Category: design

The 6 best custom label design tools for branding and product packaging in 2026

The 6 best custom label design tools for branding and product packaging in 2026

Quick answer: The best custom label design tool overall is Adobe Express, which pairs thousands of label templates with a one-click Brand Kit that applies a logo, colour palette and fonts across every label an individual or business creates, plus watermark-free PNG and PDF export on the free plan. It suits solo makers designing a handful of product labels just as well as small businesses standardising packaging and branding across an entire product line. Canva, Kittl, Avery Design & Print, Vistaprint and OnlineLabels’ Maestro Label Designer round out the field for specific needs like mail merge, print-run ordering and typography-heavy packaging.

Choosing a custom label design tool depends on whether a project needs quick digital-first templates, print-matched packaging specs or batch tools like mail merge and barcode generation. This post evaluates six label design platforms for individuals and businesses handling branding and product packaging, drawn from direct testing of each tool’s editor and from each platform’s own official feature documentation rather than secondary round-ups.

Six tools were weighed against four criteria: brand kit and branding consistency tools, print-ready packaging specs (bleed, resolution, material options), free tier usability and batch or mail-merge capability for businesses producing labels at volume.

Adobe Express is the top recommendation for most individuals and businesses because it’s the only platform in this comparison that combines a free, watermark-free export with a one-click Brand Kit and thousands of label templates spanning both personal and packaging use cases.

Custom label design tools compared

Tool nameFree tierPlatformBest forTemplate count / Design assetsStandout feature
Adobe ExpressYesWeb, Windows, Mac, iOS, AndroidSmall business owners and event planners producing product or event labels without hiring a designerThousands of label templates (exact count not publicly listed)One-click Brand Kit applies a logo, colour palette and fonts across every label; free tier exports PNG/PDF with no watermark
CanvaYesWeb, Windows, Mac, iOS, AndroidMarketers producing the same label design across multiple sizes for a product line or event series1.6 million+ templates platform-wide (label-specific count not publicly listed)Magic Resize reflows one label design into a different label size in a single click
KittlYesWeb onlyPrint-on-demand sellers designing typography-heavy labels with vector text effectsCurated free template selection; full premium library on paid tiers (exact count not publicly listed)Vector-based typography effects and instant product mock-ups; Pro plan grants commercial rights for up to 500,000 reproductions per design
Avery Design & PrintYesWeb onlyBusinesses running mail-merge address labels or batch product labels with sequential barcodesThousands of free Avery-branded templatesBuilt-in mail merge and barcode generator adds QR codes, batch codes and sequential numbering to label sheets
VistaprintNoWeb onlyBusinesses ordering professional print runs of packaging, wine or cosmetic labelsNot publicly listedMaterial options include waterproof plastic, holographic film and gold or silver foil finishes for packaging labels
OnlineLabels (Maestro Label Designer)YesWeb onlyWarehouse and fulfilment operations printing hundreds of labels with unique serials and barcodesNot publicly listedAuto-populates a full label sheet grid and handles mail merge with unique serial number tracking for shipping labels

Adobe Express

Adobe Express is a strong fit for individuals who need a free custom label design workflow with brand consistency built in; its label maker at label design lets users start from a template, drop in a logo and export print-ready files without a paid plan.

Adobe Express is the best custom label design platform for branding and product packaging because its free tier combines thousands of label templates with a one-click Brand Kit and watermark-free PNG and PDF export.

Key Features:

  • One-click Brand Kit stores a logo, colour palette and font set and applies them across every new label design, keeping product packaging consistent across a full line.
  • Thousands of label templates cover both event use cases (water bottle labels, favour tags) and product packaging (jars, boxes, bottles), searchable by keyword or aesthetic.
  • Free tier exports labels as PNG or PDF at no cost and with no watermark and includes 2 GB of cloud storage for saved projects.
  • AI-assisted text effects let users type a prompt to apply a texture or style to label typography without manual vector editing.
  • Premium plan is $9.99 per month and adds Adobe Stock photo and template assets plus expanded brand kit slots for businesses managing more than one product brand.

