Chloe Adams
Whether you're making candles as gifts or selling them, it's important to know how to affix labels correctly. Not only do you want your labels to look good, but they also need to comply with legal requirements and safety standards. In this guide, we'll cover everything from designing your labels to the application process, so you can ensure your taper candles have perfectly affixed labels every time.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Temperature of candles | Room temperature (20-25 degrees) |
| Cleanliness of candles | Cleaned with rubbing alcohol and dried with a lint-free cloth |
| Positioning of labels | Vertical seam or horizontal edge for alignment |
| Type of labels | Printed on a home computer or professionally designed |
| Adhesive | Double-sided tape or glue |
| Application | Apply from the centre outwards for round containers, from the edges for flat surfaces |
| Removal of bubbles | Use a flat tool, or poke a small hole with a stickpin |
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What You'll Learn
Preparing the candle surface
Clean the Candle Surface:
Before applying any labels, it is essential to clean the surface of your candle jar or tin thoroughly. Use rubbing alcohol (isopropyl alcohol) and a lint-free cloth to wipe down the surface. This will remove any dirt, dust, or residue, ensuring a strong bond between the label adhesive and the container. Allow the surface to dry completely before proceeding to the next step.
Cool the Candles:
Make sure your candles are entirely cooled to room temperature (approximately 20-25 degrees Celsius) before applying the labels. This is crucial for ensuring that the adhesive adheres properly to the candle container. Warm candle surfaces may interfere with the adhesion of the labels.
Brace the Candle Container:
To achieve a controlled and precise application, brace your candle container between two objects. You can use simple items like two blocks of wood, or even an empty egg carton to stabilize the jar. This will help keep the candle jar or tin completely still while you apply the label, reducing the risk of errors or misalignment.
Determine Label Placement:
Consider the placement of your label in relation to the top or lid of the candle container. Think about how the label will look with the lid on and off, and choose a position that complements both scenarios. Look for a vertical seam or horizontal edge to help with alignment. For flat surfaces, align the corner of the label with a straight edge to ensure a straight application.
Prepare the Label:
Wash your hands to ensure they are clean before handling the labels. Carefully peel the label from its backing, holding it by the outer edges to avoid touching the adhesive. If using clear labels, consider using lint-free gloves to prevent fingerprints on the backside of the label, which can be unsightly.
By following these steps, you will effectively prepare the candle surface for labelling, ensuring a neat and professional-looking final product.
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Choosing the right adhesive
Type of Adhesive
The type of adhesive you choose will depend on the surface you are applying the label to. For glass surfaces, a heat-tolerant adhesive is necessary due to the heat generated by the candle flame. Double-sided tape can be a good option for glass as it can withstand higher temperatures and is less likely to cause wrinkles in your labels. Glue, on the other hand, can be more challenging to work with on glass and may require additional preparation, such as sanding the glass, to ensure proper adhesion.
For candle jars or tins, an adhesive that forms a strong bond with the container is ideal. Isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol) can be used to clean and dry the surface, creating a better bond between the label adhesive and the container.
Adhesive Strength
Consider the strength of the adhesive to ensure it can withstand normal handling and prevent labels from shifting or falling off. Heat-tolerant adhesives are crucial, especially for candles, as the warmth generated by the flame can affect the adhesive. Choose an adhesive that can handle temperatures similar to those of the exterior of your container when the candle is lit.
Cure Time
Different adhesives have varying cure times, which is the time it takes for the adhesive to set completely. Typically, label adhesives need around 24 to 48 hours to cure fully after application. During this time, it is essential to maintain room temperature and avoid bumping or rubbing the labels to prevent lifting or bubbling.
Removability
Depending on your needs, you may want an adhesive that allows for easy removal and adjustment of labels. Double-sided tape, for example, offers the advantage of being relatively easy to remove and readjust. This can be beneficial if you need to make changes or corrections to your labels.
Label Material
The type of adhesive you choose may also depend on the material of your labels. For clear labels, it is essential to ensure the adhesive does not leave marks or fingerprints on the backside of the label, which can be unsightly. In such cases, using lint-free gloves during application is recommended.
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Positioning the label
If you are applying the label to a glass jar, look for a vertical seam or horizontal edge to help with alignment. For flat surfaces, such as a square tin or outer box, find a straight edge and align the corner of the label with it. When applying the label to a round container, start in the centre and apply pressure towards the outside to prevent creases. For flat surfaces, start at one of the edges and roll the rest of the label onto the surface, avoiding wrinkles. Once the label is flat, press hard from the centre towards the edge to smooth it out.
Brace your candle container between two objects to help control your application. You can use blocks of wood, a homemade jig, or even empty egg cartons to stabilise the candle. Make sure the application area is clean and dry before you begin. Use rubbing alcohol and a lint-free cloth to clean the surface of your candle jar or tin. This will help form a strong bond between the label adhesive and the container.
