Aweh Gifting

You have wrapped the gift, added the ribbon, and now comes the last small decision: how to say who it is for and who it is from. The two most common options are a hanging name tag and a sticker label. Both are cheap and quick, but they behave very differently once they are on a present. Here is how they compare.

What each one is

Name tags are small cards or pieces of paper with a hole or string, designed to hang from a ribbon or tie onto the present. They can also be stick-on tags that are attached with adhesive, but the classic version is the hanging kind.

Stickers are adhesive labels you press straight onto the paper or box. They range from plain white address-style labels to decorative stickers with patterns, foil, or illustrations.

Ease of use

Stickers are quicker. You write the name, peel the backing, and press it on. There is nothing to tie or thread, and no need for a ribbon to hang them from.

Name tags need a little more setup. You have to write the name, thread string or ribbon through the hole, and tie it on. That is not hard, but it takes longer, and it assumes you have something to attach it to.

Appearance

Name tags have a more traditional, finished look. A tag hanging from a bow gives the present a classic feel and room for a longer message. They can be made from plain card for a rustic look or decorated for a more festive one.

Stickers look neat and modern. They sit flat on the wrapping, so they do not dangle or get in the way, which can be an advantage on flat gifts or bags. However, a sticker on busy wrapping paper can be hard to read.

Space for writing

Tags usually give you more room. You can write a name, a message, and your own name on the same card, and some tags are folded so they open like a mini greeting card.

Stickers are smaller. They are fine for a name or a short note, but a longer message gets cramped.

Staying power

This is where the two differ in practice.

• Name tags can fall off if the string is not tied securely, or get caught on something while the present is carried. On the other hand, a tag tied properly will not leave a mark on the paper.
• Stickers can peel at the corners, especially on textured or glossy paper, or lift when they are stacked with other presents. Cheap stickers may not stick well to metallic or laminated wrapping.

If a present will be moved, stacked, or carried in a bag, check that whichever you choose is firmly attached before you hand it over.

Cost

Both are inexpensive. A pack of stickers is usually the cheapest option per label. Pre-made tags cost a little more, but you can make your own from scrap card, old greeting cards, or leftover paper at almost no cost.

Environmental impact

• Tags made from plain card are typically recyclable, and a well-made tag can be reused for another gift. String or ribbon can also be reused.
• Stickers are harder to recycle. The adhesive and backing sheet are usually thrown away, and stickers with foil, glitter, or plastic coatings are not recyclable. A sticker left on wrapping paper can also make the paper harder to recycle.

If you want a lower-waste option, tags made from recycled card are the better choice.

Which should you choose?

• Choose a name tag when you have a ribbon to hang it from, want a traditional look, need space for a message, or like the idea of reusing the tag.
• Choose a sticker when you are short on time, the gift is a bag or flat package with no ribbon, or you want a clean, flat finish.
• Choose either for everyday birthdays and small gifts, depending on what you have at hand.

A few practical tips

• Write the names before you stick or tie anything on, and use a pen that will not smudge on shiny paper.
• Place the label where it can be seen easily, such as the top of a box or the front of a bag.
• On busy wrapping paper, use a plain white sticker or tag so the writing is easy to read.
• If you are labeling many presents, a quick system, such as one color for each person, can save time.
• Press stickers firmly for a few seconds, especially at the edges.

The bottom line

Name tags are the better pick for a classic look, longer messages, and lower waste. Stickers are the faster, flatter, and simpler choice for gifts without ribbon. Neither is wrong, so pick whichever suits the present and the time you have, and make sure the name is easy to read.