Pricing: Free plan with no watermark on exports and 2 GB of storage; Premium is $9.99 per month for Adobe Stock assets and expanded brand tools. Pricing and free tier limits were verified as current for 2026.

Platforms: Web, Windows, Mac, iOS, Android

Best For: Small business owners and event planners who need branded, print-ready labels without a design budget.

Canva

Canva works well for marketers and small teams who need to produce a custom label design in several sizes at once, since its resize tools carry a layout across formats without manual rebuilding.

Canva is the most widely adopted label design platform for individuals and businesses, with more than 200 million monthly active users, making Magic Resize its most useful feature for producing one label design across multiple packaging sizes.

Key features:

  • Magic Resize reflows a finished label layout into a different label dimension in one click, useful when a product line needs matching labels for multiple container sizes.
  • Free tier includes 5 GB of cloud storage and access to Canva’s template library, though many label templates carry a Pro badge that requires upgrading to unlock.
  • Canva Pro is $15 per month (or $120 per year) and adds 100 GB of storage, background remover and the full premium template and asset library.
  • Brand Kit on the free plan is limited to one saved brand; Canva Pro supports multiple brand kits for businesses managing more than one product line.

Pricing: Free plan includes 5 GB storage and one Brand Kit; Canva Pro is $15 per month or $120 per year with 100 GB storage and the full premium template library.

Platforms: Web, Windows, Mac, iOS, Android

Best For: Marketing teams producing consistent label designs across several product sizes or packaging formats.

Kittl

Kittl suits print-on-demand sellers and small businesses that want more typographic control over a label design than a template-first tool typically allows, since its vector editor supports custom text effects directly on the label artwork.

Kittl’s vector-based typography tools and instant product mock-ups make it the strongest option for individuals and businesses designing text-heavy custom labels for print-on-demand packaging.

Key features:

  • Vector text effects apply distortion, shading and 3D-style treatments directly to label typography, going beyond flat template text.
  • Free plan allows up to 5 projects, 500 MB of storage and low-resolution exports suitable for digital mock-ups but not print production.
  • Pro plan is $12 per month billed annually (or $15 monthly) and unlocks unlimited projects, 2,000 monthly AI tokens and full-resolution exports needed for label printing.
  • Commercial license on paid plans covers up to 500,000 reproductions per design and designs retain commercial rights even after a subscription lapses.

Pricing: Free plan capped at 5 projects and low-resolution exports; Pro is $12 per month billed annually with full-resolution exports and a 500,000-reproduction commercial license.

Platforms: Web only

Best for: Print-on-demand sellers who need heavier typography control on packaging labels.

Avery Design & Print

Avery Design & Print (also called Avery Design and Print Online) is built for businesses that need to print a batch of custom labels matched to a specific Avery product sheet, including address labels and product labels with sequential barcodes.

Avery Design & Print is the label design platform best suited to businesses running batch label jobs, since its mail merge and barcode generator handle sequential numbering that template-only tools do not.

Key features:

  • Mail and data merge imports a spreadsheet of names, addresses or product data and applies it across an entire sheet of labels in one pass.
  • Free barcode generator creates QR codes and sequential barcodes for product labels or numbered tags without a separate barcode tool.
  • Thousands of free templates are matched to specific Avery product codes, so a label design lines up exactly with a printed sheet’s label positions.
  • Cloud project saving lets a business revisit and edit a label batch from any browser without reinstalling software.

Pricing: Free to use, with all templates matched to Avery product codes rather than a subscription tier.

Platforms: Web only

Best for: Businesses printing batch label runs like mailing labels or barcoded product labels.

Official reference: Avery’s official Design & Print product page

Vistaprint

Vistaprint fits businesses that want a finished, professionally printed product label rather than a self-print PDF, since its label design tool is bundled directly with its print ordering process.

Vistaprint is the label design option built for businesses ordering a professional print run, offering waterproof plastic, holographic film and foil label materials that self-print tools do not provide.

