Assess adhesive applications Examine the usage, type, and qualities of PSAs you need. You'll use different types for various applications, including envelopes, shipping, product tags and barcodes, and nametags. Now, go to the experts in all things sticky – Avery.

I recommend:  Avery is a worldwide label giant. Their Web site offers endless ideas, free templates, printable label forms and more. Sign up for a free newsletter for special offers/freebies.

Consider the conditions If you're thinking about placing labels on products exposed to constant sunlight, excessive temperatures (such as a grocer's freezer), or other harsh environments, talk to PSA experts who will advise on the best materials and adhesives to choose.

I recommend:  Western States Envelope and Label's detailed checklist and free downloadable Resource Guide helps you pin down your business's needs by machine-applied, barcoded, or specific performance. NEBS has a wide selection of labels geared to small business needs.

Buy online for less Label costs can add up if you're not careful. Cut costs without cutting quality by visiting online stores for the standard products, at less than standard pricing.

I recommend:  Online Labels has sold over 5 billion labels online with low prices and same-day shipping. At PrintMyThing you can design and order custom labels in four easy steps.

Go ahead and DIY! Today's do-it-yourself labels barely resemble the amateur 'stickers' of 5 or 10 years ago. Label-makers have come a long way, baby, so check them out.

I recommend:  Some types of Avery Software can be downloaded for free, and most include free online training. Avery templates are built into many popular software programs through its Software Alliances – including several Mac software programs, such as Mac OS X Tiger, MS Word for Mac, and more. Download the free Avery Wizard Printing Software (as an add-on to MS Word), which formats up to 475 Avery products.

Determine what type of adhesive label to use You can order custom printed labels or you can select from an inventory of premade labels. You can also buy die cut template sheets and print your own adhesive labels. If your product comes in contact with moisture, consider using waterproof adhesive labels made from vinyl. Self-adhesive labels stick to products without the need for the user to moisten the adhesive.

I recommend:  International Paper provides an in-depth overview of the properties for adhesive labels, including the face stock, primer and top-coat. Use the checklist at Badger Tag & Label to determine what type of adhesive label best fits your needs. You can click on the links provided for information on properties like stocks, colors and finishes.

Purchase or download a software program specifically for adhesive labels Whether you want to use adhesive shipping labels, self adhesive address labels or labels to mark your inventory, you can print your own with the right templates. Most manufacturers of adhesive labels use templates for both the die cut sheets of blank adhesive labels and for the software that places your text in the correct position.

I recommend:  WorldLabel.com provides downloadable templates for Adobe, Avery and Microsoft Word. You can order CD templates or use the company's PDF templates. Avery, a powerhouse manufacturer in the adhesive label industry, provides free software on its website. You can use templates, download software to work with Microsoft Office or create online designs.

Bundle software with adhesive label makers For companies that plan to use a high volume of adhesive labels, it may be cost effective to purchase an adhesive label printer that comes with software. Most of these have templates so you can create general labels like self adhesive shipping labels or speciality labels like barcodes.

I recommend:  DYMO offers demos of how to use its software with its label printers and other products. You can also create your own bundle to ensure you get the best package for your needs. BuyHeatShrink.com carries the Datamax I-Class series of label printers, which come with everything you need to use them, including the software.

Order adhesive labels that you can print on Most labels designed for use with a printer are self adhesive labels. These labels come in all shapes, sizes and colors and can perform a variety of tasks, including marking files, organizing locations or denoting the price of items. Software programs that work with specific layouts of adhesive labels allow you to print return address labels, shipping labels and other styles of pre-set labels.

I recommend:  Choose from a variety of styles, sizes, shapes and colors for adhesive labels designed for laser and inkjet printers at WorldLabel.com. PressLabel.com offers die cut template sheets of laser printer l