Manufacturer · Fashion Accessories
Handmade leather labels are small patches of genuine or faux leather with the words "Handmade" or the maker's name, sewn onto knitwear, hats, bags, toys and other handcrafted products. They are usually 3–6 cm in size, with pre-punched holes for hand sewing and an embossed or laser-engraved logo. They mark the product as artisan-made and turn a hobby into a recognisable brand.
Why handmade leather labels
On handcrafted products, the label tells the buyer two things: that the product was made by a person, not on a production line, and who is behind it. Leather reinforces this message – it is a natural, warm material associated with craft and durability. A small leather patch on the corner of a knitted blanket or the cuff of a hat makes the product look more finished and justifies a higher price.
Which products they suit
- Knitted hats, scarves, jumpers and blankets – the most common application.
- Knitted and crocheted toys – a small label on the seam or on the back.
- Hand-sewn bags and totes – a label on the front panel or on the handle.
- Leather goods – wallets, cases, key rings.
- Home textiles – cushions, baskets, tea towels.
- Wooden and ceramic products – a leather strip or tag as a gift accent.
What to put on the label
The text must be short – the label is small. Here are options that work well:
- "Handmade" or "Hand made" – the simplest message.
- "Handmade by [name]" or "Made by [name]" – personal and memorable.
- Brand name and symbol – if you already have a logo.
- "Made with love" or a short slogan – for gift items.
- Year or city – adds history and authenticity.
A combination of a symbol (heart, ball of yarn, needles, initial) and a short text is the most common. Avoid more than two lines of text if the label is under 5 cm.
Size and shape
| Product | Suitable size | Shape |
|---|---|---|
| Hat, cuff | 4–6 × 2–3 cm | Rectangle with rounded corners, oval |
| Scarf, blanket | 5–7 × 2.5–3.5 cm | Rectangle |
| Toy | 2–3 cm | Circle, small rectangle |
| Bag, tote | 5–8 cm | Rectangle, circle |
| Folded label in a seam | 1.5–2 × 6–8 cm (unfolded) | Strip folded in two |
A folded label (flag label) is inserted into the seam of the product and is visible from both sides. It suits scarves, blankets and toys when you do not want to sew the label on top.
Material: genuine or faux leather
Genuine leather emphasises the artisan character and develops a patina over time. Faux leather is thinner, more flexible, comes in more colours and tolerates washing better – important if the product will be washed often, for example children's hats or blankets. If you sell to people looking for products free of animal-derived materials, faux leather is the obvious choice, and it is good to state this in the product description.
How to sew a handmade label onto knitwear
- Choose a label with pre-punched holes – one at each corner or around the whole edge.
- Use yarn or thread matching the product, or a contrasting one for a decorative effect.
- Sew with a blunt knitting needle that passes between the stitches without splitting them.
- Do not pull too tight – the knit must remain elastic.
- Tie the knot on the inside and hide the ends between the stitches.
With thin and loose knits, it helps to place a small piece of fabric behind the label to distribute the load.
Marking techniques for small labels
- Laser engraving – best for small runs, fine fonts and frequent text changes. No die is needed.
- Embossing/debossing – a classic, deep relief; economical for larger quantities of one design.
- Foil – gold or silver for gift items.
From hobby to brand
Many small makers start with ready-made "Handmade" labels and at some point switch to labels with their own name and logo. This is the logical step once products start selling online or in shops – your own label makes the product recognisable and encourages repeat purchases. Together with the leather label, consider a small cardboard hang tag with your story, care instructions and contact details, as well as an inner woven label for garments.
Ready-made or personalised labels
Ready-made labels with a general "Handmade" inscription are convenient for getting started – they require no design and can be used immediately. Personalised ones, with your name or logo, cost more at first but build recognition. Laser engraving needs no die, so even a small quantity with your name is realistic. A good approach is to start with a small run and, once you see which size and colour buyers like, order a larger quantity with embossing.
Information you should not leave out
If you sell textile products, besides the decorative label the buyer must receive information about the fibre composition. In the EU this is governed by Regulation (EU) 1007/2011. If you use a genuine leather label on a textile product, the composition must state that the product contains non-textile parts of animal origin. Care symbols are not mandatory under the regulation but are strongly recommended – especially for wool and delicate yarns.
Handmade leather labels with your name from Polkom
Polkom makes small leather labels with your name, logo or the word "Handmade" – in genuine and faux leather, with punched holes for sewing, and laser-engraved, embossed or foil-stamped. Send your idea and quantity via our contact page – we will suggest a suitable option and a sample.