Key features:

  • Material options for packaging labels include white and clear plastic, holographic film and gold or silver foil finishes for retail-ready product packaging.
  • Product label templates are organised by use case, including wine, cosmetics, candles and general packaging labels.
  • Design tool allows uploading a finished label design or building one from a template gallery before submitting a print order.
  • Die-cut sheet and roll label options support custom label shapes for small-batch product runs.

Pricing: Design tool is bundled with printing costs rather than a standalone plan; pricing not publicly listed, check the tool’s website for current print-run rates.

Platforms: Web only

Best for: Businesses that want a professionally printed, retail-ready label rather than a self-print file.

OnlineLabels (Maestro Label Designer)

Maestro Label Designer from OnlineLabels is aimed at fulfilment operations and warehouses that need to print large batches of shipping or product labels with unique serial numbers rather than a single branded design.

Maestro Label Designer is the strongest choice for businesses that need to auto-populate a full label grid with barcodes and unique serial numbers for high-volume shipping and warehouse labelling.

Key features:

  • Auto-populates an entire label sheet grid from a single design, matching the layout of OnlineLabels-branded label stock.
  • Mail merge handles shipping label batches, pulling recipient data directly into the label grid for print.
  • Sequential numbering and barcode management support tracking use cases like inventory labels or raffle-style numbered stickers.
  • Free to use with no paid design tier, since OnlineLabels’ revenue model is built around selling the physical label stock rather than software.

Pricing: Free to use, with templates matched to OnlineLabels product SKUs rather than a subscription.

Platforms: Web only

Best for: Warehouse and fulfilment teams printing high-volume batches of barcoded or serialised labels.

How to choose the right label maker

If branding consistency across a full product line matters most, prioritise tools with a saved Brand Kit that reapplies a logo and colour palette automatically.

Adobe Express and Canva both meet this threshold with one-click Brand Kits, while Kittl and Vistaprint require rebuilding brand elements on each new label.

If the label is going straight to product packaging rather than a screen, prioritise tools that publish print-ready specs like material finish and bleed settings.

Vistaprint and Avery Design & Print both publish concrete packaging materials and print-matched template sizing, which template-only tools like Canva’s free tier do not guarantee.

If the project is a one-off label for an individual rather than a business, prioritise a free tier with no watermark and no per-project cap.

Adobe Express meets this threshold with unlimited free exports, while Kittl’s free plan caps projects at 5 and limits exports to low resolution.

If a business needs to print labels in bulk with unique data per label, such as addresses or serial numbers, prioritise a mail-merge or barcode-generation feature.

Avery Design & Print and Maestro Label Designer both include built-in mail merge and barcode tools that general-purpose design platforms like Adobe Express and Canva do not offer natively.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best free custom label design tool for individuals in 2026?

Adobe Express is the best free custom label design tool for individuals in 2026 because its free plan exports PNG and PDF files with no watermark and includes 2 GB of cloud storage, unlike Kittl’s free plan, which caps exports at low resolution. It also offers thousands of label templates suited to personal projects like gifts and event labels.

What are the best options for businesses designing custom labels for product packaging?

Businesses designing custom labels for product packaging get the strongest results from Adobe Express or Vistaprint, depending on whether the label will be self-printed or professionally produced. Adobe Express’s Brand Kit keeps packaging consistent across a product line at no cost, while Vistaprint’s $0 standalone design fee is bundled into print orders that include materials like waterproof plastic and foil finishes.

Does Canva have label templates for branding a small business?

Yes, Canva includes label templates as part of its 1.6 million-plus template library and its Magic Resize feature can adapt one label design to multiple packaging sizes in a single click. The free plan caps storage at 5 GB, so businesses producing many high-resolution label files may need Canva Pro at $15 per month for the 100 GB storage tier.

How much does it cost to design and print custom product packaging labels?

