Do you want a manual input, or one to connect to your computer? Always consider the price of labels when making the decision.

I used to have a Brother hand-held manual input one that I really liked, but I gave it away when the need passed. I have a Dymo Labelwriter hooked up to my computer that I use for larger labels (envelopes, jars, boxes etc).

Another option is to buy Avery sheets of labels that you can put into a printer, but for that you'd have to download a template. It's easy, but it's best when you want a whole page of the same label (for instance return address labels).

I think I just want a handheld, manual input one, but it looks like they only print in one size.

Ive tried the Avery labels with a sharpie, but they dont stick to plastic boxes very well.

Since this is for home use and not very frequent, I dont want to make it any more complicated than it has to be. Would rather not get involved with computers and printers, although i have both.

We have a Brother P-touch which runs off power or batteries. It’s used quite a lot as I use it for plant labels, cord labels, files, containers, and whatever else I need a reminder of what it’s for. It is at least 6-7 years old and is perfect for our needs. Font style and size can be easily adjusted. It is similar to the PTD210 model on A-zon.

I really like it. It's pretty simple. Link. 6 variable sizes. We have clear tape, you have to buy bigger tape for bigger sizes. prints bold black letters. I've labeled my TAL mug I take to the gym(It's rigid, label stays on it). ALL my bread making ingredients plastic containers....if the plastic flexes...then the label does come off. Dollar Tree sells sheets of letters I've used for craft projects when I need BIG letters.

DIY Labels Link

I've also seen a way to use your printer and clear packing tape to make labels any size you want. I linked one of the videos above, but there are tons out there. I haven't tried the method yet.

I have a P-Touch, but it only does one size.

I have and have owned various types of label makers. Several print in different fonts and different sizes.

The label tapes/cartridges can be pricey, and there are a few tricks to save a bit of tape here and there.

My most expensive and flexible labeler is in its case, HIDING. It prints larger labels.

I am not sure, but I think it might have been this label maker below:

➡️ https://www.amazon.com/Brother-PT-D460BT-Business-Connected-Bluetooth®/dp/B0B1KZQ1HM/ref=sr_1_19?crid=I869LW7418MW&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.G5BajSIBjadmqkaOMAWcVRf4hpoYQRDevoSqOcWcUa0VH_vyMtV7xPwK8xHyEdMYuj_C0zuHKthXTnK3bII3QmFNoMCN9xQxZN0aYqjEzMfg6gsnJkivL9-oYahAnrDfp377G-j5-7XNzmbBYTme7OdfdSH0r8oVyJYyK1zgpw8Y92DxdW0bGLf3uOe-fcvFH2j5qAc7vqfGR2Dmox6jkcVspiOffUDDsxB70NuNFsQ.EiWwNwakKoHGL3HByPObXxnZ6zKJa4H6gO09GXTnlNE&dib_tag=se&keywords=label+maker&qid=1740862740&sprefix=labelmker%2Caps%2C78&sr=8-19&xpid=nPMhXjhF6FbrG

You do not need to go to any oligarch wannabe site, there are lots of vendors.

I think that is the label maker I have. I bought it years ago and it was supposed to have a more feature computer interface than ended up having and Ishold have returned it. But I’d already done so much research that my eyes were glazed over.

I also have a smaller labeler and you can get ”paper” or plasticized paper stock. The latter is helful if the label is going to be exposed to water or moisture.

My original labeler is a Dymo that embosses a plastic tape. I sometimes used that for new outdoor plants.

I do not have easy to read penmanship, thus a clear black on white narrow label was helpful for file folders.

If you ha e legible writing or are at all crafty, you can come up with less pricy alternatives. Scissors, modge-podge and old magazine.

PSI also have one like the one below, from Walmart.

The size of the label is limited by the size of the Dymo cartidges (1/2” wide tape, and actual writing is less). I bought this one for file folders and because someone gave me a large bag of new cartridges. Also, with these label makers I do not have to be at a computer, but can be in the garden or garage.

It looks like the Brother P-Touch N10 might fit what you need - inexpensive, 3 sizes of font, 3 different fonts, and 12' of label tape is about $7. Now that I'm looking at it, I'm thinking about one, LOL.

