What Makes a Shape Special in Label Printing

Special shape labels are any shape outside the four standard types (circle, square with 0.125″ radius, rectangle with 0.125″ radius, or oval). This includes shapes with sharp square corners, unique contours, and completely custom outlines designed to match your brand’s identity.

Like all labels, special shapes are cut with metal dies made specifically for your dimensions and outline. Because these shapes are less common, they often require a new die purchase, a one-time investment that you can reuse for future orders. Certain “common” special shapes, such as lip balm labels, are shared among multiple customers and may already be in stock.

Die cost varies based on size and complexity, including the number of gear teeth required. More teeth can improve cut precision on intricate designs but may add to tooling expense. Choosing a special shape is a strategic way to boost shelf appeal, communicate brand personality, and fit unusual packaging forms.

The Branding Power of Special Shape Labels

When your brand demands more than standard shapes can offer, custom and special shape labels provide limitless design possibilities. These labels can be cut to match your logo silhouette, packaging profile, or a completely original concept.

Special shapes help products stand out in crowded markets by breaking from the typical square or rectangular look. Whether you’re creating a premium cosmetic line, a playful beverage brand, or limited edition packaging, a unique contour immediately catches the eye. From an engineering standpoint, our team ensures that even intricate shapes are production ready, with the right die gear teeth and layout to maintain quality and efficiency.

Columbine Label Tapered Containers Gin

Unique, Brand-Defining Shapes

Create a label outline that matches your product or logo for instant shelf appeal. Distinct shapes strengthen brand recognition and make your packaging memorable to customers.

Columbine Label Jars Jam

High Brand Impact

Special shapes naturally draw the eye, setting your product apart from competitors and encouraging shoppers to pick it up. Ideal for premium, limited-edition, or seasonal packaging.

Natural Kraft Labels - gummy bears

Perfect Fit for Unusual Packaging

Custom shapes allow labels to fit curves, tapers, and multi-surface containers with precision, ensuring smooth application and a polished, professional appearance.

Flexible for Product Sets

Special shapes can be designed for coordinated front-and-back label sets on the same roll, streamlining application and ensuring both labels align perfectly for a consistent brand presentation.

Custom Die Cuts and Specialty Designs

Columbine Label Non Alcoholic Ginger Beer Labels

Custom Shaped Labels

These labels are cut to match any outline you can imagine! From intricate brand mascots to abstract designs. A custom silhouette creates instant shelf appeal and reinforces your product’s identity.

Sharp Corner Labels

Unlike standard shapes with a 0.125″ corner radius, these have true 90° angles. Crisp edges give a bold, modern look and can be the perfect match for certain packaging designs.

Bottle Label
Orange lip balm label created by Columbine Label Company.

Lip Balm Label Dies

A common example of a special shape, lip balm dies are made to wrap seamlessly around standard tubes. These may already be available in our inventory, saving you on tooling costs.

Label Sets (Front & Back Alternating)

Some products require both a front and a back label, applied in sequence on the same roll. Special shapes make it easy to create coordinated sets that match your container perfectly while maintaining brand consistency.

bottle front and back label set

FDA Compliance

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) guidelines provide direction on label size, placement and required food label information. Understanding and following these additional food label requirements are essential to avoiding delays and unnecessary costs.

Use Columbine Label Company for _______

There are new lid labels on the makeup packaging from RCMA.

Standard Shape Labels

Standard shape labels include circles, squares, rectangles, and ovals with a 0.125″ corner radius. They’re versatile, cost-effective, and often available in-stock for faster production and reliable, professional results across many industries.

Columbine Label Dog Food Labels

BOPP Labels

BOPP labels are durable, moisture-resistant, and ideal for products that face handling, refrigeration, or outdoor exposure. Their smooth surface delivers vibrant, long-lasting print quality, making them a versatile choice for food, beverage, personal care, and industrial applications.

A selection of Silky bath bombs with their new labels.

Paper Labels

Paper stock labels offer a classic, cost-effective option for product packaging. They’re ideal for indoor use, providing excellent print quality and a natural feel that works beautifully for everything from food jars to boutique products.

Columbine Label Leopold Bros Wine Stock Labels

Wine Stock Labels

Wine stock labels bring an elegant, textured look that elevates bottle presentation. Designed to convey sophistication, they offer excellent print quality and tactile appeal, making them a favorite for wineries and premium beverage brands.

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Print Types