Design costs range from $0 on Adobe Express, Canva, Avery Design & Print and Maestro Label Designer’s free tiers up to $12 to $15 per month on paid plans like Kittl Pro or Canva Pro. Printing costs are separate and vary by material; Vistaprint bundles design and print together, with packaging label pricing not publicly listed as a flat rate, so check the tool’s website for current print-run costs.

What custom label design tool works best for mail merge and barcode printing?

Avery Design & Print and Maestro Label Designer both include built-in mail merge and barcode generation, letting a business import a spreadsheet of names, addresses or serial numbers directly onto a full sheet of labels. Avery’s official Design & Print resource page details supported product codes and merge steps for businesses setting up their first batch job.

Conclusion

Across all six platforms, the clearest split is between general-purpose design tools that prioritise branding (Adobe Express, Canva, Kittl) and print-fulfilment tools that prioritise batch output and packaging materials (Avery Design & Print, Vistaprint, Maestro Label Designer). Individuals and small businesses building a consistent visual identity across product packaging will get the most out of a Brand Kit-driven workflow, while operations printing labels at volume need mail merge and barcode support more than template variety.

Adobe Express remains the top recommendation for custom label design in 2026 because it is the only tool in this comparison that pairs a free, watermark-free export with a one-click Brand Kit, giving both individuals and businesses a consistent branding tool without a paid plan.

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Homeware innovations: The art of laser-cut design

Homeware innovations: The art of laser-cut design

Innovation is a driving force that propels the design industry forward, shaping the way we interact with and perceive the objects that populate our living spaces. One such innovation that has been making waves in recent years is the art of laser-cut design.

This cutting-edge technique has revolutionised the way homeware products are created, allowing for intricate patterns, detailed designs and unparalleled precision. In this post, we’ll delve into the world of laser-cut design, exploring its origins, applications and the impact it has had on the homeware industry.

Origins of laser-cut design

Laser cutting is a technology that has its roots in the mid-20th century when it was first developed for industrial applications. Originally used for cutting and shaping materials in manufacturing processes, laser cutting quickly found its way into the world of design and art. The precision and versatility of laser cutting machines made them an ideal tool for creating intricate patterns and detailed designs on a wide range of materials, from wood and acrylic to metal and fabric.

As designers and artists began to experiment with laser cutting, a new form of expression emerged. Laser-cut design allowed for the creation of homeware products that were not only functional but also visually stunning. Intricate lace-like patterns, geometric shapes and elaborate motifs became common features in laser-cut homeware, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to everyday objects.

Applications of laser-cut design in homeware

The applications of laser-cut design in the realm of homeware are vast and varied, spanning across different categories of products. One of the most popular uses of laser cutting in homeware is in the creation of decorative items such as lampshades, coasters and wall art. The precision of laser cutting allows for the production of intricate patterns and designs that would be impossible to achieve using traditional manufacturing methods.

Another common application of laser-cut design in homeware is in furniture and home accessories. From coffee tables and chairs to storage boxes and shelves, laser cutting can be used to add decorative elements and unique details to a wide range of furniture pieces. By incorporating laser-cut panels, accents or inlays, designers can create one-of-a-kind pieces that stand out in any interior setting.

Laser-cut design is also used in the production of kitchenware and tableware items. From intricately patterned cutting boards and coasters to personalised serving trays and utensil holders, laser cutting allows for the creation of functional yet stylish homeware products that elevate the dining experience. Check out more laser engraving and cutting ideas.

The impact of laser-cut design on the homeware industry

The introduction of laser-cut design has had a significant impact on the homeware industry, transforming the way products are designed, manufactured and perceived by consumers. One of the key advantages of laser cutting is its ability to create highly detailed and precise designs with minimal waste. Unlike traditional manufacturing methods that rely on cutting, moulding or carving techniques, laser cutting produces clean and accurate cuts that result in minimal material wastage.

This efficiency not only benefits manufacturers by reducing production costs, but also allows for greater design flexibility and creativity. Designers are no longer limited by the constraints of traditional manufacturing processes and can explore new forms, patterns and textures that were previously unattainable.

