What Exactly Are Dome Labels?
Dome labels, also known as domed stickers, 3D labels, or resin-domed decals, are premium adhesive labels that feature a raised, lens-shaped dome of clear polyurethane resin on their surface. This transparent resin coating gives the label a distinctive three-dimensional appearance with a glossy, glass-like finish that catches light and draws attention.
Unlike standard flat stickers, dome labels have a tactile quality that invites touch. The resin dome magnifies the printed design beneath it, making colors appear more vivid and details sharper. This combination of visual depth and physical texture is what makes dome labels the preferred choice for brands that want to make a lasting impression.
Dome labels are widely used for product branding, equipment identification, automotive emblems, promotional items, and anywhere a premium, durable label is needed. They are waterproof, UV-resistant, and built to last years in both indoor and outdoor environments.
How Dome Labels Are Made: The Manufacturing Process
The production of dome labels involves a precise, multi-step manufacturing process that combines digital printing technology with resin dispensing equipment. Here is how each step works:
Artwork Preparation & Digital Printing
The process begins with high-resolution digital printing of your design onto a specially coated vinyl or polyester substrate. Professional CMYK printing ensures vibrant, accurate colors. The substrate material is chosen for its adhesion properties and compatibility with the resin coating. Most manufacturers use UV-cured inks for maximum durability and color fastness.
Die-Cutting
After printing, the labels are precision die-cut to their final shape. This can be circles, squares, rectangles, ovals, or fully custom shapes that match your design. Die-cutting uses steel rule dies or digital cutting machines to achieve clean, precise edges. The accuracy of this step is critical because the resin dome will follow the exact outline of the cut label.
Resin Dispensing
This is the step that transforms a flat sticker into a dome label. Liquid polyurethane resin is precisely dispensed onto the surface of each label using automated dispensing equipment. The resin is a two-part compound that, when mixed, begins to self-level and form a dome shape due to surface tension. The amount of resin dispensed is carefully calibrated to create the perfect dome height without overflowing the edges of the label.
UV Curing & Quality Inspection
The dispensed resin is cured using ultraviolet light or allowed to cure at room temperature over 24-48 hours, depending on the resin type. UV curing is faster and produces a harder surface. Once cured, the dome becomes a solid, crystal-clear lens that is scratch-resistant and chemically stable. Each label undergoes visual quality inspection to ensure consistent dome height, clarity, and freedom from air bubbles or debris.
Materials Used in Dome Labels
Dome labels are constructed from several layers of specialized materials, each chosen for specific performance characteristics:
Polyurethane Resin
The dome itself is made from clear polyurethane (PU) resin. PU resin is preferred over epoxy because it resists UV yellowing, remains flexible, and maintains crystal clarity for years. It is also self-leveling, which creates the smooth dome shape.
Vinyl or Polyester Substrate
The printed base layer is typically made from durable vinyl or polyester film. These materials provide excellent ink adhesion, dimensional stability, and resistance to moisture and temperature changes.
Adhesive Backing
The back of each dome label is coated with a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) designed for permanent bonding. Industrial-grade 3M adhesives are commonly used, providing strong adhesion to metals, plastics, glass, and painted surfaces.
Release Liner
A silicone-coated paper or film liner protects the adhesive until the label is ready to be applied. This liner peels away cleanly, leaving the full adhesive surface ready for bonding.
Benefits of Dome Labels
Dome labels offer a unique combination of visual appeal and practical durability that flat stickers simply cannot match. Here are the key benefits:
Premium 3D Appearance
The raised dome creates a striking three-dimensional effect that elevates brand perception. The glossy, lens-like surface magnifies colors and adds visual depth that flat printing cannot achieve.
Exceptional Durability
The polyurethane dome acts as a protective shield over the printed design. It resists scratches, abrasion, chemicals, and impact, keeping your label looking new for 5-7+ years.
100% Waterproof
The sealed resin dome makes dome labels completely waterproof, suitable for marine, outdoor, and high-humidity environments without peeling, fading, or degrading.
UV Resistance
Polyurethane resin contains UV stabilizers that prevent yellowing and color fading from sun exposure. Your labels maintain their original clarity and vibrancy in direct sunlight.
Temperature Resistance
Dome labels perform reliably across a wide temperature range, typically from -40 degrees F to 180 degrees F. They resist thermal cycling without cracking or delaminating.
Tactile Quality
The smooth, raised dome invites touch and creates a memorable sensory experience. This tactile dimension adds perceived value and makes products feel more premium.
Common Applications for Dome Labels
Dome labels are used across virtually every industry where durable, premium branding is required. Here are some of the most common applications:
Automotive
Dashboard badges, wheel center caps, gear knobs, key fobs, aftermarket emblems, and steering wheel logos.
Electronics
Product branding on speakers, remote controls, appliances, power tools, and consumer electronics.
Marine
Boat identification plates, dashboard controls, equipment panels, and navigation labels.
Medical Devices
Equipment identification, control panels, device branding, and asset tracking labels.
Promotional Products
Custom keychains, branded magnets, lapel pins, event giveaways, and corporate gifts.
Industrial Equipment
Machine nameplates, control panel labels, safety warnings, and asset tags for heavy machinery.
Browse our full product range to see the variety of dome labels we offer for these applications and more.
How to Order Dome Labels
Ordering custom dome labels from DomePrints is straightforward. Our online configurator guides you through every step:
- 1.Choose your size — Select from standard sizes or enter custom dimensions for your dome labels.
- 2.Select a shape — Pick from circles, squares, rectangles, ovals, or request a custom die-cut shape.
- 3.Pick your surface finish — Choose between glossy clear resin or specialty finishes depending on your application.
- 4.Set your quantity — Enter the number of dome labels you need and see instant pricing with volume discounts.
- 5.Upload your design — Upload your artwork in JPG, PNG, PDF, AI, or EPS format at 300 DPI or higher.
- 6.Complete payment — Pay securely via credit card through our Stripe-powered checkout.