The Great Labeling Debate: Iron-On vs. Sew-On Labels

July 13 2023, by OuterBox, 6 min reading time

When it comes to labeling clothing and fabric items, there are two camps: Iron-On vs. Sew-On labels. While both options provide a way to add personalization and identification to your belongings, choosing the right labeling method can be a bit of a debate. Whether you're firmly in one camp or the other – or you're new to labeling and just want to know which is better – this article provides a fresh take on the sew-on vs. iron-on labels debate, explaining the pros and cons of each type. Once the dust has settled, you can head over to Name Maker to get all the personalized labels your craft requires!

The Purpose of Fabric Labels

Fabric labels are small tags or labels attached to clothing or other textile products. Manufacturers use sew-on labels to provide important information about the item's material composition and care instructions. Handcrafters use clothing labels to personalize the products they create. Sew-on and iron-on labels are also used on homemade gifts to remind a friend or family member of who made that special something for them. Custom-printed logo labels include the company's name or the individual who created the clothing, accessory or home décor piece.

Sew-On & Iron-On Labels for Clothes

If you've ever sent a child to camp, you're undoubtedly familiar with the task of creating name labels for all your kid's clothing and personal items. Camp can be chaotic, and kids – especially when they're away from their parents – aren't concerned about keeping track of their belongings. Custom sew-on labels (or iron-on labels) are the solution. Other situations that may require you to add name labels to articles of clothing include:

Nursing and long-term care facilities
Daycares
Dormitories
Sleepovers

Sew-On vs. Iron-On Labels: The Pros and Cons of Each

We can all agree that personalized fabric tags – whether sew-on vs. iron-on labels – are pretty special. They add an elegant touch to finished garments and make the creator feel like a pro. Many times, the choice of iron-on vs. sew-on labels is simply a matter of personal preference. If you're on the fence as to which kind to use, consider these points:

Tools: If you don't have a sewing machine but you're in possession of an iron, the choice has just been made for you. If you don't have either one, it's time to invest in an iron or a needle and thread (if you have the patience to sew labels by hand).
Time: Let's face it, it's a lot faster to run an iron over a piece of fabric than to set up your sewing machine and affix a label.
Material: If you're adding the label to a delicate fabric like silk, satin or wool, sew-on labels are a better bet. The last thing you want to do is scorch your fabric after you've gone to all that hard work.
Wear Factor: Is your label being attached to clothing that will be spending a lot of time in the water or exposed to sweat? Repeated exposure to moisture can take its toll on iron-on labels. Bathing suits, gym clothes and workout gear are best tagged with sew-on labels.
Accessibility: You may discover that hard-to-get-at places are better candidates for iron-on labels. Some sewing machines can get into tight spaces, but if you're having trouble maneuvering the machine, it may be time to get out the iron. Odd-shaped garments are also better candidates for the iron.
Permanence: Not all fabric labels need to stand the test of time. If you're not concerned that the label may come unstuck at some point in the future, iron-on labels are a great time-saving solution. If you want your handcrafted item to become on heirloom, you're better off with sew-on labels.

Frequently Asked Questions About Iron-On vs. Sew-On Labels

Following are answers to common questions about iron-on vs. sew-on labels. Please let us know if you have any additional questions or concerns.

Are Sew-On and Iron-On Labels for Clothes Removable?

Sew-on labels can be removed by carefully cutting or unpicking the stitches used to attach them to the garment. You can generally remove iron-on labels for clothes by carefully peeling them off or by using a hot iron to melt the adhesive.

What Are Custom Sew-on Labels?

Custom sew-on labels are personalized labels attached to clothing or other textile items by stitching. They can be customized with various text, logos and colors to suit your needs.

What Materials Are Used to Make Fabric Labels?

Fabric labels are made from various materials, including cotton, polyester and satin. The choice of material will depend on the desired look and feel of the label, as well as the garment's fabric and intended use.

Name Maker Wins the Debate Over Iron-On vs. Sew-On Labels

Whether you've decided to choose iron-on vs. sew-on labels (or vice-versa), we're here to help. Name Maker has all kinds of labels to meet the needs of businesses, local crafters and individuals who need to identify articles of clothing and other belongings. We custom-design labels to include your name, company logo and/or personalized messaging. We even have graphics to spice up the presentation. Find the best iron-on labels and sew-in labels today in the style that works best for you!

Shop Iron-On & Sew-On Labels