Label Apeel Tips & Tricks: Using Shape and Back Printing to Drive Brand Engagement

Transcript

When most labels are squares or circles… sometimes the best way to stand out is to break the shape.

Hi, I’m Emily.

And I’m Stuart. Today, we’re looking at how shaped labels and reverse side printing can elevate your brand—visually and creatively.

Let’s start with shape. If your competitors are playing it safe with rectangles, using a custom shape can give you a real edge on shelf.

Shaped labels catch the eye. They disrupt the norm and invite curiosity. It’s a small design change with a big impact.

And crucially—it’s cost-effective. You’re not adding materials or finishes, just opting for a different cutter. A simple way to add uniqueness and energy to your packaging.

It’s all part of getting that ‘designed to belong’ feel—where the label and the bottle feel like one seamless unit. That level of detail tells your customer they’re buying something special.

That’s where shaped labels really shine. We can custom design the die-cut to follow the contours of the bottle perfectly, ensuring it fits flush with no bubbles, wrinkles, or distortion.

Exactly. Many premium bottles are uniquely moulded—whether it’s a taper, an embossed area, or an unusual curve. And a standard label just won’t sit right.

Of course, a shaped label isn’t just about standing out—it’s also about fitting in.

Whether it’s sharp contours, soft curves, or something playful—a custom shape adds personality. It makes your product feel intentional.

And when your product feels more considered, it becomes more desirable. It tells the consumer, 'this is something special.

Let’s talk about reverse side printing. It’s an underrated way to add depth, detail and surprise to your label design.

There are two ways to do this. First, direct to adhesive. Here we print directly onto the adhesive side of the label. It’s a cost-effective method, great for simple designs in one or two colours.

And then there’s sandwich printing. This is where the magic really happens. We print a full colour design onto a clear material, then laminate it with a paper face.

Once that label is applied to a bottle—especially a clear glass bottle—you can see the design through the back, magnified by the shape of the glass.

It’s like placing art inside your product. Whether it’s a vibrant pattern, an illustration, or a brand message—sandwich printing gives you a new canvas *behind* your product.

It’s subtle, but impactful. A premium look that invites closer inspection. Especially when the product itself is transparent—it’s like the label becomes part of the contents.

Think spirits, oils, cosmetics—anything in glass. That through-the-bottle moment adds real depth and discovery.

Now imagine combining a custom shape *and* reverse side printing.

You get a label that turns heads at first glance—then rewards the viewer with visual richness and depth.

It’s shelf appeal, brand storytelling, and design thinking—all in one label.

It’s easy to overlook labels. But get them right—and they become your silent sales team.

If you want your product to speak before it’s even picked up, start with the label.

Custom shape. Reverse printing. Maximum impact.

Label Apeel Ltd – Specialists in Decorative Self-Adhesive Labels