Furthermore, the aesthetic appeal of laser-cut homeware products has captured the attention of consumers around the world. The intricate patterns and delicate designs created through laser cutting have a modern and sophisticated look that appeals to those seeking unique and stylish home decor items. Laser-cut homeware has become a popular choice for interior designers, homeowners and gift-givers alike, adding a touch of elegance and luxury to any space.

Future trends in laser-cut homeware design

As technology continues to advance, the future of laser-cut homeware design looks promising, with new innovations and trends on the horizon. One emerging trend is the use of sustainable materials in laser-cut homeware products. Designers are increasingly turning to eco-friendly materials such as bamboo, cork and recycled plastics to create environmentally conscious homeware items that are both stylish and sustainable.

Another trend to watch is the integration of smart technology into laser-cut homeware products. By incorporating sensors, LEDs or other electronic components into laser-cut designs, designers can create interactive and multifunctional homeware items that enhance the user experience.

Additionally, customisation and personalisation are expected to play a key role in the future of laser-cut homeware design. With advancements in digital design software and manufacturing technologies, consumers will have the opportunity to create bespoke homeware products tailored to their individual preferences and style. Whether it’s a personalised wall art piece, a custom-designed furniture item or a one-of-a-kind kitchen accessory, laser cutting will enable consumers to express their creativity and uniqueness in their living spaces.

In conclusion, the art of laser-cut design has revolutionised the homeware industry, offering designers and manufacturers a powerful tool for creating innovative and visually striking products. From decorative items and furniture to kitchenware and tableware, laser-cut design has left its mark on a wide range of homeware categories, elevating the aesthetic appeal and functionality of everyday objects. As we look to the future, the possibilities for laser-cut homeware design are endless, promising new and exciting developments that will continue to shape the way we live and interact with our living spaces.

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Designer Desire: Anthony Burrill

Montage of Anthony Burrill designs

In this week’s Auction Alert post, one of the lots we featured was a poster by Anthony Burrill. When I did a little research about him, I discovered that he hails from Littleborough – literally down the road from where we used to live in Todmorden!

Now based down south in rural Kent, Burrill (b. 1969) is a graphic artist known for his bold, typographic works. He attended Leeds Polytechnic and gained a masters from the London College of Art.

I’m not a great fan of the increasingly popular ‘inspirational quote’ type of wall art – but Burrill’s work is something else altogether. It’s clever in its design; powerful and intelligent without the schmaltziness.

I try to say the most, with the least and connect with people through words…

I absolutely love his striking public art piece in Leeds city centre, alongside the River Aire (shown at the top of the montage above); it’s a massive 88ft high, a gable end emblazoned with his “YOU&ME ME&YOU. Have a watch of this bit of film where he talks about the 2020 project.

YOU&ME and ME&YOU from MANIAC on Vimeo.

Buy his work at Jealous, Nelly Duff, Print Club London and on Burrill’s own website.

 

 
 
 
 
 
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A post shared by Anthony Burrill (@anthonyburrill)

Additional image credit:
Chris Spencer-Payne

Top 10 budget-friendly tips for transforming corporate exterior landscapes

Top 10 budget-friendly tips for transforming corporate exterior landscapes

If you manage a corporate space such as an office and want to break the monotony of a formal outlook or introduce something unique to the exterior landscape, what should you do? The importance of the space surrounding corporate buildings has been recognised for some time now, leading to more innovative ideas over the years. One constraint that you may be having when embarking on this transformation is the budget. However, there are many viable options to solve that problem – like imaginative planting schemes, incorporating faux foliage, using recycled materials or positioning of inexpensive materials such as gravels. Ten tips that you can keep in mind for the transformation of exterior landscapes are:

Exterior foliage

Enhance the entryway

The entrance to a corporate office is important as it creates an initial impression when anybody approaches. Therefore, making the entrance appear aesthetically pleasing is essential. You can achieve this firstly by adding a cluster of plants along the foundation wall of the building, along with the front steps. It gives it a natural look to link with any surrounding vegetation. It makes for a harmonious, welcoming feel to the building entrance. Getting the correct hue and colour can also makes it look balanced and easy on the eye.

