Are your jam jars and homebrew bottles rocking the 'Pinterest fail' vibe? There is a quick fix to this. A pretty label can work magic, turning your homemade goodies into show-stoppers. Not only will they make your pantry look Insta-worthy, but they’ll also keep your creations neatly organised. 

Stick around, and we’ll share some super simple, creative (and totally budget-friendly) ways to make your bottles the envy of everyone who sees them!

Labelling Tips

Organisation or Decoration? 

Is your label just for your kitchen shelves, or are you planning to gift these creations to friends and family? 

Labels for your spicy chilli oil should scream "Don’t drink me!" while your elderflower cordial might call for a more whimsical touch. 

For pantry organisation, you might want something minimalist and practical, while gifts can benefit from a bit of extra flair.

Key Details

Whatever the purpose, remember to include the essentials—product name, date made, and maybe even a quirky tagline or flavour note.

If you’re gifting a hot sauce, you could add a playful warning like "Spicy enough to wake the neighbours!"

Adding information like shelf life or suggested uses can also be helpful.

Heat and Cold Resistance

If you’re labelling items that will be stored in the fridge or freezer, make sure the labels are adhesive enough to handle the cold, and use waterproof markers to avoid smudging. For bottles that will be exposed to heat, such as chilli oil, choose materials that can withstand higher temperatures to prevent peeling or fading.

Add a Personal Touch

Ribbons, twine, or even a wax seal can give your creations a personal flair—especially if it's a gift. Your homemade sloe gin just earned its royal robe! You could also consider using charms, dried flowers, or tiny bells for an added touch.

Adding a sprig of herbs like rosemary or lavender tied to the neck of a bottle can not only look beautiful but also hint at the flavours inside.

Colour Coordination for Wow Look

Coordinate the colour of your label with the colour of the contents or packaging. For example, a green label for basil-infused olive oil or a bright red ribbon for strawberry jam can make your creation look put-together and aesthetically pleasing.

Message Tips - Get Creative with Label Themes

Seasonal Vibe Labels

Use festive colours for Christmas chutneys or floral prints for spring elderflower cordials. Consider designing labels that feature holiday icons like holly leaves for winter or sunshine motifs for summer.

Inside Jokes or Puns

Adding humour always makes a label more memorable. How about "Spicy Sauce: Handle with Care!" or "Nana’s Secret Booze – Keep Out!" You could also consider puns related to the contents. For a jar of preserved lemons, try "When Life Gives You Lemons... Preserve Them!"

Coordinated Sets

Make a matching set for all your jams, oils, and vinegars—your pantry (or your gifts) will look extra posh. For gifting sets, think of a unifying design or colour palette, such as pastel hues for spring or rustic browns and greens for autumn.

Themes Based on Ingredients

Highlight the main ingredient of your creation. If you’re making something with lavender, incorporate lavender illustrations, colours, or even a sprig attached to the label. Thematic labels make the contents easy to identify and add a cohesive look to a set.

 

How to Waterproof Labels on Bottles & Jars

If you’re gifting or storing your bottles where they might get wet, waterproofing your labels is a must to keep them looking pristine. Here are some easy ways to waterproof your labels:

Use Clear Packing Tape

One of the simplest methods is to cover your label with clear packing tape. Smooth it over carefully to avoid bubbles and wrinkles. This will make your label splash-proof and prevent it from smudging.

Apply Mod Podge

You can use Mod Podge (a water-based sealer) to coat your labels. Simply apply a thin layer over the entire label, let it dry, and then apply a second coat. This method is great for adding a slightly glossy finish and keeping the label protected from moisture.

Waterproof Sealant Spray

For a professional finish, use a waterproof sealant spray. Make sure to spray in a well-ventilated area and follow the product instructions. A couple of light coats should be enough to keep your labels from running or peeling.

Self-Adhesive Laminating Sheets

These are a great option if you want your labels to be both durable and waterproof. Simply cut the laminating sheet to size and apply it over your label. Make sure to press down firmly to remove any air bubbles.

