⏱️ Estimated reading time: 6 minutes
Intro Hook: Why Custom Packaging and Labels Matter More Than Ever
Ever picked up a product and noticed how its packaging instantly told a story? That’s not by chance. Whether you’re launching a new brand or refreshing an existing one, the packaging and labels you choose play a huge role in catching attention and building trust. And if you’re in London, where competition is fierce, having a reliable printer who understands your vision is priceless.
So many brands underestimate how much packaging influences customer perception. It’s not just about protection or information; it’s about creating an emotional connection right off the shelf. In a city like London, where shoppers might be overwhelmed by choices, the little details on your packaging can make your product linger in the mind longer. Custom packaging and labels serve as your brand’s silent salesperson, whispering your values, quality, and personality even before the product is opened.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through some practical tips for custom packaging and product label printing, share a quick example from our experience, and help you feel confident about your next print run with Newstyle Print. Whether you’re a small artisan or a growing business, these insights are meant to demystify the process and help you avoid common pitfalls.
⏱️ Reading time: 6 minutes · Updated for 2025 · UK Printing Guide
Helpful Tips for Successful Custom Packaging and Label Printing
1. Choose the Right Paper and Stock
Picking the right paper stock might sound straightforward, but it actually involves a bit of a balancing act. You want packaging that feels substantial enough to convey quality but also aligns with your brand ethics. For example, many London consumers are increasingly eco-conscious, so opting for recycled or FSC-certified boards not only makes your product feel premium but also signals responsibility. That tactile experience of a sturdy, textured recycled board can communicate a lot about your brand story without saying a word.
When it comes to labels, think about the environment your product will live in. Imagine a homemade jam jar sitting in a steamy kitchen—labels without a waterproof or laminated finish might peel or fade quickly. Choosing waterproof or laminated options adds durability, ensuring your product looks professional even after handling or exposure to moisture. Sometimes, matte finishes work better than gloss for a handcrafted aesthetic, but the choice ultimately depends on your brand’s vibe.
2. Pay Attention to Colour Accuracy
One of the trickiest parts of printing is that colours on your screen rarely match exactly what ends up on paper. Screens use RGB light, while printers rely on CMYK inks, so some shift is almost inevitable. London printers like Newstyle Print invest in professional colour management workflows to minimise surprises, especially when brand consistency is non-negotiable.
A practical tip is to always ask for a printed proof. This isn’t just formal procedure—it gives you a tangible example to hold, compare, and share with your team. It can reveal issues you might miss on screen, like colours looking duller than expected or text not standing out enough. Seeing the proof in hand might seem like a small step, but it often saves headaches (and money) down the line.
3. Design with Practicality in Mind
It’s tempting to focus solely on aesthetics, but packaging and labels need to be functional, too. Have you considered how the packaging folds? Will the labels stick well on curved surfaces or rough materials? These details can be make-or-break when it comes to the user experience.
For instance, if you’re packaging delicate chocolates, the box needs to protect the contents but also be easy to open and reseal if possible. Similarly, labels for skincare products often require adhesives that won’t come off with moisture or oils. We often encourage clients to send physical samples or mockups early in the process. This way, we can advise on technical tweaks before anything is printed in bulk, avoiding costly mistakes.
4. Include Bleed and Safe Zones in Your Artwork
This might sound technical, but it’s crucial. Bleed refers to extending your background colours or images beyond the edge of your design area, usually by about 3mm. Without sufficient bleed, trimming your packaging or labels can result in unwanted white edges, which look unprofessional.
Safe zones, on the other hand, are margins inside your artwork where important elements like text or logos are kept away from edges. This prevents accidental cropping, which can ruin a design or make text hard to read. If you’re not confident in setting these up, it’s perfectly fine to email your artwork to your printer for a quick, no-cost review. At Newstyle Print, we’re happy to help make sure your files are print-ready.
5. Consider Sustainability
It’s not just a buzzword anymore; sustainability has become a genuine factor influencing purchasing decisions. More consumers—especially in urban areas like London—look for brands that reflect their values, including environmental responsibility.
Choosing recycled, biodegradable, or FSC-certified materials can make your packaging stand out in a crowded marketplace. While it’s true that some eco-friendly options might carry a slightly higher price tag, many clients find the investment worthwhile for the goodwill and differentiation it creates. Plus, as more partner offer sustainable stocks, the cost gap is narrowing.
