Metal labels are commonly used on apparel, bags, footwear and other products, which not only display the brand's logo, but also help to improve product image and brand awareness.To securely attach metal labels to garments, the 7 most effective methods are: Prongs (folding legs) for a flat finish, Rivets for heavy-duty security, Sewing Holes for hand-stitched precision, Butterfly Clutches or Safety Pins for removable tags, Screws for high-end luxury items, Hanging Chains for flexible branding, and Adhesive Backing for hard surfaces. Choosing the right fix depends on fabric thickness and the required durability to ensure a professional, long-lasting garment finish.
Kunshuo offers different metal label fixing methods for different products and applications. In this article, we will introduce 7 common fixing methods in detail to provide ideas for apparel designers and apparel manufacturers.
Common types of metal labels/tags
Classified by material
1. Aluminum labels: lightweight and corrosion-resistant, but the cost of polishing is higher.
2. Stainless steel labels: sturdy and not easy to rust, metallic texture.
3. Brass and copper labels: matte surface, not easy to fade, retro texture.
4. Zinc alloy labels: plasticity, can be customized complex shapes.
LEARN ABOUT ALL TYPES OF METAL LABELS
7 Common Metal Tag Fastening Methods
Sewn Metal Tags(With Holes)
Sewn metal tags usually come with pre-punched holes at both ends and are sewn onto the surface of the product using sturdy threads either through a sewing machine or by hand. Commonly used for apparel, scarves, backpacks, shoes.
Features:
1. Neat appearance
2. Simple and convenient
Rivet and screws fixing
The back of these metal tags usually have fixed straight feet, in equipped with rivets using riveting machine or hand for installation. Suitable for leather products, denim, belts, wood.
Features:
1. Durable and strong
2.Tamper proof
Bendable Legs(Foldable Legs)
These tags come with bendable or foldable legs on the back, which are inserted into the position where they need to be fastened, and then folded flat inside the product to secure it. Suitable for some softer products, such as backpacks, purses, furniture linings.
Features:
1. Easy to install
2. Less firmness
Butterfly clasp with pointed corners
With butterfly tower clasp with pointed corners Metal tags are commonly used as employee nameplates or badges, similar to pins, and can be reused.
Features:
1. Easy to remove or interchangeable
3M Adhesive Metal Labels
These labels do not require punching holes and mounting retainers, simply apply 3M adhesive to the back of the label and press it onto the product. Commonly used on smooth, clean product surfaces such as furniture, electronics, and industrial equipment.
Features:
1. Easy to install
2. Poor heat resistance
Safety Pin Metal Labels
These metal labels come with safety pins on the back and can be flexibly attached to clothing. Usually used for promotional products, displays or employee uniforms.
Features
1. Limited to flat and lightweight labels
2. Easily removable and reusable
Welding or Industrial Attachment
This is the most permanent and durable tag for industrial or outdoor labeling where the tag must withstand vibration, heat, chemicals or abrasion .
Features:
1. long life for harsh industrial use
2. Irreversible once attached
Choose the right fixing method according to the type of product
|
Product Type |
Recommended Fixing Method |
Why It Works |
Notes / Tips |
|
Apparel (Jeans, Coats) |
Sew-On, Rivets, Foldable Legs |
Easy to integrate into seams; rivets offer a rugged aesthetic |
For high-end branding, use zinc alloy tags with engraved logos |
|
Leather Bags & Belts |
Rivets, Screw-On, Foldable Legs |
Strong mechanical hold on thick leather; stylish and durable |
Opt for antique brass or gunmetal finishes for premium appeal |
|
Backpacks & Fabric Bags |
Foldable Legs, Rivets, Sew-On |
Prongs go through fabric easily; rivets for long-term use |
Use interior lining to cover prong bends and avoid user discomfort |
|
Shoes & Footwear |
Foldable Legs, Adhesive (for insole) |
Foldable legs offer fast attachment without stitching |
Consider heat-proof glue for interior shoe branding |
|
Hats & Caps |
Sew-On, Adhesive |
Lightweight solutions that don't alter hat structure |
Ensure label doesn't interfere with hat flexibility or shape |
|
Event Badges & Retail Displays |
Magnetic, Pin-Backed |
Quick to remove/reuse without damage |
Use for seasonal branding or temporary exhibitions |
|
Custom Jewelry Tags |
Foldable Legs, Adhesive |
Must be compact and subtle |
Laser-engraved micro tags offer premium detail in a small format |
Factors such as product surface hardness, product lifecycle, and customer experience also need to be considered when choosing a metal label fixing method.
Choose the right fixing method for your metal labels to ensure the quality of your products and improve your brand image at the same time.
Whether you are a startup apparel brand, a well-established OEM manufacturer, or a designer with a customization concept, kunshuo is your trusted OEM/ODM manufacturer for metal labels, contact our professional labeling team for customization suggestions based on your type and material.
Our advantages:
1. More than 18 years metal label manufacturing experience
2. Provide a variety of techniques for customized labels: silkscreen, imitation enamel, skeleton, frosted, embossed, etc.
3. Provide a comprehensive selection of electroplating colors
4. Samples and flexible MOQ available
5. Global shipping and multi-language support