Printable Waterproof Labels

If you’re printing your labels, consider using waterproof label sheets. These sheets are specially designed to be resistant to moisture, and they’re perfect if you’re making a lot of labels at once.

Wax Paper Method

Another DIY option is to use wax paper to create a barrier. Place a piece of wax paper over the label and use a warm iron (set to low heat) to seal the wax to the label. This creates a thin waterproof layer that can help prevent smudging.

Whichever method you choose, make sure your labels are fully dry before applying them to your bottles, and always test to ensure they’re as waterproof as you need them to be!

Choosing the Right Label Size

A well-sized label helps your design shine and ensures everything is clear and readable. On the other hand, the wrong size can make even the best design look awkward or hard to read. 

Here’s a quick guide on selecting the best label size for different types of jars:

Small Jars (Spice Jars or Small Preserves)

These jars are best suited for small circular labels of around 40-50mm in diameter. This size ensures the label doesn’t overpower the jar and keeps the contents visible.

Medium-Sized Jars (Standard Jam Jars)

For medium jars, labels that are around 60-70mm in diameter work well. Alternatively, rectangular labels of about 80x50mm can give a classic look while providing more room for information.

Large Jars (Storage Jars or Large Pickling Jars)

For larger jars, consider using a larger rectangular label (e.g., 90x60mm) or oval labels. These allow more space for decorative elements, ingredients, and essential product details, ensuring everything remains legible.

Tall Bottles (Cordial or Oil Bottles)

Tall, narrow labels work well for bottles. A typical size might be around 40x100mm to provide a balanced look without overwhelming the sleek design of the bottle.

Tips for Sizing Your Labels

  • For curved jars or bottles, smaller labels are often better as they are less likely to crease or wrinkle.
  • Print a few different sizes on plain paper and place them on the jar or bottle to see which looks best before committing to a design.
  • If your product is visually appealing, such as colourful preserves or herbs, opt for a label that doesn’t cover the entire jar to let the contents shine through.

Selecting the right label size not only makes your product look professional but also ensures that all your hard work in creating the label is properly showcased. Make sure to match the label size to the type of container for the best effect.

Label Size Guide for Jars and Bottles

Here's a quick reference table to help you choose the right label size for different jars and bottles:

Jar/Bottle Type Jar/Bottle Size Range Suggested Label Shape Suggested Label Size
Small Jars (Spice/Small Preserves) 50-100ml Circle 40-50mm diameter
Medium Jars (Standard Jam) 150-300ml Circle/Rectangle 60-70mm diameter or 80x50mm
Large Jars (Storage/Preserves) 500ml+ Rectangle/Oval 90x60mm
Tall Bottles (Oils/Vinegars) 250-500ml Tall Rectangle 40x100mm
Beer and Cider Bottles 330-500ml Tall Rectangle 50x120mm
Bottles for Juices/Cordials 250-500ml Tall Rectangle 45x110mm
Bottles for Sauces/Salad Dressings 150-300ml Oval/Rectangle 70x90mm

Show Off Your Work

Gift It With Pride

Pair your labelled bottle with a handwritten note or pop it in a cute gift bag. It’s these small details that make homemade gifts so special. Consider adding recipe suggestions or serving tips for an added personal touch. For example, if you're giving away herb-infused olive oil, include a card with a recipe for a salad dressing that features it.

Share The Joy

Snap a photo of your beautifully labelled creations and share it with friends or on social media. Try hashtags like #HomemadeAndProud or #LabelLikeAPro! You could also make a photo collage of your creations through the seasons or show your process from crafting to labelling.

Labelling doesn’t have to be complicated—a little creativity goes a long way. Whether you’re gifting or keeping your jars for yourself, a great label can make your homemade goodies even more enjoyable. Now it’s your turn: grab some paper, a pen, and start labelling like a pro!