How to tell ribbon stock from direct thermal
Do this in the free app: Open https://app.mylabelmaker.com after you know the stock type. No signup. Print one test.
Blank labels after a new Amazon roll are usually the wrong media. Scratch the face with a fingernail. If it darkens, it is direct thermal. If not, it needs a ribbon (thermal transfer). Then open the free label maker and print one test.
Good to know: We do not detect your ribbon from the browser. The scratch test is on the desk.
How to tell ribbon stock from direct thermal
- Scratch a spare label with a fingernail. Dark mark means direct thermal. No mark means ribbon.
- Match the printer: many ZD "d" and LP units are direct thermal. TLP and "t" units need ribbon.
- Open https://app.mylabelmaker.com. No signup.
- Set the size to the roll and print one test. Wrong media still prints blank.
Checklist
- Scratch test on a spare label
- LP / many ZD “d” models = direct thermal
- TLP / “t” models = ribbon
- Editor still designs the same, the printer + stock must match
Related blanks
See blank labels and print too light if the media is correct but the image is still missing.
Print to Zebra, or save a file
Print from the browser with Browser Print at the printer's DPI. If you are not on that printer today, download PNG, JPEG, SVG, PDF, or ZPL. JSON keeps the editable master.
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Pick a size, add text or a barcode, print or export. No account.
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