Label pitch is the distance from one label to the next
Horizontal pitch is the distance from the left edge of one label to the left edge of the next label across. Vertical pitch is the distance from the top edge of one label to the top edge of the next label down. Opposite edges measure the same pitch on a regular grid. The gap is what remains after subtracting the label’s own width or height from that pitch.
| Measurement | How to obtain it | Sample |
|---|---|---|
| Left margin | Sheet edge to first label’s left edge | 8 mm |
| Top margin | Sheet edge to first label’s top edge | 10 mm |
| Horizontal pitch | (144 − 8) ÷ (3 − 1) | 68 mm |
| Vertical pitch | (248 − 10) ÷ (8 − 1) | 34 mm |
| Horizontal gap | 68 − 64 mm label width | 4 mm |
| Vertical gap | 34 − 31 mm label height | 3 mm |
Worked example using first and last edges
Take a blank sheet and set it flat in the orientation you intend to feed it. Use the same top and left sheet edges for every measurement. The left edges of the first and third columns are 8 mm and 144 mm. Their separation is 136 mm and they are two intervals apart. Dividing yields a 68 mm pitch. Measure the top edge of the first and eighth rows at 10 and 248 mm. There are seven intervals, so the vertical pitch is 34 mm.
Measuring across several columns or rows reduces the effect of a small ruler-reading error. For irregular or staggered labels, measure each row independently or obtain the stock template. The calculator assumes consistent pitch and at least two rows and columns. A one-column sheet still has a left margin and label width, though there is no horizontal pitch to calculate.
Diagnose offset and drift with a plain-paper proof
Print the template at actual size on plain paper of the matching size. Put the test over the label sheet and align the sheet edges against a light source. Compare the upper-left and lower-right labels. When the error has roughly the same size and direction at both corners, check margins, printer offset, and paper orientation. When the first label is close and the errors increase across or down the sheet, check scale and pitch.
For example, a vertical pitch entered as 33.6 mm on stock with 34 mm pitch drifts 0.4 mm each interval. By row eight, the last printed label could be 2.8 mm above its target even when row one aligns. Change one setting at a time and retain the best proof beside your stock notes. A skew that changes alignment diagonally may come from media feed rather than the grid.
Common setup mistakes
Confirm the stock number and sheet orientation before using any brand template. A similar label width can hide different gaps, margins, or row counts. A generic label generator may use equal margins and equal gaps, while a commercial sheet can have separate horizontal and vertical measurements. Use the manufacturer template when the layout requires individual settings. Avery explains where to find template measurements in its label template help.
Frequently asked questions
Do I divide by the number of labels?
Divide by the intervals between positions. From the first through the eighth row there are seven intervals.
How do I measure round labels?
Measure equivalent points, such as the leftmost edge of each circle across a row. Use the circle’s diameter for the width or height.
Can I mix inches and millimeters?
Choose one unit for all measurements. Use the unit switch to convert the current numbers.
Does the tool adjust my printer?
It returns the grid measurements. Enter the appropriate values in your layout software and proof at actual size.