A neck label is both a brand mark and a legal label. The fold style changes what a wearer or inspector can see without folding the label open, and some folds hide information. Choose the fold from the information you must show, not just from the look.

Common fold types

An end-fold label is folded at both ends and sewn flat so that the whole label shows and its ends are hidden. A centre-fold label is folded in half, like a loop, and sewn into the seam by its ends, showing only the front. A printed label is applied directly on the fabric or a transfer without sewing, which gives a tagless feel. Each affects readability and feel against the neck.

What the rules require

Under the FTC Textile Rules, 16 CFR Part 303, a product with a neck must have a label disclosing the country of origin affixed to the inside centre of the neck midway between the shoulder seams, or near another label there. The country of origin must always appear on the front side of its label. Fibre content and the RN or company name may be on the same label or another conspicuous and readily accessible label. The label must be secure and durable enough to remain attached until delivered to the consumer.

Care information

The care label under 16 CFR Part 423 must be permanent, attached so it will not become separated, and remain legible during the useful life of the product. A centre-fold label is useful because the front is visible and the folded inner side carries care text, but ask whether the inner text is readable without unpicking. Do not put required text where the fold hides it.

Comfort and durability

Test finished garments with a washing procedure such as ISO 6330 for the target cycles and check fraying, curling, legibility and ink loss on printed labels. Check how the label edge feels on a neck, especially on sensitive skin.

What to write

Give label type, fold, size, position, wording and the side for each line in the tech pack, and approve a washed sample.