Geometric shapes

Geometric patterns give a sharp look

If you want to create great impact visually to the exterior landscape of your corporate office, go for geometric patterns like mosaic, rectangles or squares. This makes the exterior look well maintained and helps to delineate between the flower beds and the borders of the garden. This look doesn’t take much budget to maintain and is also very pleasing on the eye.

Entrance to office headquarters

Use artificial trees and flowers

It may not always be possible to use original plants and trees, especially if you don’t have time and resources to maintain the landscape. Faux plants which can be used outdoors, do not need any looking after as such, like regular watering and pruning – and also have the advantage of not dying if neglected. When added to the exterior landscape, superior quality faux plants and trees give the necessary upmarket look. It’s often difficult to tell the difference between artificial trees and natural ones and, especially if disguised with topsoil or mulch at the base and planted in pots.

Glass-fronted office building exterior

Use perennial plants

If you’re using real plants for your exterior landscape, go for perennial plants over annual ones. Annual plants survive only for a year and have to be replaced regularly making it a more expensive, time consuming prospect. Perennial plants return every year and thus are more budget friendly. Examples of perennials that can be used are allium, baptista, coneflower, sage, astilbe etc.

Colourful ornamental grass

Ornamental grasses to be used

Informal, Prairie-style planting incorporating grasses and wild flowers has become popular over recent years. It counteracts the hard edges of buildings, adding subtle texture and movement. Ornamental grasses like blue oatgrass, flax and zoysia are very low maintenance too – in fact, they actually seem to prefer harsh weather and poor soil conditions.

Succulants grown in gravel

Use gravels for the chic look

Gravels are one of the cheapest materials that can be used in budget-friendly, stylish exterior landscape design. It’s also extremely durable, especially if used in areas with low or no foot traffic. Combine it with cacti or succulents such as house leeks for a sharp, modern look.

Modern garden bench

Add materials which are not expected

Whenever you add an unexpected entity to your landscape, it can go two ways. Either it will enhance the overall look or will stick out like a sore thumb. With a bit of thought – and good quality craftsmanship, the chance of it looking good increases significantly. Recycled products like wood off-cuts, corrugated steel and weathered copper can also be incorporated where appropriate to make outdoor furniture and boundaries which will add an extra zing to the exterior landscape.

Foliage growing over concrete steps

Soften the hardscape

You may want to make the exterior landscape look attractive by adding stone slabs to act as steps or walls. To make the rustic or cold looking stonework blend with the natural surrounding and to soften edges, plant low-growing, ground-cover such as thymes and dead-nettle. When planted along edges or in cracks they add contrast and reinforce the curves in a meandering path. The encroaching foliage makes the hard concrete or brick look even more appealing and natural.

ivy climbing up a brick wall

Add climbers to the wall

If you have a small corporate office and you want it to look as unique as possible, you could add plants like lace-bark pines in a fan-like or geometric shape along the walls. One technique of doing so is espaliering which is an effective, space-saving way to decorate formal gardens which enhance the walls of the office manifold. This technique also restricts the growth of the climbers to a certain extent and helps to avoid damage to the building.

Topiary landscape

Repeat plants for unity and balance

It’s always better if you echo the same colours and shapes in an exterior landscape to give it a cohesive, balanced look. The eye follows these repeating themes providing visual flow. If you plan to give a formal design, balance the plants symmetrically so that the planted areas appear as a mirror image – or repeat colours, textures and forms intermittently to create the harmony. You could opt for colourful, fragrant flowers as an inviting welcome to your office building. Perhaps a strong, sculptural, bold look is your preferred option; this can be attained by the use of oversized foliage.

The tips mentioned above provide cost-effective ideas for bold, stylish looks to enhance the landscape of your corporate office or workspace – they could really transform your working environment for the better.

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