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Print your own labels

Use labels to add flair to your outgoing mail, organizing projects, luggage and more.
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Content starts here

»  Introduction
»  What you'll need to get started
»  Steps for printing labels
»  Tips for printing labels
»  Inspiring label ideas
»  Learn more

kitchen labels


Introduction

Did you know that your HP printer can double as a label-making machine? In this article, we’ll give you step-by-step instructions for creating your own labels, resources for finding a variety of label designs and templates, and ideas for using labels to add personal flair to so much that you do.


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What you'll need to get started

Woman and daughter printing

The HP Photosmart C8180 All-in-One can handle almost anything, including vibrant labels!

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It doesn’t take much to make your own labels.

  • Printer
    An inkjet or laser printer. 
  • Label paper
    Available at any office supply store. Don’t forget to check the labels to confirm compatibility with your printer type.

Steps for printing labels


Label test print
Hold labels in front of your test print to make sure they line up.
  • Choose your design
    Download a label design from the HP Activity Center or create your own using Microsoft Word. In Word, go to File > Project Gallery > Labels to make a customized template. The program will even tell you the specific label sizes to buy.
  • Test print
    Do a test printout on regular paper.
  • View test
    Hold the test printout up to the labels (near a light source) and make sure they align properly.
  • Make adjustments
    You may need to adjust the font size or margins and reprint until the test printout is aligned with your labels.
  • Load labels
    Load label paper into the printer. (See your printer’s manual for loading instructions. If you don’t have your printer manual, you may be able to download a manual from HP Support. )
  • Print
    Let the printed labels dry completely before affixing them.

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Tips for printing labels

Font readability example
Thinner, simpler fonts make easy-to-read labels.
  • Inkjet or laser?
    Many labels are specifically for a laser printer or an inkjet printer. Confirm that your labels are compatible with your printer type before you begin.
  • Load labels flat
    Bent or wrinkled labels may cause a paper jam.
  • Make your label readable
    For easier reading, use thinner fonts, avoid bold and curly-cues, and set the size to at least 8 pt.

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Inspiring label ideas

Vintage product labels
Vintage handcrafted product labels make food look as good as it tastes.

Jet setter luggage tags
These luggage tags make your bags a cinch to spot.


  • Good looking cooking
    Add extra appeal to your kitchen creations with Vintage handcrafted product labels. Your homemade jams, tomato sauces and flavored oils will be more special when enhanced with your own personal touch.
  • Travel in style
    With Jet setter luggage tags, your suitcases will stand out from the rest. Clearly labeling bags makes them more secure, too.
  • Add zip to the mail
    -  Personal
    Why not add a little color to your envelopes and packages with Stripes labels?
    - Work
    Business doesn’t have to mean bland with Professional label templates – so many designs to choose from!

More ideas
  • Recycling
    One container for paper, another for glass. Make labels to keep them all straight.
  • Storage
    Find what you need faster by creating inventory labels for the outside of your storage boxes.
  • Yard sale
    Price your items to sell.
  • Party
    Label gifts and party favors. Plus print out names for your place cards.

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Learn more

Free online classes

Take a free online class.  HP offers classes to teach you how to use your products in fun, new ways. 

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Related links

»  See all articles
»  Printer buying guide
»  FREE print projects
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