NYT Wirecutter addressed label makers just a couple of days ago.

LINK

I don’t have one. I want one but cannot justify it. My penmanship is good so I use tape and a Sharpie.

My handwriting is nothing to brag about and getting worse..

Thanks for all the feedback. Looks like Brother P has a number of them that would work for me.

Hey, BB, thanks for that link. I never knew there so many options.

We've had a Brother P-Touch at work for a few years now and it gets used a lot. It has a number of fonts and sizes of both typefaces and labels to choose from. It does make things look nice and is pretty easy to use too.

I have several boxes of donated address labels and permanent markers, so I use those as well.

Another thing I like to use that's a bit more fun is scrapbooking letter stickers. I've found a lot of cute ones at DollarTree. On things that get handled a lot, I put a strip of packing tape over them for durability. They are the easiest to read from a distance.

Carol, i would never have the patience for those stick on letters

I have the Brother P-touch like the one Carol posted. I use it frequently.

If you belong to Costco, they have a Brother P-Touch similar to one we have and similar to the one Carol posted. It doesn't come with the power adapter, but we were able to get one on Amazon for about $10 (might be more now). It has different fonts, sizes, special characters and can do 2 line labels. We also have a Dymo that DH likes. It doesn't have as many options so it is simpler for him, but it is battery only. One thing about the Brother P-Touch - you can get cartridges for other tapes, including and iron on fabric tape for labeling clothing or such. There are times in life when you need that. Amazon is probably the best source for the tape cartridges of all types. I've seen cards of them at Costco, but they are seasonal or occasional finds there.

Edited to include the link -- and to say the cards with additional cartridges are available online.

My daughter uses her Brother PT D100 a lot, and so I bought one also. I can't remember when, mayber 3 years ago? And I'm ashamed to say that although I have a lot of plans, for example to make labels for my many file folders, I have never yet used it. I am inspired by this thread to actually get going on this project!

Some libraries have a tools lending program.

Lascatx, thanks for that link. I am a Costco member. I have to be out that way tomorrow. Wonder if they have it instore. Oops, just looked, no it isnt. It does look like a good one for a good price. I must have ten of those adapters around the house.

I need it to be handy for when a project strikes e, so borrowing probably wouldnt work. I know my loval library doesnt lend tools. One of them lends cake pans.

Just occurred to me thatI coukd label theback of some ”heirlooms” so my kids will know what shouldnt be donated to the thrift shop when i kick the bucket.

I have a basic Dymo handheld for at least 15 years Screen pixels are almost completely burnt out, but the thing still works. Just have to type better then i do here

FWIW ded, I don't bother trying to apply letter stickers in a straight line, since that is way too finicky - I do it like this

My DH has had the Brother P-touch model PT-1750 for years & uses it a lot at home & did at work too. Pic below shows all the options. Very handy & have had for years.

I have a Brother and have been pleased with it. It's my second, I did manage to wear one out and didn't want to go to the trouble of sending it for repair at its age.

I used to grow more from seed for the garden than what I do now. I think the labels I made with that first Brother label maker are going to outlive me......

I don't use it as frequently now but find occasional use for it. It's in its box in my desk. I usually will keep the clear tape, black ink that seem to work on just about all but a black surface.

I did use it this last week. I put my name and phone number on the front of file folder I am leaving with my accountant tomorrow so my phone is front and ready should she have any questions. My 2024 tax info.....

If u go with the brother p-touch, I have a website where I can sign up and get generic label cartridges for cheap. Not at home right now, will post it later. They sell Brother ones, too.

EDIT: here's the website: https://www.ptouchdirect.com/ They have stuff for other kinds of machines, too. I signed up for emails, and they have "sales" all the time.

We also have a Brother P-Touch, and it has worked well for us. We bought it originally for printing labels for plants, so that I could remember what they are, but Kevin also used it for making large labels for his large metal tool cabinet. That way I can find tools more easily, as it has a lot of drawers. We need to move it from Salem to our new house, but it will have to wait until we hire a truck.