Learning how to attach hang tags correctly is essential if you want your products to look professional and avoid damage to fabrics. Hang tags (also known as swing tags) are labels attached to products to display information such as price, size, or branding.Using a common theme between business cards, packaging, labels and hang tags for special occasions gives your brand a memorable and unified look which is always a good thing when you want to stand out from the masses. Luckily, Wunderlabel hang tags are easy to design and order.
In this guide, you’ll learn the most common ways to attach hang tags, when to use cords, ribbons, or tagging guns, and practical tips to avoid common mistakes.
Methods for Attaching Hang Tags
There are several effective methods for attaching hang tags, depending on your product type and workflow.
The most common options include:
- cords with snap lock
- string, ribbon, or plain cords
- tagging guns with plastic fasteners (tag pins).
1. Using Hang Tag Cords with Snap Lock
This is one of the easiest and most secure ways to attach hang tags and it does not require special tools. All you need to do is pull the special hang tag cord through the tag and through your item, then snap the tiny "lock" shut.
How it works:
- Insert the cord through the hole in the hang tag
- Loop it through your product (e.g. label or seam)
- Close the snap lock
Best for:
- retail clothing
- premium products
- fast application without tools
Advantages:
- no tools required
- secure and tamper-proof
- clean, professional look
2. Using String, Ribbon, or Plain Cords
A flexible and cost-effective option. For simple cords, strings and ribbons, the ends must be tied so that the tags can be securely attached to your items.
2.1. Loop
- Pull the cord through the hang tag
- Tie a simple loop around the product
2.2 Anchored Loop
- Fold the cord in half
- Insert the folded end through the tag
- Simply knot the cord around a clothing label, through a buttonhole, or around a strap on the garment.
Best for: Handmade products, gift items, custom packaging.
TIP: Always attach tags through seams, buttonholes, labels to avoid damaging fabric.
The addition of a safety pin to snaplock cords or any other cord/ribbon allows you the freedom to pin the hang tag in any location. Most hang tags are pinned onto the clothing label or along a seam to avoid leaving a small hole.
3. Using a Tagging Gun (Tag Pins)
A tagging gun is the standard tool in retail for attaching hang tags quickly. Tagging guns use a plastic fastener, also referred to as tagging barbs, to attach the hang tag directly to the garment. The process is quick and easy if you follow these simple steps.
Load the tagging gun with plastic fasteners by following the manufacturer’s instructions.
How to attach hang tags with a tagging gun:
> Load the gun with plastic fasteners (tag pins)
> Place the hang tag onto the needle
> Insert the needle through a seam or label
> Pull the trigger to secure the tag
Best for:
- high-volume production
- retail environments
- fast and consistent tagging
Important:
Avoid tagging directly through fabric to prevent holes.
Slip the hang tag over the needle with the front of the hang tag facing the tagging gun. Our hang tag was double sided.
Choose where on the garment you would like to attach the hang tag. As stated before, most often hang tags are attached through a seam or clothing label to avoid leaving a hole in the fabric of the garment. Shirts, for example, are often tagged at the inside seam at the end of a sleeve, under the arm seam, or at the neckline.
Insert the needle of the tagging gun into the fabric and hold in place.
Squeeze the trigger of the tagging gun to engage the fastener. The end of the fastener will come through the needle and hold the hang tag in place.
Your tag is now attached!
Which Method Should You Choose?
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When attaching hang tags, small mistakes can damage your product or reduce perceived quality:
- Attaching directly through fabric
- Using weak knots that come loose
- Choosing the wrong cord length
- Misplacing the tag (e.g. visible damage areas)
Pro Tips for a Professional Look
- Use consistent materials across packaging and branding
- Match cord colour with your brand identity
- Keep placement consistent across all products
- Consider adding QR codes for digital interaction
Create Custom Hang Tags for Your Brand
If you want your products to stand out, custom-designed hang tags are essential. With the right design, materials, and attachment method, you can significantly enhance your brand perception.
Of course, hang tags can be used on an array of products and are not limited to just clothing.
If you’re interested in designing your own customised hang tags, visit our website to get started! Our hang tag configurator offers a wide range of features, including options to insert text, symbols, or your logo to create the perfect look for your brand. One of the standout features is the built-in QR code generator, allowing you to easily add a scannable code directly to your hang tag for seamless digital interaction with your customers.
Start designing your own hang tags with our configurator and create a consistent, professional look across all your products!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you attach hang tags without a tagging gun?
You can use cords, ribbons, or snap lock fasteners. These methods require no tools and are ideal for small businesses.
Do tagging guns damage clothing?
They can if used incorrectly. Always attach tags through seams or labels to avoid holes.
What is the best way to attach hang tags to clothing?
For most brands, snap lock cords offer the best balance between ease of use and professional appearance.
Can you reuse tag pins?
No, most plastic fasteners are designed for single use.
