Can Avery Labels Be Used On Candles?

Using custom labels can be a great way to add personality and flair to handmade candles. Avery labels are a popular option for DIY candle makers because they offer an extensive selection of label sheets in different sizes, materials, and designs. But an important consideration is whether Avery labels can withstand the heat of candle wax. The wax needs to reach and maintain temperatures around 185°F to properly adhere to the glass and burn cleanly. This article provides tips on choosing the right Avery labels for candles, preparing the candles and labels, application techniques, and adding decorative effects. With the proper selection and application method, Avery labels can be an easy, affordable option for creating stylish, personalized candle labels.

Are Avery Labels Heat Resistant?

Standard Avery labels are designed to be durable and withstand a variety of conditions. However, not all Avery labels can resist high temperatures from candles or other heat sources.

According to Avery’s product details, their standard address and shipping labels are heat resistant up to 200°F when adhered to a surface. This makes them suitable for short exposures to moderate heat, like boiling water or a hot oven. But candle flames can reach over 1,000°F, which exceeds the heat tolerance of basic Avery labels.[1]

For labels on candles, choosing a specialty high heat resistant Avery label designed for high temperature exposure is recommended. Avery offers durable labels made from materials like polyester that have adhesive built to withstand temperatures over 500°F. These types of labels are ideal for direct contact with candles to resist melting or peeling off.[2]

So when labeling candles, opt for Avery’s heavy duty, high temperature labels instead of standard labels. This ensures the labels will hold up to prolonged heat exposure from candle flames without deteriorating or detaching from the candle surface.

Choosing the Right Avery Label

When selecting an Avery label for candle labeling, it’s important to choose a product made from materials that can withstand heat and adhere properly to candle surfaces. Some top options to consider include:

• Avery Clear Easy Peel Address Labels – These transparent labels work great on candles since you can still see the candle color underneath. The adhesive is strong enough to stick well to waxed and glass surfaces.

• Avery WeatherProof Address Labels – With an extra-aggressive adhesive, these white labels are ideal for adhesion to curved candles and withstand high temperatures. Their waterproof coating helps prevent ink from running or fading.

• Avery Round Labels – Available in matte white and transparent, these circle labels wrap nicely around curved containers. Select a gloss finish for an extra slick surface that resists wax and oil.

• Avery Shipping Labels – These durable labels have an extra-strong adhesive to adhere tightly to waxy, oily surfaces like candles. They resist moisture and abrasion.

Be sure to select labels sized appropriately for your candle container. Test different adhesives and materials to see which Avery product sticks best without peeling or fading when exposed to candle heat.

Preparing Candles Before Labeling

Proper preparation of the candle surface is crucial for labels to adhere well. Here are some tips for getting candles ready before applying labels:

Wash the candle container thoroughly with mild dish soap and water, then rinse and dry completely. This removes any oil or residue that could prevent labels from sticking properly. Wipe the surface with rubbing alcohol to further prep and clean (source).

If using previously burned candles, remove any wax drippings or residue with a plastic scraper to create a clean surface. Buff away any remaining wax film with a microfiber cloth (source).

Avoid touching the surface of the candle container with bare hands after cleaning. Oils from skin can be transferred and impact label adhesion. Handle candle jars with care until labels are applied.

Work in a dust-free area and ensure candles are fully dry before labeling. Any moisture or dust can compromise how well labels stick.

Following these tips properly preps the candle surface so labels can adhere tightly and neatly for an attractive presentation.

Applying Avery Labels to Candles

When applying Avery labels to candles, it’s important to follow some key steps to get the labels on straight and avoid air bubbles or wrinkles:

1. Make sure your hands are clean before handling the labels. Oils from your skin can affect how the label adheres. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water and dry them completely.

2. Carefully peel the label from the liner starting from one corner. Only touch the outer edges of the label to avoid getting oils on the adhesive.

3. Position the label where you want it on the candle. Use a ruler or straight edge as a guide if needed to keep the label straight. Gently press down on the center of the label and smooth it outward from the middle to adhere it.

4. Use your fingertip or a plastic applicator to rub firmly over the entire label, pushing out any air bubbles or wrinkles from underneath. Take care not to scratch or damage the label surface when doing this.

Following Avery’s recommendations, start applying labels from the bottom and work up for straight alignment [1]. Keep labels 1⁄4 inch from candle seams and edges. For small votive or taper candles, hold the candle and turn it as you apply labels to make sure they go on evenly.

Taking the time to properly apply Avery labels will give your labeled candles a polished, professional look. Follow these tips for getting labels positioned perfectly every time.

Label Positioning Tips

Proper label placement is important for making your labeled candles look professional and neat. Here are some tips for positioning your Avery labels on candles:

For round jars, position the label in the center of the jar, aligned straight vertically. This creates visual balance and draws the eye to the label design (source).

