You have chosen the yarn, checked every stitch and made something worth giving. A label is a small finishing touch that tells people who made it — and helps them find you when they would like another.
Whether you are preparing for a Christmas craft fair or making gifts for family, our friendly GB Labels team can help you choose labels that feel right for your work.
Choosing labels for handmade items
Personalised woven labels are a lovely starting point for knitters, crocheters and sewists. Choose your wording and available colours in our online builder. The finished label size is 20mm × 60mm, so keep your message easy to read.
If you have a logo or need a particular size, fold or finish, explore our bespoke woven labels. Printed cotton labels offer another look, while swing tags give you extra space for a message or the story behind your make.
Not sure which you would prefer? Our free Standard Sample Pack lets you compare woven, cotton, satin and other label samples before you choose. UK postage is free on the Standard pack.
What to put on your label
Keep it short. On a small label, less really is more.
- Your name or brand name. Make this the clearest part of the design.
- Where to find you. Add your website or social handle if there is room for it to remain readable. Longer details can go on a swing tag.
- A little personality, if you like. Try “Made with love by…” or “Handmade in Derbyshire” — provided it accurately describes your work.
Keep fibre composition and washing instructions on a separate wash care label where practical, so your main brand label stays uncluttered. Make sure the information matches the materials and construction of the item.
A quick word on labelling when you sell
Branding and product information do different jobs. If you sell textile products such as clothing, fibre composition generally needs to be labelled correctly. There are exemptions and extra requirements for some products, so check the current textile-labelling guidance for what you sell.
Useful washing instructions help customers care for your work. Our wash care labels guide explains common symbols. Descriptions such as “handmade” and claims about where something was made should also be accurate and honest.
Planning labels for Christmas markets
Start with the date of your first market, rather than Christmas Day. Allow time to choose your labels, approve the design, receive your order and sew the labels into your finished pieces.
- Choose your style. Order samples and try the size and texture against your fabric or knitwear.
- Prepare your wording or artwork. For bespoke labels, our team offers free artwork setup and guidance. We can advise on size, colours and folds.
- Confirm your deadline before ordering. Bespoke woven labels usually take 5–9 working days after artwork approval. Allow additional time for a pre-production sample, delivery and attaching the labels.
- Leave a little breathing room. Seasonal demand and design changes can affect timing. Ask us to confirm the current lead time for personalised builder labels or other products.
Have a fair booked for November or December? Tell us the date when you get in touch and we will confirm what is achievable before you order.
A thoughtful gift for the maker in your life
Know someone who sews, knits or crochets? A set of personalised woven labels with their name on makes a thoughtful present. Our builder range starts at £26.49 for 50 labels, including VAT; delivery is calculated at checkout.
Here are a few wording ideas:
- Made with love by Mum
- Handmade by Nana Jean
- Stitched by Sophie
- Knitted with love
Check the spelling carefully and choose colours that suit their favourite makes. The builder preview is for illustration only; finished labels may differ slightly in colour, scale and positioning.
Quick questions
What is a good label for handmade knitwear?
A soft damask woven label is a good option to explore. The best fold and position depend on your garment: a loop fold can fit into a seam, while end folds give a neat finish when sewing a label onto the fabric. Try a sample against your knitwear and ask us if you are unsure.
How long do woven labels take?
Bespoke woven labels normally take 5–9 working days after artwork approval. Pre-production samples require extra time. Check the current lead time for personalised builder labels separately and allow time for delivery.
What is the minimum order?
Bespoke woven labels with your logo start from 100 pieces. The personalised woven-label builder starts with a pack of 50 labels from £26.49, including VAT.
Can I iron labels on instead of sewing?
Iron-on backing is available for suitable flat bespoke woven labels. It needs to be specified when ordering. Check that your fabric can tolerate the required heat and follow the application instructions supplied. It is not an option on every label.
Do I need a care label to sell handmade clothes?
Do not confuse washing instructions with fibre-composition information. Most textile clothing needs accurate fibre labelling, even when it is handmade. A separate care label is a practical place to include helpful washing instructions too. Check the rules for your specific product before selling.
Join the GB Labels Family
We are a family-run UK company based in Derby, and we love seeing what our customers create. Share your labelled makes with #GBLabelsFamily — we would love to see them.
Visit our sample-pack page to compare finishes and join the GB Labels Family newsletter for label advice, product news and our current welcome offer.
Need a little guidance? Call 01332 460664, email info@gblabels.co.uk or use the WhatsApp button on our website. Our friendly team will help you choose a finishing touch that feels like you.
Happy making, and happy Christmas!
The GB Labels family