If you are using clear labels, cleaning your candle container will help prevent marks or blemishes from showing through the label. After applying the label, remember that label adhesives need approximately 24-48 hours to cure completely. Keep your candles at room temperature to prevent lifting or bubbling.
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Smoothing out creases
While affixing labels to taper candles, it is important to ensure that the labels are smooth and free of any creases or bubbles. Here are some detailed tips for smoothing out creases:
Choose the Right Adhesive
Using the correct adhesive is crucial to prevent creases. Opt for a heat-tolerant double-sided tape instead of glue, as it is easier to remove and readjust without damaging the label.
Prepare the Application Area
Before applying the label, make sure the candle jar or tin is clean and dry. Use rubbing alcohol and a cloth to clean the surface and ensure no dirt or residue is left behind. This step helps create a strong bond between the label adhesive and the container.
Brace the Candle Container
To achieve a straight application and minimize creases, brace the candle container between two objects for better control. You can use blocks of wood, a homemade jig, or even empty egg cartons to stabilize the jar.
Smooth the Label
When applying the label, start at the center and work your way outward, applying pressure toward the edges to prevent creases. Use lint-free gloves to avoid fingerprints on clear labels. Once the label is flat, press firmly from the center toward the edges to smooth it out.
Remove Wrinkles and Bubbles
If any wrinkles or bubbles appear, use a hard, flexible tool like a credit card or gift card. Lightly but firmly, push any creases or bubbles toward the edge of the label to remove them.
Weighted Method
If creases persist, try using a weighted object to smooth them out. Place the labelled candle jar on a flat surface and cover it with a thin cotton cloth. Lightly mist the cloth with water, being careful not to wet the label directly. Place a heavy, flat weight, such as books, on top of the cloth and leave it for 24 hours. This method is especially effective for thicker paper.
Ironing Method
Another way to remove creases is by using a clothing iron. Set the iron to the lowest temperature setting and gently iron over the cloth, first in the direction of the crease and then across it. Always keep a cloth between the iron and the label to prevent scorching, and never use the steam function, as it may cause warping and more wrinkles.
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Curing and storing
After applying your labels, it's important to give the adhesive sufficient time to cure and adhere properly. Typically, this process takes around 24 to 48 hours. During this time, maintain a consistent room temperature to prevent any issues like lifting or bubbling. It's also crucial to keep the candles undisturbed, avoiding any bumping or rubbing on the labels.
Once the curing process is complete, you can focus on storing your beautifully labelled taper candles. The key consideration here is to maintain a suitable storage environment. Keep your candles at room temperature, avoiding any extreme fluctuations that could impact the adhesive bond. Store them in a dry, stable location, ensuring they are protected from excessive sunlight, moisture, or other elements that might degrade the labels or the candles themselves over time.
Additionally, consider the positioning of your candles during storage. If you have limited space, brace your candles carefully to prevent them from toppling over. You can use various materials for this, such as blocks of wood, cardboard boxes, or even homemade jigs. This will ensure your candles remain stable and upright, reducing the risk of damage to the labels or the candles.
Proper storage practices are essential for preserving the quality of your taper candles and their labels. By maintaining optimal conditions, you can be confident that your candles will remain in optimal condition until they are ready for use or sale. Remember, the goal is to showcase your candles in the best possible light, and proper curing and storage practices are integral to achieving that goal.
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Frequently asked questions
There are several ways to transfer labels onto taper candles. You can use sticker sheets, glue, double-sided tape, or paper and milk. If you are using glue, be aware that it is very difficult to get glue to stick to glass, and it may wrinkle your paper label. If you are using double-sided tape, make sure it can handle getting as warm as the exterior of your container when the candle is lit.
The Fair Packaging and Labeling Act (FPLA) dictates the information that must be included on the outer packaging and main label of taper candles. This includes the statement of identity, the net weight, and the manufacturer identification. You may also want to include the type of wax, scent name, main fragrance notes, and average burn time.
Before applying your labels, make sure your candles are entirely cool to room temperature (roughly 20 degrees Celsius or 70 degrees Fahrenheit) to ensure that the adhesive of the labels properly adheres to the candle container. Clean the surface of your candle jar with rubbing alcohol and a lint-free cloth to prevent marks or blemishes from showing through clear labels. Brace your candle container between two objects to control your application better and ensure your label is straight.
It is imperative to understand the legal and industry requirements for candle labels before selling them. The FPLA assists consumers from misleading or incomplete product information and ensures transparency in labeling practices. In addition, safety information on candles is not legally required but is highly recommended and expected by most candle shoppers. Omitting a warning label could affect consumer trust and perception of your brand.
