Can wet glue labels be applied by hand, or is a machine required?

Wet glue labels can be applied manually for samples, prototypes, craft production, or very small batches, so a machine is not technically required. However, automated or semi-automated application is generally preferred once production volumes increase.

Manual application requires glue to be applied consistently and the label to be positioned accurately before the adhesive sets. Variations in glue quantity, pressure, alignment, and handling can cause wrinkles, visible adhesive, uneven positioning, or inconsistent appearance between containers.

For commercial high-volume production, wet-glue labelling equipment provides much better repeatability, speed, glue control, and positioning accuracy. The economics of wet glue labelling are strongest when the format is paired with an appropriate production line.