way you will always get the right size, and text can be centred both vertically and horizontally.

    I've always done this, and have a different file template for each size label - one for round paper cutter ones, so you can print your message/labels on the page, then cut out with your paper punch!... You can change the border colour of the shape to 'no outline' or a fine dotted grey so you can see where to cut (with a guillotine)...
    I find it is way easier to work this way in Powerpoint as opposed to Word, as the 'shapes' can be moved around easier. Hope this tips helps everyone!...
    Send me an email if you'd like me to send you an example if that would make more sense!...
    Candy from Oz

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    1. I seriously had no idea you could do that. Thank you so much for the tip! I have had so many times of trying to create a shape in Microsoft programs, that never print the size they are on my screen, that I didn't think this was possible. I appreciate you letting me know this can work in Powerpoint, you just made things even easier. That is why I simply adore having this blog and you readers to teach me along the way! <3 xoxo!

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    2. Hi! You can also make the labels with the silhouette cameo, with the print and cut function. Just be careful to set the cut lines only to the rectangle, not the text. It's so easy, you can center the text on the shapes and you don't need to cut by hand.

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    3. So glad to offer a 'tip' to you in exchange for your awesome blog... Powerpoint is also fantastic for creating photo collages - and for photo editing as well - if you want to create a jpeg of an image - there's an option to 'file-save as' then select 'jpeg'.
      I create headers for my facebook groups with this option. This way I can select a photo - and easily lay text over the top - then save the whole thing as a jpeg - which is the only file you can upload to Facebook.
      I've tried complicated photo/paint programs - but always go back to PowerPoint!

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  10. Thanks for this post. I've decided I need to pretty up my work office, and I think these labels would be perfect to dress up my cardboard magazine holders. I haven't had as much luck finding them in stores here in Canada, but now I have a bunch more sources... and tips on how to size the labels that go in them. Thanks so much!

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  11. Thank you so much for posting about this! I have wondered about where to find the labels that you so creatively do! I really appreciate you taking the time to share the real nitty gritty for how to do something as well. Happy New Year!

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  12. These are my favourite kind of labels - I like the vintage look of them and I feel like the label is more 'protected' sitting in the holder. I used some recently in bathroom renovation over our towel hooks and on the storage shelves. They were totally unnecessary but I couldn't resist adding them anyway. They're just too darn cute!

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    1. I think that is one of the 3,565 reasons I loved that bathroom so much Jen! ;)

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  13. Hi Jen,
    I just found your blog a week ago and I can't stay off of it. One of my goals for the new year is to become more organized both at home and at work (I teach kindergarten). In such a short amount of time I have learned so much and have begun implementing some of the strategies in my life Thanks! One question I have in regards to the labeling is how to save patterns to use a s fill for fonts and labels. I noticed you used it to fill in the word Pets, and on the little girl play clothes label in the creating labels post. Thanks in advance:)

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    1. Hi Chanel!

      I just save the background image to a folder on my computer {you can find many free options on Pinterest and Google}, and then browse for them when creating the labels.

      xo!

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  14. Hi Jen, I've been following your blog for some time and find your creativity and attention to detail absolutely inspiring! Would it be possible to share how you create your colorful borders used on your binder pages? Many thanks Ursula

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  15. Beautiful labels!! Colourful prints too. And about adhesive metal bookplates... I never even knew they existed! Hopefully I can find them here (The Netherlands).

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  16. Thank you for your post! Since the day one I started following your blog, I´ve searched for those lovely labelholders here in Finland. Haven´t succeeded yet in finding, but hopefully soon!

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  17. I always have such good intentions to get my paper organized and I oogle over all of the goodies in Staples. Yet to actually accomplish it, fail! Good example: I had no idea that the manila file folders have three different tab locations for a reason...and that "A" should start on the left, "B" is the center tab and "C" on the right and then continue the cycle through the alphabet. LIGHT BULB ON. I need someone to dumb it down for me.

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  18. I love using Martha Stewart's bookplates. They have made a lot of things in my home organized and pretty!

    www.styleoyster.blogspot.com

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  19. I love your Blog and I have learned so much from you! Thank you! I'm heading to Staples right now to stock up on some Martha Stewart label holders. They look so professional. Thanks! xxoo

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  20. Seriously! Those are amazing! Who would have ever thought to post about label holders? Only YOU! :) I'm inspired for sure!

