Kraft paper labels and other sustainable materials are a natural fit for summer, especially for brands selling homemade goods like candles, soaps, or baked treats.
When your packaging needs to reflect a sun-soaked, down-to-earth aesthetic, eco-friendly labels deliver both the look and the values your customers are shopping for.
Why Summer Design Calls for Paper Labels
Labels set the tone before anyone takes a bite, lights a wick, or opens a jar. In the summer, buyers gravitate toward handmade, small-batch, and seasonal items. Choosing paper labels like kraft or bright white felt instantly signals that artisan quality, with texture and finish that match the vibe.
Here’s why:
- Textured paper surfaces feel more organic and authentic than slick films
- Neutral, earthy tones like kraft pair naturally with florals, fruits, and herb-inspired designs
- Sustainability messaging lands stronger in warm weather when farmer’s markets and seasonal shopping are top of mind
Benefits of Kraft and Bright White Felt Labels in Summer
Both kraft paper and bright white felt bring something extra to your summer packaging. They look handcrafted, and they hold up well with proper storage and application.
Kraft Paper Labels
- Made from post-consumer waste (PCW) materials
- Brown, unbleached finish for an eco-conscious look
- Works well with black ink or white ink designs
- Popular for natural soaps, candles, jams, baked goods, and handmade skincare
Bright White Felt Labels
- Paper-based, yet thick and lightly textured
- Has a high-end matte finish
- Ideal for detailed logos, typefaces, and colorful summer designs
- Feels upscale but still natural
Sustainability Isn’t Just a Trend. It’s a Selling Point
According to the 2024 Global Sustainability Study by Simon-Kucher, more than 70% of consumers consider sustainability when making a purchase. And for younger buyers, it’s even higher.
Summer is your best season to lean into those values:
- Outdoor events and markets attract eco-conscious shoppers
- Less packaging waste feels better in warmer months
- Natural visuals are everywhere, so your label should match
By switching to eco friendly labels now, your packaging will better align with how customers are shopping and thinking.
Which Products Benefit Most from Sustainable Labels in Summer?
Paper-based sustainable label materials work especially well for:
- Handmade soaps and bath products with floral or herbal scents
- Candles in summer-themed fragrances like citrus, coconut, or eucalyptus
- Small-batch food items like sauces, jams, and pickled goods
- Baked goods packaged for local events or gift boxes
- Skincare products featuring minimal, clean ingredients
They also help smaller brands look more cohesive and confident on the shelf next to mass-produced goods.
Keep This in Mind When Applying Paper Labels in Summer
Paper materials are more porous than synthetics, which gives them that rustic feel. It also means:
- Apply to clean, dry surfaces only
- Avoid direct exposure to water or refrigeration (unless using laminated options)
- Store labels in a cool, dry place before use
For products that need moisture or oil resistance, ask about protective varnishes or specialty label finishes that pair well with paper stock.
Ready for a More Natural Look?
If your products already feel handmade, your labels should reflect that too. Swapping to kraft paper labels or bright white felt in the summer months can help your packaging feel more seasonal, more intentional, and more in tune with what today’s shoppers expect.
Looking to make a small change with big visual impact? Our kraft paper labels are a great place to start.