Rubber labels are tactile logo labels commonly made from silicone or PVC, with raised or recessed details. They can give clothing, bags and accessories a distinctive finish. Choosing the right label means considering the material, artwork, thickness, attachment and how the finished product will be used and washed.
This guide explains the options available from GB Labels, including moulded silicone and PVC labels and the separate raised silicone heat transfer range.
What are rubber labels?
“Rubber label” is a common description for a label with a rubber-like feel. It does not identify one particular material or attachment method. Always confirm the specification when requesting a quotation.
Moulded labels can incorporate a custom outline, contrasting solid colours and different levels of detail. Raised elements stand above the surrounding surface; recessed elements sit below it. These effects can make a logo distinctive without relying on a large number of colours.
Silicone or PVC: which should you choose?
Silicone and PVC are different materials. Silicone labels are often chosen for a soft, flexible feel, while PVC is another option for moulded logo patches. The finished firmness, thickness and flexibility depend on the particular construction, so compare representative examples.
Tell us whether the label will sit on a soft garment, a structured bag or an area that bends and stretches. A sample that looks suitable on a desk may feel different once attached to fabric. Confirm the actual material rather than assuming every product described as a rubber label is silicone.
Moulded labels and raised silicone transfers are different products
A moulded label is a separate piece with an agreed attachment method. A raised silicone heat transfer is designed to bond directly to compatible fabric using heat and pressure. Decide which format suits your garment before using one product's ordering details to plan another.
| Check | Moulded | Transfer |
|---|---|---|
| Format | A separate silicone or PVC label. | A raised silicone design bonded to fabric. |
| Fit | Agree the attachment and any sewing channel. | Check fabric suitability and heat-press settings. |
| Order | Minimum 1,000 pieces. | Minimum 250 pieces. |
| Time | Confirm with your quotation. | Typically 12–14 working days after digital approval. |
These details relate to the current product ranges. Confirm your specification, approval stage and delivery requirements when requesting a quote.
Where can rubber labels be used?
- Clothing and sportswear: exterior logos on jackets, hoodies and activewear where a tactile finish suits the design.
- Bags and accessories: branding on suitable panels, with the label size and attachment matched to the construction.
- Workwear and outdoor clothing: logos specified for the expected washing, exposure and wear.
- Zip details: custom zipper pulls where the shape and fastening suit the zip and product.
Choose placement carefully. A thick patch can feel bulky at a seam or uncomfortable against skin, and its stiffness may affect a lightweight or stretchy garment.
Planning the artwork, colours and depth
Send your logo with the intended finished width and height. Simple shapes, clear lettering and enough space between details help make the design readable. Very small text, fine gaps, photographic artwork and gradients may need adapting for a moulded label.
Specify the base colour and each raised or recessed area. Pantone references can help communicate your colour requirements, but agree how colours will be assessed in the actual material. A screen preview cannot establish the finished texture, flexibility or exact appearance.
Discuss thickness and any border or sewing channel before approving the design. A sewing channel is a thinner area intended for stitching; it needs to be included in the construction rather than improvised after production.
How should rubber labels be attached?
Sew-on labels
Confirm where stitching should run and allow enough space around the artwork. The label thickness, sewing channel, fabric and seam construction all matter. Ask the person attaching the labels to assess the proposed specification before ordering a full batch.
Self-adhesive labels
A peel-and-stick backing can suit positioning or temporary, light-duty applications on suitable clean surfaces. It should not be assumed to provide permanent attachment through regular washing. Confirm the surface and intended use when discussing backing options.
Heat-applied branding
Choose a product specifically designed for heat application. Follow its supplied instructions and check compatibility with the garment, including coatings, stretch and heat sensitivity. A heat press gives controlled heat and pressure; a general material temperature limit is not an application instruction. Test the complete combination before production.
GB Labels supplies labels and transfers. Arrange garment attachment separately and confirm who will carry it out.
Washing, comfort and durability
Silicone and PVC labels can be suitable for everyday garment branding, but performance depends on the formulation, design, backing, attachment and use. Avoid treating a rubber label as indestructible, stain-proof or suitable for every chemical or washing process.
Share the intended washing and drying conditions, abrasion, sunlight exposure and any contact with salt water or pool water. Ask what checks are appropriate for your proposed specification. A water-resistant label does not make stitch holes, seams or the garment itself waterproof.
Check the finished sample for comfort in its actual position. The material name alone does not establish skin suitability or guarantee that a wearer will experience no irritation.
What should you include in a quote request?
- Format and material: moulded silicone, PVC or a raised silicone heat transfer.
- Artwork and dimensions: logo, width, height, colours, shape and desired depth.
- Garment and placement: fabric type, stretch or coatings, and where the branding will sit.
- Attachment and care: sewing requirements or heat application, plus expected washing and use.
- Quantity and deadline: number of pieces, required delivery date and any sampling needs.
Ask whether the quotation includes tooling, artwork setup, sampling, VAT and delivery. Check what the approval covers: an emailed digital sample is different from a physical sample. Confirm any extra cost and time for a sample made with your own artwork.
Our label sample packs can help you compare finishes. If a lighter textile label would suit the garment better, our printed versus woven label guide explains those alternatives.
Rubber label FAQs
Are all rubber labels made from silicone?
No. The term can cover different rubber-like branding products, including silicone and PVC labels. Confirm the material and construction in the quotation.
Can I iron on any rubber label?
No. Only use a label or transfer specified for the proposed heat application. Check the supplied application instructions and the garment's suitability.
Can I order fewer than 1,000 pieces?
The current moulded silicone/PVC range starts at 1,000 pieces. The separate raised silicone transfer range starts at 250, so discuss which format suits your project.
Ready to plan your rubber labels?
Send GB Labels your artwork and requirements. Our team can help you choose the material, format and attachment specification, then provide a quotation and confirm the production timetable.
