Print on Avery 5160 Without Avery Software

Last updated: April 12, 2026

Avery 5160 is the most popular label sheet in the world — 30 labels per sheet, each measuring 1" x 2-5/8". It's the go-to for return address labels, mailing labels, and file folder labels. But you don't need Avery's software to print on them. printshi has a built-in Avery 5160 template that's free, requires no account, and has better design tools.

Avery's own design tool (Avery Design & Print) works, but it requires creating an account, loads slowly, and pushes you toward purchasing Avery-brand sheets. If you already have label sheets — whether Avery or a compatible store brand — you just need a tool that knows the exact layout. That's what printshi provides: precise template dimensions that match the 5160 spec, with a fast editor that runs entirely in your browser.

What Is the Avery 5160 Layout?

The Avery 5160 is a US Letter-size sheet (8.5" x 11") with 30 labels arranged in a grid of 3 columns and 10 rows. Each individual label measures 1" tall by 2-5/8" wide (25.4mm x 66.7mm). The layout uses a 1/2" top margin, 3/16" side margins, and 1/8" horizontal gaps between columns.

This layout has been the industry standard for decades. Virtually every office supply brand — Staples, Office Depot, Amazon Basics — makes a sheet with identical dimensions. The Avery 5160 number has become a de facto standard, like "Kleenex" for tissues. Any sheet labeled "compatible with Avery 5160" will have the same measurements and work with the same templates.

The vertical spacing is built into the label height — there's no gap between rows. The labels are spaced edge-to-edge vertically, and the 1/8" gap between columns ensures clean peeling without tearing adjacent labels.

Avery 5160 Specifications

How to Print Avery 5160 Labels with printshi

Printing on Avery 5160 sheets with printshi takes about two minutes from start to finish. Here's the step-by-step process:

1. Open the printshi editor. No account or download needed — it runs directly in your browser.
2. Select the Avery 5160 template. From the sheet size dropdown, choose "Avery 5160 (1" x 2-5/8", 30 per sheet)." The editor automatically configures the grid, margins, and label dimensions.
3. Add your text. Click on a label and start typing. For a return address label, enter your name, street address, city, state, and ZIP code. The text auto-fits within the label boundaries.
4. Customize the font and size. Choose from 25+ built-in fonts. Adjust the font size — 10pt to 12pt works well for address labels. You can also adjust alignment, line spacing, and text color.
5. Duplicate across the sheet. Once your first label looks right, duplicate it to fill all 30 positions on the sheet. One click fills the entire sheet with identical labels. If you're printing different addresses, use CSV import instead.
6. Print at 100% scale. Click Print, and in your browser's print dialog, make sure scaling is set to 100% (actual size). Do not select "Fit to page" or "Shrink to fit" — this will shift all labels off-center. Set margins to "None" or "Minimum." Print a test page on plain paper first, then hold it up against your label sheet to verify alignment.

Common Uses for Avery 5160

The Avery 5160 is one of the most versatile label sizes available. Its compact 1" x 2-5/8" footprint is large enough for three lines of text but small enough to fit on envelopes, folders, and small packages without looking oversized.

• Return address labels — The most popular use. Print your name and address on a sheet of 30 and peel them off as you send mail. Much faster than handwriting and far more legible.
• Mailing labels — For sending letters, invitations, or holiday cards. Import a CSV of addresses and print each recipient on a separate label. One sheet handles 30 recipients.
• File folder labels — Label file folders, binders, and storage boxes. The 1" height fits standard file folder tabs perfectly.
• Small product labels — For handmade goods, craft supplies, or samples. Include a product name, your business name, and a website or social handle.
• Price tags — Print prices for retail items, garage sales, or craft fairs. The small size works well for individual items without obscuring the product.
• Gift tags — Print "To/From" labels for holiday gifts, party favors, or wedding favors. Add a decorative font for a personal touch.

Generic Alternatives to Avery 5160

You don't need to buy Avery-brand sheets to use the 5160 template. The Avery 5160 layout is an open standard — any manufacturer can produce sheets with the same dimensions, and many do. Store-brand alternatives are typically 40-60% cheaper than Avery while being dimensionally identical.

When shopping for generic alternatives, look for packaging that says "compatible with Avery 5160" or "same size as Avery 5160." Reputable store brands include:

• Amazon Basics address labels — Available in packs of 750 (25 sheets) or 3,000 (100 sheets). Same 1" x 2-5/8" size. Works with inkjet and laser printers.
• Staples brand labels — Often on sale and frequently cheaper than Avery. Identical dimensions.
• Office Depot/OfficeMax labels — Their house brand labels list Avery 5160 compatibility right on the box.
• MFLABEL and HOUSELABELS — Popular on Amazon. Sold in bulk at significant discounts. Read reviews to verify print quality for your specific printer.

The key spec to verify is the label size (1" x 2-5/8") and the count per sheet (30). If both match, the template will align correctly regardless of the brand. Always print a test page on plain paper before committing a full sheet of labels — even brand-name sheets can vary slightly between production runs.