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Introduction

Hang tags are small tags made of paper, plastic, or other materials that are attached to products using string, adhesive, or other methods. They serve as a form of product labeling and are an important part of product packaging and branding. Hang tags provide key product details, instructions, and branding elements right on the product itself. They allow customers to easily identify the product and learn about it without having to search through external packaging or labels.

Well-designed custom hang tags can help make products stand out on the shelves and convey quality and professionalism. They are essentially mini advertisements for your product that customers will see each time they use it. With the ability to include high-quality graphics, product photos, logos and custom shapes, hang tags are an opportunity to reinforce branding and make your product memorable.

Types of Hang Tags

Hang tags come in a variety of shapes and sizes to fit different packaging needs. Some of the most common shapes include:

• Rectangular - This classic shape works for most products and allows plenty of room for text and graphics.
• Circular - Round hang tags can complement circular products or stand out on their own.
• Die-cut shapes - Custom die cutting allows for unique shapes like stars, clouds, hearts, etc.

Standard hang tag sizes range from 1.5 x 1.5 inches up to 4 x 6 inches. Mini hang tags around 1.5 inches square are good for small products or attaching to narrow straps. Larger tags around 3 x 4 inches provide ample space for text and visuals. The dimensions can be adjusted based on the size of the product packaging and the amount of information to include.

Choosing the right shape and size for your custom hang tags requires balancing branding, product details, and functionality. Mini hang tags keep costs down but limit space. Novelty shapes stand out but can drive up printing costs. Consider your product, packaging, target audience and other factors when selecting hang tag dimensions and die-cut options.

Information to Include

There are a few key pieces of information to include on your custom hang tags that will provide important details about your product and brand:

Product Details

Be sure to include any relevant product details that the customer needs to know. This may include materials, size, care instructions, warnings, etc. Providing this practical information helps the customer understand how to properly use and care for the product (Noissue, 2022).

Branding

The hang tag is a great place to feature your branding. Consider including your company logo, slogan or tagline, brand colors and fonts. This allows customers to quickly identify your brand and recognizes you as the maker of the product (Tinyfish Printing, 2019).

Identification Codes

Many brands will include product ID numbers, style numbers, barcodes or other codes to help identify that specific product. This aids in inventory management and restocking efforts (4over4, 2022).

Materials

When choosing materials for custom hang tags, you'll want to consider cardstock weight and finish. Cardstock is available in a range of weights from 60lb to 120lb or higher. The heavier weight cardstocks like 80lb to 120lb are recommended for hang tags since they are more durable and rigid.

You'll also want to choose a finish that aligns with your brand and product. Common finishes include:

• Glossy - Provides a shiny, sleek finish and makes colors pop.
• Matte - Has a flat, non-reflective finish that looks more natural.
• Uncoated - An uncoated finish that absorbs ink for a vintage look.
• Linen - Has a textured finish that mimics linen fabric.

For products with a more natural or earthy aesthetic, uncoated or linen finishes may be ideal. Glossy finishes tend to work best for bold, eye-catching designs. Beyond cardstock, you can also consider durable materials like leather, wood, or metal for a unique hang tag.

No matter what material you choose, make sure it is sturdy enough to withstand shipping and handling. The last thing you want is for your custom hang tag to tear or fall off the product before reaching the customer.

Design Tips

When designing your custom hang tags, there are some key tips to keep in mind to make them stand out:

Use high quality graphics and images. Having crisp, clean images helps convey a premium, high-end feel for your product. Consider using product photos or lifestyle imagery that aligns with your brand aesthetic. According to PS Print, "Remember that hang tags have to do three things, all at once: grab attention, tell a story and project an image." 

Incorporate your brand colors and fonts. This helps reinforce brand recognition and consistency across your product packaging. Keep font choices easy to read from a distance. According to New Print, "Utilise as much space as possible by placing information on the hang tag's front and back."

Include important product details that customers want to know, like materials, care instructions, sizing info, etc. Making these details visible allows customers to quickly access key information without having to search through attached tags or packaging.

