What about printer ink for fabric labels?

[Former_Member]

I had ordered some labels to use, but I think I want to try and make my own to save money. Does anyone know about the printer ink? Is this safe to use?

Thanks

[Former_Member]

marking for future reference....

[Former_Member]

I would like to know too. I have been wanting to make my own lables.

[Former_Member]

The place I ordered mine labels from was abandoned before I got my labels good thing I didn't pay for them up front. But I would love to know if I can make my own.

[Former_Member]

Is the label going on the item or the packaging that covers the item?

[Former_Member]

I would be sewing the item on my items.

[Former_Member]

marking

[Former_Member]

Yes. It's been required to be lead free for quite a while. And it's CMYK ink, so it's on the exempt list. ( http://www.whatisthecpsia.com/?p=486 )

Though, it's water soluble so when printed directly on fabric it washes out.

[Former_Member]

I should specify - ink jet ink in the comment above.

[FayeMaloneDesigns]

Not so, I printed mine on Millikens printed treasures fabric. Followed the directions for heat setting, following someone elses sugesstions on heat setting them a couple of times and I tested them, and I don't have a problem. Of course if you use hot water, bleach, and whatever, what is going to hold up to that except woven labels.

[Former_Member]

I make my labels by using the mailing label feature on the computer then I print them on iron on paper from office depot ans then iron them on to fabric then sew them on. the iron on paper is for t shirts so i guess that should be safe and can be washed.

[bstudio]

I was thinking of giving that a try.

[Former_Member]

FayeMaloneDesigns

Interesting! I'll check it out.

[Former_Member]

I'm using the iron on technique too. I'm liking it until someone finds a reason to counter it.

[MamaFamilias]

Whether you buy them from someone else or make them yourself, the labels are printed with ink. I'm going with the assumption that since printer ink cannot contain lead it is safe and so am I. (I also haven't any problems with this washing out. Is might not last generations, but it should satisfy authorities.)

The only way to avoid the ink question would be to buy or make embroidered/woven labels.

[Former_Member]

Yes, I had thought about making some embroidered ones, but that is going to take alot of time. I was think I am just going to print my own and see what happens.

Thanks for all the posts!

[Former_Member]

FayeMaloneDesigns - I've thought more about the print to printable fabric option. Yes it would be easier. But I want my labels to last through washings, because they are a reflection of my company. (Not just selling them here on etsy, but in my products in my other store.) I'm glad you shared though - its a great solution for things that don't need to be washed much. Hopefully all this discussion will help people be able to find solutions!

Amievoltaire - I haven't found any reasons yet to counter it. I've looked! The manufacturer for the iron ons I use feels that their product is in the exceptions list.

Mamafamilias - inkjet ink is CMYK and on the exceptions list.

A thought in general on making your own labels. I'd recommend staying away from using an adhesive to keep the edges from fraying. Adhesives are exempt IF they can't be touched by a child. (I.e. in something) http://www.whatisthecpsia.com/?p=486

[FayeMaloneDesigns]

Avlor, I agree, woven labels are the best way to go, and for my designer labels I do use woven, as well as woven size and some of my fabric content and washing instruction labels. I think the only commercially printed ones are for dry clean only, which I rarely use. I chose to go with the print on fabric labels using the photo transfer quality fabric used for memory quilts, because of a time factor in getting the decision on labeling for small producers/crafters out of the CPSC and the lead time in having labels woven. The set up fee for a custom woven label is not without a cost, and we do not know if they will make changes in the future on labeling. It appears it might still be somewhat fluid, and they could come back with a defined format and type style/size.

[Former_Member]

FayeMaloneDesigns:

I actually wasn't endorsing woven labels at all. Though I agree they are both nice and costly.

I've chosen the iron on route and I know mine hold up well from my tests.

I applaud you for finding a solution that works for you. ;) Peace to you.

[MamasFeltFood]

Marking! Thanks so much for starting this thread kidnaroundcreations.

[Former_Member]

No problem MamasFeltFood. That is the other thing and I am glad you posted. Do we have to tag each item in the a set? I have felt food sets too and I didn't know if we could just tag one in the set or if we have to tag them all?

[MamasFeltFood]

From my understanding, we only have to put a tag on 1 item. There are a lot of things that I am not going to put a tag on because there isn't any room, like the strawberries.

[Former_Member]

kidaroundcreations and mamasfeltfood

It can be on 1 item of a set that always goes together like a pair of shoes. Of if it totally is a detraction to the item (like small finger puppets or hair bows) then you can put the label on the packaging.

[Former_Member]

Thank you so much Avlor. You just made my day!

[FayeMaloneDesigns]

You could also make a container/bag/basket that the food goes in. Then you label that and don't have to worry about the food.

Avlor, I hope you don't think I was getting upset with you, I wasn't. This has been quite a learning experience for all of us.