Sticker types: our guide to the materials on offer

Headline Printers has introduced innovative new sticker materials that can cope with challenging environments when it comes to moisture and temperature.

Previously, we’ve offered permanent white gloss paper stickers on sheets, as well as individual gloss crackback stickers. These are versatile and durable labels, but the new materials that we’ve introduced open up a whole new world of labelling opportunities.

New materials, new uses

These new materials are particularly good news for anyone that runs a food and drink brand – and that includes frozen foods. These tough new materials are equally at home labelling cosmetics and cleaning products, plus Headline Printers is now able to produce transparent stickers for the first time!

Our new sticker options are fantastic when you want to spread the word on windows, jars, bottles and heaps more. If you don’t want them to stick around forever, we’ve even got non-permanent versions that are easy to peal once they’ve lost they’re done their job – perfect for sealing packaging or for labels that will be removed from the product by the end user.

In addition to this great range of materials from our classic range, our Green Range features Vegan Stickers that have already become a hit among brands with an ethical focus.

Sticker Materials – the details

When you shop for stickers on sheets, the first decision to make is whether to go for Circle, Rectangle, or Square Stickers. Once you’ve reached the product page for your Sticker shape, you’ll find a drop-down menu asking you to select a PAPER TYPE. Let’s go through each of those materials in depth so you’ll know which one to choose.

1. White Gloss (Paper) – Permanent

These 90gsm stickers are made from white, woodfree paper that’s machine coated with gloss finish. Once applied at above 0°C, these are a chill grade, ideal for labelling sandwiches and other refrigerated foods. They’re great all-round stickers, approved for direct contact on dry and ‘moist’ non-fatty foods.

Usage: Multi-purpose label, performs on cardboard and plastic bags. Ideal for chilled food
Material: 90gsm gloss coated white paper
Adhesive: Permanent (aqueous acrylic emulsion)
Approvals: direct contact with dry or moist non-fatty foods
Temperature: -10°C to +65°C (must be applied above 0°C)

2. White Gloss (Paper) – Removable

A fantastic general-purpose label that doesn’t have to stick around permanently. Like their permanent counterparts, they’re a machine-coated gloss sticker made from white, woodfree paper. Approved for use in the deep freeze as long as labels are applied to dry goods at room temperature. NB. removable adhesives can permanent overtime on certain surfaces, be sure to conduct a trial – samples are available.

Usage: Versatile and deep freeze friendly, this all-round label can be removed with ease.
Material: 90gsm gloss coated white paper
Adhesive: Removable (aqueous acrylic emulsion)
Approvals: direct contact with dry or moist non-fatty foods
Temperature: -5°C to +60°C (must be applied above 15°C)

3. Clear Gloss PP (Plastic) – Permanent

These waterproof polyester film stickers will wipe clean without compromising your printed message, making them perfect for bottles and jars containing liquid. They’re tear-resistant and durable enough to withstand outdoor conditions. NB. We don’t currently print white ink onto translucent labels. White areas in your artwork will appear as transparency on the finished label.

Usage: Durable, transparent labels that work well on interior or exterior windows. Ideal for jars and bottles.
Material: 59gsm gloss clear polypropylene
Adhesive: Permanent (aqueous acrylic emulsion)
Approvals: direct contact foodstuffs, meets the European Toy Regulation EN71/3
Temperature: -15°C to +80°C (must be applied above -5°C to +40°C)

4. White Gloss PP (Plastic) – Permanent

Ideal for low energy surfaces such as plastic bags, these permanent gloss white labels adhere to materials that most stickers struggle to bond with. Bright white and opaque, they provide an excellent surface for bold, impactful designs. Suitable for indirect food packaging.

Usage: Opaque, white labels suitable for indoor or outdoor use and curved surfaces. Ideal for jars and bottles.
Material: 59gsm gloss white polypropylene
Adhesive: Permanent (aqueous acrylic emulsion)
Approvals: direct contact foodstuffs, meets the European Toy Regulation EN71/3
Temperature: -15°C to +80°C (must be applied above -5°C to +40°C)

5. White Uncoated (Paper) – Permanent

When the product calls for a vintage or rustic feel, these high-quality, uncoated labels bring a traditional vibe. Don’t be fooled by their rustic charm — these stickers are tough! Specially formulated to cope with moisture and refrigeration, they’re perfect for bottles, jars and cans. Also approved for use on toys.

Usage: Freezer-friendly label with a natural, uncoated finish. Performs on cardboard and plastic bags. Ideal for indirect food packaging.
Material: 70gsm uncoated white paper
Adhesive: Permanent (aqueous acrylic emulsion)
Approvals: direct contact with dry or moist non-fatty foods, meets the European Toy Regulation EN71/3
Temperature: -20°C to +100°C (must be applied above 5°C)

6. White Uncoated (Paper) – Removable

These non-permanent 70gsm labels with acrylic aqueous adhesive are perfect for products where the sticker can be removed by the end-user. Once applied and dried at room temperature, they’re freezer-friendly, so they’re also a great choice for ready meals and frozen produce.

Usage: Non-permanent labels with an uncoated finish. Perfect for ready meals, frozen produce and products where the sticker can be removed by the end-user.
Material: 70gsm uncoated white paper
Adhesive: Removable (aqueous acrylic emulsion)
Approvals: direct contact with dry or moist non-fatty foods, meets the European Toy Regulation EN71/3
Temperature: -40°C to +50°C (must be applied above -20°C)

Contact us today for more information on our sticker range.