We work with a variety of eco-friendly materials and finishes, so whether you want a simple recycled carton or a label made with vegetable-based inks, we can point you in the right direction.
6. Plan Your Quantities Wisely
Ordering the right quantity can feel like a guessing game. Too few units often mean each item costs more, while ordering too many can leave you stuck with excess stock that might become obsolete or outdated, especially if your branding evolves.
It’s helpful to think about your sales channels, expected demand, and storage capacity. Perhaps you’re selling at local markets and online, so you want enough stock to cover a month or two without overcommitting. We’re happy to discuss your situation and recommend a quantity that balances cost-efficiency with flexibility.
Short Case-Style Example: Helping a London Artisan Food Brand
Not long ago, we teamed up with a small artisan food producer based in East London. They were passionate about crafting authentic, handmade preserves and wanted packaging that reflected their premium quality while staying true to eco-friendly values.
After a chat about their target customers and brand story, we suggested a recycled board for their box packaging—a choice that conveyed sustainability without sacrificing sturdiness. For their jar labels, we recommended waterproof matte laminated labels to withstand kitchen moisture and handling, ensuring the look remained pristine even after use.
We carefully reviewed their artwork, checking bleed and safe zones to prevent any layout mishaps. Then, we printed a proof so they could physically examine the colours and feel the texture of the packaging. They were pleasantly surprised at how the earthy tones they chose really “popped” on the recycled stock, and the tactile finish added an artisanal touch consistent with their hand-crafted ethos.
The results? Their products stood out at local farmers’ markets and online shops, garnering positive feedback from customers who appreciated the attention to detail. The client has since reordered twice, confident that their packaging supports their brand story effectively.
Conclusion: Bringing Your Packaging Vision to Life with Newstyle Print
Custom packaging and labels are more than just containers or stickers—they’re your brand’s first handshake with customers. When done thoughtfully, they communicate quality, build trust, and invite customers to explore what’s inside.
Getting your packaging right means considering everything from materials and design details to sustainability and production logistics. Working with a printer who listens and offers practical advice can make the process smoother and more rewarding. At Newstyle Print, we’ve helped hundreds of London businesses create packaging and labels that stand out, and we’d be happy to support your next project.
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FAQ
What is the typical turnaround time for custom packaging printing in London?
Turnaround times can vary depending on how complex your design is and how many units you order. Generally, most projects wrap up within 5-10 working days. If you’re in a rush, it’s worth asking—sometimes faster turnaround is possible if the schedule allows.
Can you help with artwork design or just printing?
While our main focus is printing, we do offer free artwork checks. This means we’ll review your files for common issues like bleed, resolution, and colour profiles and suggest tweaks if needed. However, we don’t provide full design services, so it’s best to have your artwork ready or work with a designer beforehand.
What types of finishes are available for product labels?
There’s quite a range, including matte, gloss, satin, and laminated finishes. If your product faces moisture or handling, waterproof and scratch-resistant coatings are especially helpful. We can advise on the best finish based on your product’s environment.
Is eco-friendly packaging more expensive?
Eco-friendly materials can sometimes carry a slight premium, but prices have become more competitive recently. Many customers find the sustainability benefits outweigh the modest cost difference, especially when it aligns with their brand values.
How do I know what paper weight to choose for my packaging?
Choosing paper weight depends on your product’s size, weight, and the feel you want to convey. For instance, lightweight products might need thicker boards to protect them, while heavier items might require even sturdier materials. We’re happy to discuss your needs and provide samples to help you decide.
Do you offer delivery across the UK?
Yes! Newstyle Print provides reliable UK-wide delivery. No matter where you are, we can get your packaging and labels to you quickly and safely.
Can I get a sample print before committing to a full run?
Absolutely. We recommend ordering a printed proof to check colours, material, and finish before going ahead with the full order. It’s a great way to avoid surprises.
Are there file format requirements for artwork submissions?
We prefer print-ready PDFs with embedded fonts and images at 300dpi. If you’re unsure, feel free to send your files over and we’ll check them free of charge.
Updated on 22 January 2026
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