Label materials explained: face stock, adhesive and liner

A self-adhesive label material is three layers: face stock (what gets printed), adhesive, and liner (the backing that is thrown away).

Face stock

Coated paper is the cheapest and covers most food and logistics labels. Films (PP, PE, PET) resist water, oil and squeezing — the standard for cosmetics and chemicals.

Adhesive

Permanent adhesives are the default. Removable adhesives are for promotions and price marking. Deep-freeze adhesives keep tack below zero.

Liner

Glassine is cheap and standard; PET liner is thinner, stronger and lets you fit more labels per roll — which reduces machine stops on high-speed applicators.