StickerYou Blog

When ordering custom roll labels for your products (also known as roll stickers), selecting the right material is just as important as the design itself. The material affects how your labels look, how they perform in real-world conditions, and how long they last on your packaging.

Roll labels are the most common format for product labeling because they’re efficient, consistent, and easy to apply at scale. But not all roll label materials behave the same way.

To help you choose the right option for your application, this guide breaks down the roll label materials currently available at StickerYou, what makes each one different, and when to use them.

What are Roll Labels?

Roll labels are labels supplied on a continuous roll, wrapped around a cardboard core (typically 3 inches in diameter). Each label is pre-cut and ready to peel and apply.

Because they’re designed for speed and consistency, roll labels are commonly used for:

• Product packaging

• Retail and eCommerce orders

• Food, beverage, and personal care products

• Inventory and fulfillment workflows

They can be applied by hand or used with labeling equipment, depending on volume.

Label Material Composition

Roll labels are made up of several layers that work together to ensure proper adhesion, durability, and print quality.

Face Stock

The face stock is the material your design is printed on. This is the visible surface of the label and plays the biggest role in how the label looks and performs.

Adhesive

The adhesive is what allows the label to stick to a surface. StickerYou roll labels are available with permanent or removable adhesive, depending on the material. Permanent adhesives are designed to stay put for the life of the product, while removable adhesives allow for clean removal from most smooth surfaces. 

Liner

The liner (also called the backing, or the carrier) holds the adhesive in place until the label is applied. It’s typically made from coated paper or film to allow the label to release cleanly during application.

Top Coat

Some roll labels include a top coat to protect the printed surface from scuffing, moisture, and wear. Top coats can also affect the final appearance, giving labels a glossy or matte finish. 

Core

The core is the cardboard tube around which the roll labels are wound. StickerYou roll labels come on a standard 3" core, making them compatible with most labeling setups. 

Types of Roll Label Materials

There are various types of materials used for roll labels, each suited to different packaging needs, environments, and budgets. Each one has unique characteristics that contribute to the label’s appearance, print quality, and durability.

Paper Roll Labels

Paper roll labels are a cost-effective option for dry, indoor applications.

• Printed on standard paper stock

• Best for short-term or disposable packaging

• Not waterproof or oil-resistant

Best for:
Dry goods, boxed products, and packaging that won’t be exposed to moisture

Removable Roll Labels

Removable roll labels are printed on glossy stock paper with a removable adhesive.

• Designed to peel off cleanly

• Less aggressive adhesive than permanent options

• Not intended for wet or high-friction environments

Best for:
Promotions, temporary pricing, limited-time packaging, or short-term labeling.

Are removable roll labels waterproof?
No, because they are paper-based, removable roll labels are best used indoors and away from moisture.

Durable Roll Labels

Durable roll labels are made from BOPP (Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene), a plastic film designed for performance.

• Waterproof and oil-resistant

• Tear-resistant and long-lasting

• Permanent adhesive

• Designed to tolerate temperature changes and handling

Best for:
Food, beverage, bath and body products, refrigerated items, and products exposed to moisture

What’s the difference between durable roll labels and regular paper labels?
Durable roll labels are waterproof and weather-tolerant, while paper labels can absorb moisture and wear down more quickly.

Clear Roll Labels

Clear roll labels are made from transparent BOPP film with permanent adhesive.

• “No-label” look

• Waterproof and oil-resistant

• White ink is used where needed to keep colors visible

Best for:
Glass jars, bottles, and packaging where the product itself should show through

Matte Roll Labels

Matte roll labels use BOPP material with a non-reflective finish.

• Smooth, glare-free appearance

• Durable and waterproof

• Permanent adhesive

Best for:
Minimalist branding, modern packaging, and designs where shine isn’t desired

Writable Roll Labels

Writable roll labels are designed specifically for writing by hand.

• Matte surface that accepts pen or marker

• Permanent adhesive

• Suitable for dry or refrigerated environments

Best for:
Expiry dates, batch numbers, scent names, or flavor notes added after printing

Eco-Safe Roll Labels

Eco-safe roll labels are paper-based and designed for brands prioritizing sustainability.

• Recyclable and compostable

• Lower environmental impact than plastic films

• Not waterproof

Best for:
Eco-conscious brands and dry, indoor packaging

Foil Roll Labels

Foil roll labels are made with a metalized, top-coated polypropylene film and permanent adhesive.

• Durable and waterproof

• Eye-catching metallic appearance

• Designed primarily for visual impact

Best for:
Premium products, limited editions, and packaging that need to stand out on shelves

What You Need to Know About Roll Labels

Roll labels are priced based on:

• Label size

• Quantity ordered

• Material selection

Unusual shapes or specialty materials may affect pricing. All roll labels are delivered on rolls, not as individual labels. If you have questions about sizing, materials, or which option is best for your product, StickerYou’s Live Chat team can help before you order.

How to Select Your Material

After uploading your design or creating one online, you’ll be able to choose your roll label material directly in the ordering flow.

Select the material that best matches:

• Your environment (wet vs dry)

• How long the label needs to last

• Whether you need removability or permanence

• The look and finish you want

If you’re unsure, durable BOPP roll labels are the most versatile option for most product packaging.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between cut labels and roll labels?

Cut labels are supplied individually or on sheets, while roll labels are supplied on a continuous roll for faster, high-volume applications. 

Are sheet or roll labels cheaper?

Roll labels typically have a lower cost per label at higher quantities, making them the more economical choice. 

Are roll labels sticky?

Yes, all roll labels include adhesive. Permanent options are designed to stay in place, while removable labels allow for easy removal on smooth surfaces.