How to make your own Sew-In Labels

If you like to sew for others, even your own children, you probably have considered purchasing those “cutesy” custom labels at one time or another. You can pick up standard sew-in labels at most craft/sewing stores but to get really custom labels you have to pay big bucks and get stuck with way more than you might need. Why not make your own?

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Transfer paper
• Scissors
• Printer
• Computer
• Iron
• Satan ribbon.

1. 

   Decide what size of ribbon you are going to use and which direction you want your label to run across the ribbon. Do you want the label to run horizontal or vertical across the ribbon. Be sure to choose a smooth satin ribbon.

2. Measure the ribbons width. You will want your design small enough to fit within the raised edge of the ribbon. Determine the length and width of your design.

3. 

   Depending on the type of transfer media you purchase they may provide you with a program to lay out your design. In most cases your text or artwork will have to be inverted (turned upside down) prior to printing it out. This might require a design software package. Design and print out a sample of your logo on plain paper to test first. Cut it out and lay it on the ribbon for sizing and make sure it’s exactly what you want – keeping in mind it will be upside down. If everything looks good, feel your page full and print out on your transfer paper.

4. 

   Use a paper cutter/trimmer to ensure you have straight edges on your transfer. Leave plenty of empty space on either side so that the film from the transfer paper will continue across the entire ribbon and not stop right after the printing does.

5. 

   Press ribbon to make sure it is flat. Then lay transfer over the center of the ribbon and press on following instructions that come with your paper. Cool.

6. 

   Remove backing and fold ribbon tag in half and sew where desired.

Tips & Warnings

• For adorable patterns to add your new labels too, check out http://www.makethemyourself.com.

[Susanh]

on 8/6/2008 Fantastic idea. I haven't yet tried sewing clothing, but I piece quilts. This might be a good idea for a quilt label too. I'll try it. 5*****

[Stuffedwithlove]

on 7/16/2008 7/16/08 This is a great idea, but I didn't have the program to flip the image for a transfer. I did have, however, some fabric to run through my printer. I printed my labels on the fabric, cut them apart, and sewed them into some garments I had made. Not quite as soft as the ribbons, but one step less in the process.Thanks for sharing.

[favefive]

on 2/15/2008 Thanks for the detailed instructions with photos. I need this for my daughter's archery gears.

[favefive]

on 2/15/2008 Thanks for the detailed instructions with photos. I need this for my daughter's archery gears.