I want to make some labels for rods to note rod details, CCS values, owners name, etc. I searched and found some discussions on the forum, but they are older. Saw some references to label makers like the P-touch, the K-sun, and inkjet printing. What are people using and how satisfied are they with the results? I was hoping to not sink hundreds of dollars into this venture. I especially like the decals that have tape on both sides so you can stick to the blank and then remove the top layer to get a clean application. Can these be made at a reasonable cost at home?

Decal Connection, a supplier on the left can do what you want. They are the "go to" source for a great many of us! Lots of options, take a look at their web site with the link on the left.

Debbie is wonderful to work with if you have questions or problems!

Ed,
I think that you have the best interest of the affected posts at heart.

But in reality, it make 0 difference what a label says on the rod.

The only thing that they really care about is whether they can catch a fish on the rod or not.

I as a rod builder would be interested for such a label.

But, I as a fisher person has 0 interest in such a label.

Of course, your choice.

Take care

Specs on the rod get to be important when one has a large number of rods. I put CCS values on every rod so that it's easy to compare the power and action.

If trying this with inkjet make sure to use original equipment ink. Even that is not as UV stable as it should be, but with refilled ink you just don't know what you'r going to get.

Decal connection is a great source and their labels are UV stable, but for labels with specific specs, the setup makes it impractical. One solution is to have your custom rod logo done by Decal Connection and write the specs on with india ink. Doc Martens (spelling?), if left on the rod overnight, will take a coat of CP without running, then the epoxy won't affect it.

Decal Connection can make just about any label you wish. I have them make my labels with my logo and all the rod specs I wish to put on the rod.

I LOVE that rod, Ima get another one just like it! Wait, there's no information anywhere on it! Dang.

Took me a while, Jim, but I got it. Right on.

Dr. Hanneman suggested at least listing the DBI (Defined Bending Index) which is a combination of the AA and ERN expressed simply as AA/ERN. There is no reason you couldn't add additional information on the label as well, but one thing I'd recommend is a serial number be inscribed on the rod which you then record in your order book that details every component used on the rod and how it was built. It means a couple things - your customer has to come back to you for the specifics and you will indeed have all that information on hand in your order record book for posterity when or if it may be needed.

..............

I do uniquely number them. I keep a spreadsheet with all the details as you suggest. I take pictures of each part of the rod and keep it all in an electronic folder for my records. Sounds like the best thing to do is add the mfg's label, add the unique number and leave it at that.

Inkjet printing on tracing paper which is then wet with thin epoxy, applied, dried before epoxy topcoat looks good enough for many anglers.