Where to Get Custom Tags Printed

When it comes to printing custom hang tags, you have two main options: online printing services or local printers. Here's an overview of the pros and cons of each:

Online Printing Services

Using an online printing company to produce your custom hang tags offers several advantages:

• Fast turnaround times, often with rush printing options available
• Ability to easily upload designs and order online
• Large printing capabilities for high volume orders
• Low per-unit costs for bulk orders

Top online printing companies for hang tags include Box  Print, VistaPrint, and GotPrint.

Local Printers

For specialty materials like plastic, vinyl, or leather hang tags, visiting a local print shop may be your best option. Benefits of local printers include:

• Ability to print on unique materials not offered by online printers
• Options for specialty finishes like foil stamping, embossing, or spot UV
• Can provide prototypes or short test runs
• Support local businesses in your community

Check Yelp or Google Maps to find highly-rated local printers near you. Look for shops experienced in printing promotional products, packaging, or signage.

Creative Uses of Hang Tags

Hang tags can be used in creative ways beyond just displaying product information. Here are some ideas:

Additional Marketing

Attach coupons, special offers, or other promotional materials to hang tags to entice customers. For example, a clothing brand could attach a 10% off coupon for the customer's next purchase. This provides an extra marketing opportunity.

Match Shape to Product

Customizing the shape of the hang tag to complement the product can make the packaging more visually appealing. For a clothing item, the hang tag could be cut in the shape of a shirt or pants. Or for jewelry, the tag could be a circle, star, or diamond. Matching the shapes connects the tag to the product. 

Interactive

Adding interactive or tactile elements to a hang tag makes it more engaging. This could include things like textured materials, fold-out sections, or punch-out shapes. For example, a children's toy could have a hang tag made of fuzzy material or that unfolds into a paper doll. Unique textures and interactions can make the product more memorable.

Cost Considerations

There are a few key factors that affect the cost per custom hang tag:

Materials - More durable or thicker paper stocks will cost more than standard cardstock. Specialty materials like transparent film or metallic finishes also increase cost.

Printing - Using full color printing, especially on both sides, costs more than simple 1-2 color printing. Additional treatments like UV coating, varnishes, or foil stamping also add cost.

Quantity - Producing hang tags in larger quantities leads to economies of scale, lowering the cost per unit. Typical price breaks occur at quantities of 100, 250, 500 and 1,000 units.

Size - Larger hang tags require more materials and space on printing sheets, so they are more expensive per unit than smaller tags.

Design - More complex designs with multiple elements, photos, etc. take more time to prepare for printing which can increase cost.

By planning designs carefully, choosing standard materials and printing options, and ordering in bulk, businesses can get custom hang tags printed very affordably.

Lead Time

When ordering custom hang tags, it's important to factor in production and shipping timelines. Most online printing services offer standard production times of 2-3 business days for basic cardstock hang tags. This does not include the time needed for shipping.

For orders requiring specialty materials like plastic, metal, or rigid hang tags, lead times can be 5-7 business days or longer. Rush printing fees generally apply if you need your order faster than the standard production time. Rush fees can add 25-50% or more to your total cost.

To avoid paying rush fees, plan ahead and place your hang tag order 1-2 weeks in advance of when you'll need them. This provides a buffer for production and delivery time. Check with your printer for specific lead times when requesting a quote.

Conclusion

In summary, custom hang tags are an important and creative way to enhance your product packaging. Well-designed hang tags serve as mini billboards to showcase your branding, provide product details, and help your items stand out. When sourcing custom hang tags, prioritize using thick, durable materials and quality printing to make a lasting impression. Focus the hang tag design on telling your brand's story and speaking to your target consumer. With some thoughtful planning, hang tags can be used to add polish to your packaging and help communicate what is special about your handcrafted and curated products. Don't let your hard work go unnoticed - give your customers something to talk about with custom hang tags!

Now that you know how to create eye-catching, branded hang tags, it's time to start designing your own. Use the tips in this article to develop custom hang tags that showcase your product and brand. Well-designed hang tags can elevate your packaging and help your products stand out on crowded shelves. Get creative with shapes, materials and interactive elements to make hang tags that customers want to keep. Every detail matters, so be sure to use quality printing and provide engaging content. With custom hang tags that reflect your brand story, you can make a memorable first impression and delights customers.