Creating the right label is one of the most impactful things you can do to elevate your brand. Whether you're a small clothing business, an independent designer, or a creative hobbyist, custom clothing labels not only provide important product information, they also help express your identity and values.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the different types of clothing labels, the best materials, how labels are made, and what to consider when creating labels for different uses like sportswear, kids’ clothing, or even labels with QR codes.
Types Of Custom Clothing Labels
There are many types of custom clothing labels, each with unique benefits depending on your product style and audience. At Dutch Label Shop, we offer a full range of options tailored to different materials, finishes, and uses:
- Woven labels – Made by weaving threads together, woven labels are long-lasting, elegant, and ideal for high-quality or premium garments.
- Cotton labels – A great choice for natural and eco-conscious brands. Soft, breathable, and especially suitable for children's clothing or delicate items.
- Care labels – These provide essential washing, drying, and material information. They’re required in many markets and help customers care for your products properly.
- Printed labels – Perfect for detailed logos, small text, or multi-color designs. These are typically made using heat transfer or ink printing on soft materials like satin or Tyvek.
- DTF (Heat Transfer) labels – These use a cutting-edge print-and-transfer technique to create crisp, vibrant designs that bond well to fabric. Ideal for activewear and brand logos.
- Pre-made labels – For makers who need a quick, reliable solution, pre-made labels come in standard designs such as size tags or care instructions. They're a great option when you don’t need full customization but still want a professional finish.
If you’ve ever wondered how to make custom tags for clothing, starting with the right label type is the first step.
Custom Clothing Labels vs Standard Labels: What’s the Difference?
Not all labels are created equal. While standard labels are often mass-produced with generic text—like “Made in China” or basic size tags—custom clothing labels are designed specifically for your brand, your products, and your audience.
Here’s how they compare:
- Branding:
Custom labels are designed with your logo, font, colors, and message, making them a true reflection of your brand. Standard labels, on the other hand, are usually generic or non-branded. - Material Options:
With custom labels, you can choose from a wide range of materials such as woven, cotton, satin, or Tyvek. Standard labels typically come with limited material choices. - Functionality:
Custom clothing labels can include QR codes, care instructions, country of origin, and other useful information. Standard labels usually only list basic details like size or fabric content. - Design Flexibility:
Custom labels are tailored to match your product’s look and placement needs. Standard labels tend to be one-size-fits-all, offering little room for creativity. - Professional Impression:
Custom labels add polish and legitimacy to your garments, helping them stand out. Standard labels often feel basic and impersonal.
If you're looking to build a brand or add a thoughtful, professional touch to your pieces, custom labels for clothing offer unmatched flexibility and impact.
How Custom Clothing Labels Are Made
Understanding the production process of custom clothing labels can help you design smarter and order more confidently. Here's a simplified overview of how we create custom labels for clothing at Dutch Label Shop:
- Design submission – Upload your own design or use our online label maker to create one.
- Material and type selection – Choose your desired label style, material, fold type, and backing.
- Proofing – Our production team reviews and prepares your label for manufacturing, ensuring quality and clarity.
- Production – Depending on the type (woven, printed, DTF), labels are woven on looms or printed using thermal or ink methods.
- Cutting and finishing – Labels are cut, folded, and heat-sealed or sewn depending on your selected format.
- Quality control and shipping – Every label is inspected before we ship it to you—fast and globally.
Whether you’re just getting started or scaling up, understanding how to make custom clothing labels from idea to delivery is key to a successful product.
Custom Clothing Labels For Different Garment Types And Uses
Different garments need different label solutions. Here’s how we tailor labels for clothing based on specific use cases:
For Sportswear
Activewear needs labels that can stand up to sweat, movement, and frequent washing. We recommend:
- DTF labels – No itch, highly durable, and moisture-resistant
- Printed care labels – Seamless and comfortable
- Materials like Tyvek or satin for lightweight comfort
For Children's Clothing
Comfort and safety are essential. For kids’ garments, choose:
- Cotton labels – Soft, natural, and hypoallergenic
- Woven labels – Gentle edges with clear branding
- Easy-care printed labels for compliance and comfort
With QR Codes
Looking to integrate digital features? QR code labels let you:
- Link to care instructions, product pages, or sustainability credentials
- Provide authentication or brand experiences
- Track inventory or offer digital storytelling
You can design custom clothing labels with QR codes using our online tool—perfect for modern, tech-savvy brands.
Why Choose Dutch Label Shop
Dutch Label Shop is trusted by thousands of brands around the world. Whether you’re making boutique pieces or need custom labels for clothing in bulk, here’s why our platform stands out:
- Custom options – Design woven, printed, DTF, or cotton labels your way
- Easy-to-use online tool – No design skills needed
- Fast global shipping – From the USA and EU to wherever you create
- Low MOQs – Ideal for testing or small production runs
- Expert support – Our team reviews every design to ensure perfection
If you're searching how to make custom clothing labels that look great and last long, we’re here to help you make it happen—from inspiration to delivery.
Create Your Own Custom Clothing Labels Today
Whether you're making high-end fashion pieces, durable activewear, or soft labels for children's clothes, Dutch Label Shop has everything you need to create labels that reflect your vision.
Start designing your custom clothing labels now with our easy online platform, because your brand deserves to be seen, felt, and remembered.