Label Tape Guide

How to Read COLORTY TZe Label Tape Model Numbers

A complete guide to understanding background colour, width, text colour, and finish

Introduction

If you've ever stared at a label tape cartridge like TZe‑231 and wondered what those numbers actually mean, you're not alone. It looks like a random code – but it's actually a simple system that tells you the background colour, tape width, and text colour at a glance.

At COLORTY, we make high‑quality Brother P‑touch compatible label tapes, and we want you to choose the right tape for your project without guesswork. This guide explains our naming rules for the two main series we offer: Standard Laminated Tapes and MQ Matte / Pastel Tapes.

Standard Laminated Tapes

These are our everyday Brother P‑touch TZe replacement tapes. They feature a durable laminated finish – waterproof, oil‑resistant, and scratch‑resistant – perfect for home, office, or industrial use.

Model Structure

TZe – [Background Colour] [Width] [Text Colour]

That's three digits after TZe.

Colour & Width Codes

Background Colour (first digit)

1 = Clear
2 = White
3 = Black
4 = Red
5 = Blue
6 = Yellow
7 = Green

Width (second digit)

2 = 9mm
3 = 12mm
4 = 18mm
5 = 24mm

Text Colour (third digit)

1 = Black
2 = Red
3 = Blue
5 = White

Real Examples

Model Breakdown What You Get
TZe‑231 2 (White) + 3 (12mm) + 1 (Black) White tape, 12mm, black text
TZe‑131 1 (Clear) + 3 (12mm) + 1 (Black) Clear tape, 12mm, black text
TZe‑631 6 (Yellow) + 3 (12mm) + 1 (Black) Yellow tape, 12mm, black text
TZe‑531 5 (Blue) + 3 (12mm) + 1 (Black) Blue tape, 12mm, black text
TZe‑431 4 (Red) + 3 (12mm) + 1 (Black) Red tape, 12mm, black text
TZe‑335 3 (Black) + 3 (12mm) + 5 (White) Black tape, 12mm, white text

MQ Matte / Pastel Tapes

For those who prefer a matte, elegant look without the shiny gloss, our MQ series offers a soft, non‑reflective surface. These tapes are perfect for labelling items under bright lights, or for adding a stylish touch to planners, gifts, and home organisation.

Model Structure

TZe – MQ – [Colour Code] – [Width] [Text Colour]

  • MQ stands for Matte / Pastel.
  • The colour code uses two letters (or occasionally a number) to indicate the specific pastel shade.
  • The width and text colour follow the same digit codes as the standard range.

MQ Colour Codes

PK = Pastel Pink
F = Pastel Purple
Y = Lemon Yellow
5 = Pastel Blue
G = Green (soft)
P = Berry Pink
L = Gray
8 = Satin Gold

Real Examples

Model Breakdown What You Get
TZe‑MQPK31 MQ + PK + 3 (12mm) + 1 (Black) Matte pastel pink, 12mm, black text
TZe‑MQF31 MQ + F + 3 (12mm) + 1 (Black) Matte lavender, 12mm, black text
TZe‑MQY31 MQ + Y + 3 (12mm) + 1 (Black) Matte lemon yellow, 12mm, black text
TZe‑MQ531 MQ + 5 + 3 (12mm) + 1 (Black) Matte pastel blue, 12mm, black text
TZe‑MQP35 MQ + P + 3 (12mm) + 5 (White) Matte berry pink, 12mm, white text
TZe‑MQG35 MQ + G + 3 (12mm) + 5 (White) Matte green, 12mm, white text
TZe‑MQ835 MQ + 8 (Satin Gold) + 3 (12mm) + 5 (White) Matte satin gold, 12mm, white text

Quick Comparison Table

Series Finish Model Example Meaning
Standard Glossy / Laminated TZe‑231 White, 12mm, black text
Standard Glossy / Laminated TZe‑631 Yellow, 12mm, black text
MQ Matte Matte / Pastel TZe‑MQPK31 Pastel pink, 12mm, black text
MQ Matte Matte / Pastel TZe‑MQP35 Berry pink, 12mm, white text

Frequently Asked Questions

Are COLORTY TZe tapes compatible with Brother P‑touch label makers?

Yes. All our TZe‑series cartridges are designed as direct replacements for Brother TZe tapes and work with most Brother P‑touch label printers that use TZe cartridges (including popular models like PT‑D210, PT‑D410, PT‑P750W, and many more).

What's the difference between standard and MQ tapes?

Standard tapes have a glossy, protective laminate that is very durable and water‑resistant. MQ tapes have a matte, non‑glare surface with soft pastel colours – they look more elegant and are easier to read under bright lights.

Where can I buy COLORTY label tapes?

You can find our full range on the COLORTY official website or through our authorized retailers.

Final Thoughts

Next time you see a model like TZe‑231 or TZe‑MQPK31, you'll instantly know what it means – no more guessing. At COLORTY, we believe that choosing Brother P‑touch compatible label tape should be simple and straightforward.

Whether you need classic white labels for your office files, bright colours for colour‑coding, or stylish matte pastels for your journal – our naming system puts all the information right in your hands.

Happy labelling!

Have a specific use case? Browse our complete TZe Label Tape Size & Colour Guide or contact us – we're here to help.

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