A row of painted models looks good. A row of painted models with a neat name card underneath looks like a collection with a story. Labels help guests understand what they're looking at, remind you when each model was finished and make themed displays easy to follow.
The short answer: keep labels small (about 40 × 15 mm), give each squad or character a name plus one line of detail such as the date finished, print them on matt card in a single font and place them on the front edge of the tier or shelf rather than on the bases themselves.
Label options compared
| Label type | Look | Effort | Reusable? | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Printed card tent | Clean, gallery-style | Low | Yes | Rotating displays |
| Label-maker tape | Neat, uniform | Very low | Partly | Large collections |
| Hand-lettered card | Personal, characterful | Medium | Yes | Centrepieces and gifts |
| QR code card | Minimal | Medium | Yes | Linking to photos or painting notes |
What should I write on a display label?
The unit or character name, then one useful detail: the date it was finished, the army it belongs to or a key paint used. More than two lines starts to compete with the model. If you're stuck for names, try our free name generators.
How big should labels be?
Around 40 × 15 mm suits 28–32 mm models; go up to 60 × 20 mm for large monsters and vehicles. The label should be readable from a step away but low enough that it never blocks the view of the model.
Where should labels go on a tiered stand?
On the front edge of each tier, below the models they describe, or on a single card at the foot of the stand listing the squad. Avoid sticking labels to the bases, as adhesives can lift flock and leave residue. On a scenic plinth such as the WarSplay Pro, a small card at the front works best.
What's the best material for labels?
Matt card or matt photo paper. Gloss labels catch light and reflect into photos, which pulls attention from the models. Cream or black card usually looks smarter than bright white next to painted miniatures.
Can labels help track my painting progress?
Yes. Writing the finish date on each label turns the display into a timeline, and it's surprisingly motivating to see how your painting has improved. Some collectors add a small dot in a different colour for models still in progress; see how to display an unfinished army.
Do labels work with a rotating display?
They do, as long as they're freestanding. Tent-fold cards move with the models when you swap them out and live in the storage case in between. Our guide to rotating your display has theme ideas worth labelling.
Will labels look good in photos?
Small, matt labels in a neutral colour look tidy in collection shots. For close-up portraits of a single model, move the label out of frame. Our guide to photographing painted miniatures covers framing and light.
Which stand is easiest to label?
A stand with clear, evenly spaced tiers, because each row gives you a natural place for a label. WarSplay stands use a consistent tier height, and our stands are compatible with Warhammer 40,000® miniatures and most other games on standard bases. Check the size guide for tier dimensions.
WarSplay Pro – from £24.95
40 mm plinths with a UV-printed scenic backdrop · optional magnet holes in each plinth · pre-assembled · dispatched within 2 business days
Related reading
- How to Rotate and Refresh Your Miniature Display
- How to Expand a Miniature Display as Your Collection Grows
- How to Organise a Miniature Collection by Army, Faction and Painting Stage
- Stuck for a Name? Generate One for Your Squad, Ship or World
- From Foam Tray to Showcase: Planning a Display for Your Whole Painted Army
New: How to Arrange Miniatures on a Display Stand (Layouts That Look Good)
Warhammer 40,000® is a trademark of Games Workshop Group PLC. WarSplay® and Blubbercove Ltd are not affiliated with, authorised by, endorsed by, or licensed by Games Workshop Group PLC. The name is used solely to indicate product compatibility.