On square or rectangular jars, place the label on the front center. Make sure the label is completely straight and centered. Avoid placing labels on the lid or top of the candle, as this can interfere with lighting the wick (source).

When labeling tins or containers with flat sides, align the label exactly in the middle of one side. Keep it centered and straight for a clean look.

Be sure there is at least 1⁄4 inch of space between the label’s edge and the top and bottom of the jar. This helps it look balanced. Don’t place labels over seams or ridges on the container.

When using multiple small labels on a candle, arrange them symmetrically for visual appeal. For example, put one at 12 o’clock and one at 6 o’clock.

Always take your time applying labels. Place them slowly and methodically for accurate positioning. If needed, gently peel up and reposition to get it just right.

Making Labels Adhere to Candles

Getting labels to adhere properly to candles can be tricky. The wax surface presents a unique challenge. However, there are some techniques you can use to get your Avery labels to stick well to candles:

Let the candle cure completely before applying labels. Allow at least 24-48 hours for the wax to fully harden and cool after pouring candles. Applying labels to warm wax can cause bubbling and poor adhesion. According to Avery’s blog, letting candle wax cure completely before labeling is crucial for success.

Clean the candle surface thoroughly before applying labels. Remove any oil, dust, or debris from the wax so the label adhesive sticks directly to the candle surface. Gently wipe the candle with a clean cloth dampened slightly with rubbing alcohol.

Use a high-tack permanent adhesive option when ordering Avery labels for candles. The standard permanent adhesive works well for most surfaces but a high-tack option formulated for difficult materials will adhere best to waxy and uneven textures according to label supplier 48HourPrint.com.

Apply firm pressure when positioning labels onto candles. Don’t be afraid to smooth the label aggressively to push out air bubbles and maximize contact between the adhesive backing and wax surface. Use a clean cloth or your fingertip to rub the label firmly onto the candle.

Consider using a spray adhesive like 3M Super 77 to supplement the label adhesive. After positioning the label, lightly mist the back of the label and candle surface to reinforce the bond. Allow a minute for the adhesive spray to become tacky before firmly fixing the label in place.

Avoid wrapping labels around the full circumference of candles whenever possible. The seam where ends meet is vulnerable to peeling or lifting over time. Opt for labels that go no more than halfway around candles for best longevity.

Avoiding Air Bubbles and Wrinkles

When applying labels to candles, air bubbles and wrinkles are common imperfections that can affect the appearance. Here are some tips for avoiding them:

To prevent air bubbles, rub the candle surface briskly with a lint-free cloth like microfiber immediately before applying the label. This removes any dust or residue so the label can adhere smoothly. Slowly apply the label by gently smoothing it out from the center to the edges. Don’t stretch or pull too tightly. Use a credit card or application tool to rub out any remaining air pockets.

For rounded candles, start by applying the center of the label and working outward. According to Avery experts, this allows the label to lay flat and avoids creases from the wrap-around effect¹. On textured candles, apply extra pressure with your application tool over uneven surfaces. Consider trimming labels to size if they overlap seams or embellishments.

Choose a label designed for high heat like Avery Weatherproof labels. The adhesive is formulated to resist softening, which can cause loosening or wrinkling when candles get warm. Print on coated paper, which stands up better to heat compared to standard paper.

Adding Effects to Labeled Candles

Once your Avery labels are affixed to candles, there are creative ways to enhance the labeled design.

Consider tying raffia or twine around the candle in a coordinating color. This adds texture and visual interest. For a rustic look, use burlap ribbon. Satin ribbon provides an elegant accent.

Add charm by tying small embellishments onto the bow, such as buttons, shells, beads, pine cones, or dried flowers. Mini bells can provide a delightful tinkling sound when the candle is moved.

Press small sequins, glitter flakes, or sand into the candle wax around the base, being careful not to get embellishments too close to the wick. This creates a sparkling effect.

Affix tiny rhinestones to the label for some shimmer. Metallic rub-ons in shapes like stars or circles can also embellish a printed label.

Punch shapes from coordinating scrapbook paper and adhere them around the label. Punch small circles to make a wreath, or cut longer strips for a floral stem effect.

These creative touches personalize a candle while complementing the label shape and design. Let your imagination run free!

Summary

When using Avery labels on candles, the most important considerations are choosing a heat-resistant Avery label, properly preparing the candle surface, carefully applying the label, and preventing air bubbles and wrinkles. Test labels on an inconspicuous spot first to ensure they adhere and withstand heat without issues. Position labels with space between them and away from the wick and seam. Press labels down firmly right after application and go slowly to avoid trapping air underneath. With care, Avery labels can successfully be used to customize candles and make them unique.

In summary, Avery labels are a viable option for labeling candles if the right heat-resistant variety is selected. Preparation and careful application are key to getting labels to stick properly without problems from heat exposure. When in doubt, test labels first before labeling an entire batch of candles. With some trial and error, Avery labels can provide customizable and professional-looking results on candles.