Label Sizes for Jars: How to Pick the Right One for Your Products

Best labels for glass jars and how to pick the right size

Sample of jar labels

In the competitive world of small businesses, every detail counts when it comes to your product presentation. Choosing the right label sizes for jars isn’t just about aesthetics, it’s an important decision that impacts your brand visibility, the consumers’ perception, and the product’s appeal. Whether you’re crafting artisanal preserves, gourmet sauces, or unique skincare products, the size of your jar labels plays a crucial role in communicating your brand’s message effectively.

This article covers picking your label sizes for jars, how the label’s size affects readability, design considerations, and market trends. We also offer some jar label and lid size charts to guide you in picking the right label size.

Measure your jars

The first thing to consider when selecting label sizes is the dimensions of your jars. Whether you’re using standard Mason jars, sleek cylindrical containers, or uniquely shaped bottles, the label should complement the jar’s size and shape. A label that’s too large will overwhelm a small jar, while a label that’s too small might not provide enough space for essential information or branding elements.

Measure the available surface area on your jars and lids. Then choose a label size that fits snugly without covering important features.

measure your jar's height
measure your jar's circumference
measure your lid's diameter

Readability

The main function of product labels is to convey information clearly and effectively. Ensure that the ingredients, instructions, and any regulatory information required for your product are easy to read. Consider the font size and style you plan to use, as well as the amount of text you need. A balance between text size and label size is crucial to ensure that consumers can quickly find the information they need without having to strain their eyes.

Label design

Product labels showcase your brand’s identity and hopefully capture the attention of potential customers. The size of your labels will significantly influence your design. Larger labels provide more space for vibrant graphics, logos, and promotional messages, while smaller labels can create a minimalist, elegant look. They may also be necessary for jar sizes where space is limited. So make sure and think about your branding goals and how different label sizes can help you achieve them.

Current market trends and consumer preferences can provide you with lots of valuable insight in the latest labeling trends. Research what competitors are doing in your industry and consider consumer feedback regarding packaging and labeling. Minimalism, eco-friendliness, and premium packaging are current trends that may influence your decision.

Making the decision

Choosing the right label size for your jars is a decision that will impact both the aesthetic appeal and effectiveness of your packaging. By carefully considering factors such as jar size and shape, readability, your design, and market trends, you can create labels that not only enhance product visibility but also communicate brand values and engage consumers.

Whether you’re aiming for a striking visual impact or prioritizing information, the right label size can make a significant difference in how your products are perceived on store shelves and online. So make sure to take the time to evaluate your options and experiment with different sizes to find the perfect fit for your unique offerings.

Check out some sample jar and lid sizes we put together to give you and idea of what labels might work best on your jars. These are just guidelines to give you an idea of how the label will look. But try different label shapes and sizes to find the best fit for your jars. Remember, with Avery Labels you can order custom printed labels or blank labels on sheets or rolls. The choice is yours.

Jar lid size chart

Jar lid size chart

For a 3.85” lid, use a 3” round label

For a 3.35” lid, use a 2.5” round label

For a 2.56” lid, use a 2” round label

Round jar labels size chart

Round jar labels size chart

For 20 oz jars, use a 3″ round label

For 15 oz jars, use a 2.5” round label

For 7 oz jars, use a 2″ round label

Square jar labels size chart

Square jar labels size chart

For 20 oz jars, use a 3″ square label

For 15 oz jars, use a 2.5” square label

For 7 oz jars, use a 2″ square label

Author: Melanie Neff

Melanie has an extensive writing background built on an impressive journalism foundation. As a reporter for USA Today and The Los Angeles Times for almost 20 years, she covered everything from the Los Angeles riots, fires, and floods to LA Lakers, Raiders and Clippers games and movie premieres. She followed her newspaper career with a long tenure covering commercial real estate financing and development. Melanie has been writing about small business marketing and labeling needs for the last 12 years. She thrives on reading, researching and expanding her knowledge of everything going on in today's business world and looks to provide the most valuable information she can to her readers.