Paper Tags
Paper materials provide the best combination of quality and cost-effectiveness for indoor use. They can be printed with vibrant colors and sharp text while remaining easy to write on with pens and pencils.
Paper Tag Thickness
The most common material used in the hang tag industry is 13pt SU, (uncoated-matte finish), or 13pt. CSU (coated for better ink adherence) paper tag stock. We inventory numerous colors in this paper, and our sheet-fed printing capabilities allow us to offer printing on many different stock papers.
13pt. Cardstock
The Industry Standard
Often described as being "a bit thicker than a traditional manila folder," 13pt. cardstock measures 0.013 inches thick and is the most common material used in the hang tag industry. It is available in numerous colors with a matte (uncoated) or glossy (coated) finish and can printed with spot, 4-color process and digital technologies.
Thicker Papers
For Added Durability
To protect against tearing, bending or damage caused by extensive handling or a challenging environment, thicker papers can be specified. At St. Louis Tag we have the capability to produce tags up to 18pt. thickness.
Thinner Papers
Low Cost at High Volume
While not very functional for most hang tag applications, thin papers are often specified for retail or merchandising tags for high volume products. While there are some cost savings to using thinner paper, these savings are typically only achieved with very high volumes.
Matte (Uncoated) vs. Glossy (Coated)
Some of our paper stock options come coated or uncoated. This refers to the finish of the tag.
Uncoated Stock
Uncoated stock has a matte finish and feel. It allows for vibrant colors while still providing functionality, as you can use most writing materials on its surface with ease.
Coated Stock
Coated stock has a slight gloss and allows for better ink adherence. This is great for designs that utilize detailed graphics or have large areas of solid color. Coated stock provides rich colors for these features but has some resistance when it comes to writing on the tag. Permanent markers are suggested for writing on any side of the tag that is coated.
Multi-Part Tag Materials
Best for Tracking and Record-Keeping
Carbonless multi-part tags create instant documentation without the mess of traditional carbon paper. Multi-part tags allow you to keep permanent records while providing copies for different departments or processes.
Carbonless Paper
For multi-part or manifold tags, we offer carbonless paper systems that create instant copies without the mess of traditional carbon paper. These materials are perfect for tracking systems, inspection records, and inventory management.
Available Carbonless Paper Options Include:
- CB and CFB - basic colors
- CF Manila-105 Tag (7.5 pt.)
- CF White-105 Tag (7.5 pt.)
Carbon Interleaved
For multi-part or manifold tags needing tag stock colors for the 2nd, 3rd part or 4th part, we offer numerous 13pt tag stock color options for the last part with a black sheet of carbon paper inserted between each piece of paper substrate that creates instant copies between the parts. These materials are perfect for wanting that last part to be a vibrant stock color that stands out for tracking systems, inspection records, and inventory management.
Available Carbon Interleaved Paper Options Include:
- Parts 1, 2 or 3 - 20 lb. bond of basic colors.
- Bottom parts 2, 3 or 4 - 13pt tag stock of basic colors.

Choose St. Louis Tag For Custom Hang Tags
Since 1959, St. Louis Tag has helped customers create their perfect custom hang tag. Our team can guide you through the material selection process and make recommendations based on your specific requirements. Contact us today for expert advice and a free quote on your custom hang tag project.




