What is coated paper?

Coated paper is a common term of paper which is treated with something on the surface. The aim is to obtain a smoother surface of the paper – for example a glossy surface.
It is rather difficult to write on this paper with a ballpoint pen or with a pencil, but the print itself is stronger mainly because the ink does not get absorbed and remains on the closed surface of the paper. If a paper label is to be varnished after the print process, it is necessary to use coated paper (the varnish is absorbed by the surface of an uncoated paper and its effect is minimized)

What is uncoated paper?

Uncoated paper has not been treated with anything on the surface, and will have a rougher feel to it. If the label is meant to be written on, then an uncoated surface is recommended. Uncoated substrates are often less expensive as well.

What is thermal printing and thermal paper?

A lot of customers in logistics and similar, use a thermal printer to print additional information on their labels. In short the thermal printer uses a hot beam to treat a heat sensitive layer in the thermal paper. This makes the material change colour and present the information. One has to bear in mind that the thermal material will continue to be heat and light sensitive after the treatment in the printer, and should only be used for short term purposes. A cheap thermal label is pretty unreadable after a couple of days in the sun!

What is thermal transfer?

This is not a material per say, but more of a printing method. In thermal transfer there is a heat sensitive colour ribbon which is heated by the printer and sticks to the front material of the label. It is almost like the ribbon in an old type writer. This method provides a resistant print which can resist a harsher environment, and can be used in combination with other substrates.

PE – Polyethylene

Polyethylene, PE-foil, is a flexible, soft and environmentally safe plastic material. In other words – it is very suitable for labels which needs flexibility, or has to be degradable. For instance, shampoo bottles one can squeeze or stickers for apples bought at the store. One can even eat this material, but we recommend food instead.

PP – Polypropylene

Polypropylene has many of the same properties as polyethylene, but is also stiffer. Therefore, it is easier to apply the label on a product using a mechanical label applicator. Its stiffness also makes the label production itself easier.
PP is also more resistant and is a cheaper and more environmentally safe alternative to vinyl or PVC. The resistance to external factors on the other hand is not high and the material is not recommended for long-term (several years) outer use.

PET – Polyester

If one needs a strong material for a more long-term use, then polyester is the solution! Polyester can withstand high and low temperatures, dirt, and rough treatment on a long-term basis. PET-labels can for instance be found as model- and serial number labels on household appliances.

PVC – Vinyl

Vinyl is somewhat stiffer than polyethylene, known for its durability and is a relatively expensive material. The use of this material has gradually decreased, mainly because the use of, and the manufacturing process is not good for the environment. On the other hand, in some cases vinyl is the best and safest material to use – for instance if one needs sustainability outdoors.