Printing Guide
Everything you need to know to print professional-quality labels and sleeves at home.
The Basics
This site creates two types of designs: labels (stickers that go on tapes and discs) and covers (sleeves, J-cards, and inserts that get folded). Since label paper typically comes with multiple labels per sheet, I recommend the "copy and paste" method — it lets you arrange multiple labels on one page before printing. Covers are single full-page prints, so a simple PDF download works best.
Labels
VHS face/spine labels, cassette labels, CD disc labels
- Click Copy to copy the label to your clipboard
- Click Paste & Print to open a print-ready page
- Press Ctrl/Cmd + V to paste into the Photopea template
- Move your label to the guides
- When you're ready to print, Hide any guide layers then print at 100% scale
Covers
Sleeves, J-cards, CD inserts, etc.
- Click Download, select your paper size, and choose PDF
- Print at 100% scale (actual size) — do not "fit to page"
- Cut along the edges, fold along the guides
Paper Selection
Choosing the right paper is crucial for professional-looking results. Paper weight is measured in GSM (grams per square meter) — higher numbers mean thicker, sturdier paper. For labels, use sticker paper. For sleeves and covers that need to be folded, aim for 200-250 GSM cardstock. Lighter paper (160 GSM) folds more easily but feels flimsier, while heavier paper (250+ GSM) is more durable but can crack when folded.
Print Dimensions
All exports are rendered at 600 DPI for high-quality printing.
| Design | Pixels | Inches | Millimeters | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| VHS Face Label | 1840 × 1110 | 3.07" × 1.85" | 78 × 47 mm | — |
| VHS Face Label (with bleed) | 1960 × 1230 | 3.27" × 2.05" | 83 × 52 mm | +60px bleed |
| VHS Spine Label | 3480 × 400 | 5.80" × 0.67" | 147 × 17 mm | — |
| VHS Spine Label (with bleed) | 3600 × 520 | 6.00" × 0.87" | 152 × 22 mm | +60px bleed |
| VHS Slipcover | 6440 × 5560 | 10.73" × 9.27" | 273 × 235 mm | — |
| VHS Polycase | 6153 × 4650 | 10.26" × 7.75" | 260 × 197 mm | — |
| VHS Clamshell | 6969 × 5025 | 11.62" × 8.38" | 295 × 213 mm | — |
| Double VHS | 7724 × 6191 | 12.87" × 10.32" | 327 × 262 mm | — |
| Betamax Sleeve | 6016 × 4573 | 10.03" × 7.62" | 255 × 194 mm | — |
| Blockbuster VHS | 6153 × 4649 | 10.26" × 7.75" | 260 × 197 mm | — |
| Blockbuster DVD | 6449 × 4347 | 10.75" × 7.25" | 273 × 184 mm | — |
| Blockbuster BitBox (N64/SNES) | 7332 × 4360 | 12.22" × 7.27" | 310 × 185 mm | — |
| UHD Blu-ray Sleeve | 6340 × 3512 | 10.57" × 5.85" | 268 × 149 mm | — |
| UHD Blu-ray Slipcover | 7512 × 4016 | 12.52" × 6.69" | 318 × 170 mm | — |
| Cassette Label (per side) | 2160 × 1080 | 3.60" × 1.80" | 91 × 46 mm | — |
| J-Card (standard) | 4766 × 2400 | 7.94" × 4.00" | 202 × 102 mm | — |
| CD Label (disc) | 2837 × 2837 | 4.73" × 4.73" | 120 × 120 mm | — |
| CD Tray Liner | 3544 × 2777 | 5.91" × 4.63" | 150 × 118 mm | — |
| CD Insert/Booklet | 5700 × 2850 | 9.50" × 4.75" | 241 × 121 mm | — |
Paper Recommendations
VHS Labels (Face & Spine)
- • Sticker paper (matte or glossy)
- • Full-sheet label paper works great
- • Avery 8165 or similar
Sleeves & Covers
- • Cardstock (matte or satin finish)
- • Matte cardstock for authentic vintage look
- • Heavier paper holds up better to folding
CD Labels
- • [CD label sticker sheets](https://www.onlinelabels.com/products/ol1200)
- • Use a CD label applicator for best results
- • Inkjet-printable CDs also work
J-Cards & Inserts
- • Matte cardstock works best for folding
- • Lighter paper (160 gsm) for easier folds
- • Satin finish for a polished look
Video Guides
Printing VHS Labels
Print and apply VHS face and spine labels with bleed for edge-to-edge color.
Making VHS Slipcovers
A deep dive into paper types, weights, and finishes for different projects.
Printing & Cutting Slipcovers
Step-by-step guide for printing and cutting VHS slipcovers.
Making Cassette J-Cards
Create and fold custom J-cards for your cassette tapes.
Quick Guides
Printer Settings
Critical Settings
- ✓Scale: 100% or "Actual Size" — never use "Fit to Page"
- ✓Quality: Best/High use your printer's highest quality setting
- ✓Paper Type: Match to your actual paper (glossy, matte, etc.)
- ✓Color Mode: Color (not grayscale)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- • "Fit to Page" or "Shrink to Fit" will make your print too small
- • Wrong paper type setting = smeared or dull colors
- • Draft mode = visible lines and poor color
Paper Size Guide
| Paper Size | Dimensions | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| US Letter | 8.5" × 11" (216 × 279 mm) | VHS labels, J-cards, CD inserts |
| US Legal | 8.5" × 14" (216 × 356 mm) | VHS sleeves, polycases |
| A4 | 8.27" × 11.69" (210 × 297 mm) | VHS labels, J-cards, CD inserts |
| A3 | 11.69" × 16.54" (297 × 420 mm) | All sleeves and large covers |
| Tabloid (11×17) | 11" × 17" (279 × 432 mm) | All sleeves and large covers |
Most VHS sleeves and covers require Legal, A3, or Tabloid paper. If your printer only supports Letter/A4, consider using a print shop for larger designs.
Cutting & Assembly
Tools You'll Need
- • Sharp scissors or craft knife (X-Acto)
- • Metal ruler for straight cuts
- • Cutting mat to protect your surface
- • Bone folder for crisp folds (or a credit card)
Cutting Tips
- • Let ink dry completely before cutting (5-10 minutes)
- • Cut slightly inside the design edge for cleaner results
- • Use multiple light passes with a craft knife vs. one heavy cut
- • Round corners slightly to prevent peeling (for labels)
Folding Tips
- • Score fold lines lightly with a bone folder first
- • Fold with the printed side facing out
- • For J-cards: fold the flaps inward, spine panel last
- • Use a ruler edge to get sharp, straight folds
Professional Print Services
Don't have a printer or need larger formats? These services can print your designs:
- • FedEx Office / Kinko's — Upload online, pick up in store
- • Staples — Good for cardstock and photo paper
- • CVS/Walgreens Photo — Quick turnaround for photo paper
- • Local print shops — Often best quality and can advise on paper
Tip: Download as PDF and ask for "actual size" or "100% scale" printing on cardstock.