Labeltjes

Labeltjes are small labels or stickers used to identify or categorize items. They are usually made of paper, synthetic materials, or fabric and may have an adhesive backing or a removable string. The diminutive form -tje indicates small size and familiarity in Dutch.

In Dutch, labeltje is the diminutive of label, a term for a tag or title attached to objects. The concept is common across many languages, with regional terms for small labels varying by material and attachment method.

Materials and formats: Labeltjes can be printed or handwritten. Paper labels are common for jars and folders; plastic or vinyl labels resist moisture; fabric labeltjes are used on clothing. Attachment methods include self-adhesive backing, heat-activated glue, or cords.

Applications: They are used in packaging, inventory, price tagging, library or archive labeling, and crafts or scrapbooking. In offices and retail, labeltjes help organize supplies and products, while households use them for labeling cables, jars, plants, and games.

History: Adhesive labels emerged in the late 19th to early 20th century, evolving from simple handwritten tags to mass-produced self-adhesive items. The use of labeltjes expanded with consumer packaging, labeling standards, and creative projects such as labeling boards or educational materials.