Size labels for bottles and jars
About this tool
Enter the diameter and straight body height of the bottle; the tool sizes the label, shows the clear reading strip on the front and draws a label template to download.
Use it when
- A label for a new bottle or jar, size unknown
- Labels leave a gap or wrinkle round the bottle
- Main text curves out of sight on the shelf
- Runs right on your device
- Wrap or front and back labels
- SVG and PDF download
The bottle decides the label size
A curve eats your text
On a round body, a shopper standing at the shelf reads only about a third of the way round clearly. Text placed outside that strip curves away and cannot be read.
Wrap labels need an overlap
A label that wraps all the way round must be longer than the circumference so its end can stick over its start. Too short and it gaps, too long and it bulges.
Every label printer has its own machines
Each plant has its own roll widths, cutting dies and applicators. This template is for drawing and asking; the printer will adjust it to their machines.
What people often ask
How long and tall should a wrap-around label be?
A wrap label is as long as the bottle's circumference, 3.14 times the diameter, plus an overlap for gluing; it should be no taller than the straight part of the body. Enter diameter and height and the tool sizes a wrap or front and back labels, marks the readable band, then exports an SVG or PDF template.
How do I measure the bottle diameter properly?
Measure on the straight part of the body, where the label will go, with calipers if you have them. Without calipers, wrap a strip of paper round the body, mark where it meets, measure the strip to get the circumference and divide by 3.14.
What is the straight body height?
The part of the bottle that stands straight up, not counting the shoulder that narrows to the neck or the rounded base. A label stuck on a curve wrinkles or peels, so the label must be shorter than this part.
Can I send this template straight to the label printer?
Yes, to get a quote and agree on the label size. The printer will adjust it to their roll width, cutting die and applicator; send the file along so they understand the size and where the text goes.