How do I label beer cans, crowlers and growlers?
| Best material | Waterproof laminated vinyl |
|---|---|
| Apply to | Clean, dry, room-temperature containers |
| Biggest mistake | Labeling cold or sweating cans |
| Proof | Free digital proof before printing |
Pick a size that fits the flat area
Cans, crowlers and growlers are curved, so a label only sits flat across part of the surface. Measure the straight section of the container (not including the tapered top and bottom) and keep the label height inside it. A label that wraps less than halfway around the can is easier to apply straight than a full wrap.
Quick way to check: print your design on paper at actual size, cut it out and tape it to an empty can. If the edges tent or wrinkle, make it shorter or narrower.
Make it survive cold, condensation and ice
Beer labels live a hard life: fridges, coolers, ice buckets and wet bar tops. Paper labels soak through and tear. Waterproof laminated vinyl custom labels hold up to water and handling, and the laminate protects the print from scuffing in a six-pack carrier.
How to apply labels to cans
- Label empty or room-temperature cans whenever possible.
- Wipe each can with rubbing alcohol to remove oils and dust, and let it dry fully.
- Line up the label against a seam or a mark so every can looks the same.
- Press the center down first, then smooth outward toward both edges.
- Run a thumb firmly over the edges.
- Give the adhesive time to set before chilling.
If you must label cans that are already cold, bring them to room temperature and dry them completely first. Never label a can covered in condensation.
Crowlers and growlers
Crowlers take labels the same way as cans. Glass growlers are less curved, so they can usually take a taller label. Clean the glass with alcohol first, since residue from dishwashing can stop labels from bonding.
Small batches and seasonal releases
Order each release in the quantity you will actually can, and reorder when you brew again. Every order comes with a free digital proof, so you can check the beer name, ABV and any required text before anything prints. If your labels need specific legal wording, confirm the requirements for your state and product before you order.
Related questions
- Will vinyl labels stay on in a cooler full of ice?
- Waterproof laminated vinyl labels hold up to water and ice when they were applied to a dry, room-temperature can and given time to set. Labels applied to cold, wet cans are the ones that slide off.
- Should I use stickers or labels for cans?
- Either works. Labels on a sheet or roll are faster for labeling many cans. Die-cut stickers are better as merch and giveaways at the taproom.
- Can I label cans that are already filled and cold?
- Let them warm to room temperature and dry them completely first. Applying to a sweating can is the most common cause of label failure.