The history of cotton labels begins in the 19th century, when entrepreneurs first used them to label clothing. Over time, they became a symbol of quality and sustainability. As a renowned manufacturer of cotton labels, Wunderlabel is always keen to share information about its products.
19th century: The Emergence of Cotton Labels
Textile manufacturers used cotton labels in the clothing industry as early as the 19th century. Initially, these labels contained information such as sizes, care instructions and brand names. The quality of the labels was often inconsistent as manufacturers wrote or stamped each label by hand. The process was slow and the labels were time consuming to produce.
Cotton as a Raw Material and the Industrial Revolution
Farmers extracted cotton from the bolls of the cotton plant. It is a raw material highly valued for its natural properties such as softness, breathability and durability. In the 19th century, however, the extraction of cotton was often a labor-intensive process, particularly in the southern United States. During the Industrial Revolution, inventions such as the cotton gin helped to make the extraction of the raw material cheaper and more accessible.
Industrial Revolution and Technological Advances
The advent of industrial printing presses in the late 19th and early 20th centuries revolutionized the production of cotton labels. Flexographic printing, which had been around since the late 19th century, allowed cotton labels to be produced more quickly. As a result, cotton labels became widely used in the clothing industry. In addition to flexography, other technologies such as screen and offset printing were used, allowing for even greater variety and detail in the labels.
20th Century: Diffusion and Standardization
Many textile manufacturers, from luxury brands to mass producers, used cotton labels in the 20th century. Consumers increasingly saw the information printed on the labels as a sign of the quality and value of the product. The use and attachment of cotton labels became widespread in the USA. It was a time when brand identity and product quality became more important.
21st Century: Quality and Branding
In the 21st century, cotton labels have taken on a new meaning. Made from natural fibers, they are durable, soft and environmentally friendly. Today, they are used worldwide in the fashion industry to display brand logos or provide information on textile care and garment sizes. Their popularity continues to grow as they offer both aesthetic and functional benefits. Companies are increasingly turning to cotton labels to enhance brand recognition and add value to their products. In addition, the growing awareness of sustainability has increased the demand for environmentally friendly materials such as cotton.
Wunderlabel also offers high quality, sustainably produced cotton labels that meet both the aesthetic and environmental requirements of the modern garment industry.
