Printed Tape Is Made – A Simple Guide for Small Businesses

Printed tape is made using a combination of film or paper materials, adhesives, and industrial printing methods. For small businesses, understanding this process helps you order better-quality packaging, avoid design issues, and use branded tape as a cost-effective marketing tool.

In this guide, you’ll learn how printed tape is made, explained step by step, using simple language and real packaging examples.

What Materials Are Used When Printed Tape Is Made

Before production begins, manufacturers select the base material and adhesive type. These choices affect strength, cost, and sustainability.

Common materials include:

BOPP film (polypropylene) – durable, glossy, and affordable
PVC film – flexible and strong
Kraft paper – recyclable and eco-friendly

Adhesives typically used:

Acrylic (clear, UV-resistant)
Hot melt (strong, fast bonding)
Natural rubber (heavy-duty sealing)

Choosing the right combination ensures the tape performs well during shipping.

How Printed Tape Is Made Step by Step

Step 1: Preparing the Base Material

Large master rolls of plain film or paper are mounted onto production machines. The surface must be smooth so branding prints clearly.

Step 2: Applying the Adhesive

One side of the material is coated with adhesive using precision rollers. The coated layer is then dried or cured to achieve proper stickiness.

Step 3: Printing the Design

This is where branding is added.

Most manufacturers use flexographic printing, which is ideal for:

Logos
Repeating patterns
Text-based designs

Ink is transferred onto the surface using custom plates.

Step 4: Drying and Curing

After printing, the tape passes through heated tunnels so the ink bonds permanently. This prevents smudging or fading during transit.

Step 5: Slitting and Rewinding

The wide master roll is cut into standard widths (usually 48mm or 72mm) and rewound into individual rolls.

Step 6: Quality Control

Each roll is inspected for:

Print alignment
Color accuracy
Adhesive strength
Roll consistency

Only approved batches move to final packaging.

Printing Methods Used in Custom Packaging Tape

Flexographic Printing

The most common method for branded sealing tape because it is:

Cost-effective for bulk orders
Fast and reliable
Suitable for simple, bold designs

Digital Printing

Best for:

Low minimum orders
Multiple artwork versions
Short production runs

This option works well for startups testing branding.

Common Mistakes to Avoid During Production

Using Low-Quality Artwork

Low-resolution files result in blurry logos and poor brand perception.

Choosing the Wrong Adhesive

Not all adhesives work on recycled boxes or cold environments.

Overly Complex Designs

Fine details and gradients may not print clearly on narrow tape.

Ignoring Tape Width

Designs should always be created to match the final roll size.

Why Branded Tape Matters for Small Businesses

When produced correctly, branded packaging tape provides:

Affordable brand exposure on every box
Tamper-evident sealing
A professional unboxing experience
Better brand recall

FAQs About How Printed Tape Is Made

How long does production take?

Usually 7–14 business days, depending on order size and print method.

Is custom tape expensive?

No. It’s one of the most affordable branding tools in packaging.

Can eco-friendly options be produced?

Yes. Paper-based tape with water-based ink is recyclable.

What file format should I submit?

Vector files such as AI, PDF, or EPS work best.

Helpful Resources

Conclusion: Understanding How Printed Tape Is Made Helps You Choose Better

When you understand how printed tape is made, you can select better materials, avoid design mistakes, and use custom packaging tape as a powerful branding tool. With the right supplier and setup, printed tape improves security, marketing, and customer experience at a low cost.

If you’re ready to order for custom design, contact at packagingseller.com and upgrade your packaging today.