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  21. Another inspiring post. I love meeting with you daily through the web. I was wondering what font you are showing in your pile of cut outs?

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  22. Wonderful post! I'm working on my craft room & need a lot of label holders with pulls so found these two from D. Lawless Hardware for such a great price:

    http://www.dlawlesshardware.com/cup-pull-label-holder-nickel.html

    http://www.dlawlesshardware.com/nickel-cabinet-label-holder.html

    The only catch is if your order is under $50 the shipping is $10.75, but over $50 ships free. If you need a lot of pulls or label holders or knobs, etc. this is a GREAT resource! Just wanted to share! :)

    Thanks again for your great advice, as always!

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    1. Thank you for the links! I am a giant D Lawless Hardware fan! Such great pieces at really great prices!

      xo!
      Jen

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  23. I always LOVE your organization posts! I'm a huge fan of Martha Stewart's stationary products.

    http://littlestsparrow.blogspot.com

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  24. Fun, I love the label plates...I think I am becoming closer to convinced that I need a label maker! :D

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  25. I didn't know martha's line make them! I guess my brother labeler will need to rest for now! lol.

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  26. Happy New Year, Dear Jen. Just wanted to thank you very much for this label holder info/lesson. So much appreciated. Off to get some of those MS label holders!
    Like yourself, I'm very much into labels. It's a chronic disorder going back to childhood when I had to label everything (back then the labels just had my name on them). LOL!

    -Deby

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  27. What kind of box did you use for your greeting card box? What about the dividers? Since I am a card maker and recently got my own space I'm always looking for ideas to help.

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  28. Hello Jen! I love your blog! Can you tell me what font you used for those labels? Its Gorgeous!

    Nisha

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  29. Hi Jen, thank you, as always for sharing your awesome tips and techniques so generously with us! I appreciate it so much! :)

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  30. Thank you for this. I need to add some labels like these to some pretty boxes that I just started using to store craft supplies.

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  31. Hi Jen! I am also a label junkie & love this post. I wondered what kind of printer you use? Mine does not print colors anywhere close to what yours does. We just have always had terrible luck with printers. Thanks!
    Angela

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    1. Hi Angela!

      I use an HP LaserJet CP1525nw color and so far I love it!

      xo!

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  32. Holy cuteness! I can't believe I haven tried these bookplates yet! They are completely adorable! Now I just need to find the right project...or 10! ;) Hope you're having a great week, Jen!

    ~Abby =)

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  33. My go-to Microsoft app is Publisher. I can drag grid lines onto the page, draw boxes, and add my text. Or sometimes I use a label size page from the templates, make each label a new page, and print multiple pages on a sheet.

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  34. Awesome post! Its crazy how labeling is a simple thing that can make life 100x easier! Just an idea as I was reading through this - when you are making the labels in Word/Excel, you could center everything (rather than doing left alignment) and then you just have to measure once instead of centering each word/phrase while stenciling.

    Just a thought to make a perfect system even more easy! :)

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  35. Can you please tell me where you purchased the storage cart you have in the closet. we are downsizing & I looking for ideas. Thanks

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    1. Hello!

      They are from IKEA, you can snag the details here: http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2013/12/under-stairs-storage-reveal.html

      xo!

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  36. You have NO idea how incredibly helpful this post was! I've been scouring the internet trying to find metal label holders that I didn't have to buy online and was about to end my search until I came across your site. Thank you, thank you!!

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  37. Loved this post! Decided to try it and I cannot seem to find the Martha Stewart Bookplates anywhere. Any other suggestions for adhesive bookplates?

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  38. Hi Jen! I have recently fallen in love with your blog and am busy copying a number of your great ideas. I am also doing the organizing challenge but am not sure if my 4 projects posted. Anyway, my question is whether you have identified a replacement product for the Martha Stewart adhesive bookplates that have been discontinued? As a new follower, I just got turned onto this fabulous resource and have not been able to find a similar option on Amazon, Google, etc. I would love to know what to do with those bookplates for my labeling! Sydney Motes

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    1. I still have a very small stash of the adhesive bookplates, so I haven't purchased any type of alternative option since they were canceled (major sad face), but I have looked into it and found a couple that may work from The Container Store:

      http://www.containerstore.com/shop?productId=11001553&N=&Ntt=label+holder

      http://www.containerstore.com/shop?productId=10036946&N=&Ntt=label+holder

      Thanks Sydney!

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