Types of Beer Labels and Their Best Practices

When you create a label for a beer can or bottle, you’ll have the most success if you use the following best practices:

• Use as few colors as possible: While digital and pressure-sensitive labels have almost unlimited color options, more colors don’t necessarily mean better designs. Lots of colors make your label design more difficult to look at and read. Stick to two to four colors to keep your label clear and readable.
• When in doubt, go minimalist: Some labels take advantage of textured patterns or intricate artwork. But if you’re unsure if those suit your brand, keep things simple. Take advantage of simple shapes and minimalist designs to communicate your brand message to customers.
• Take advantage of nostalgia: People often consume beer to relax or feel comfort. Nostalgia dovetails nicely with those desires, so it’s a great idea to use a nostalgic or vintage design for your craft beer. Shades of brown and muted or pastel colors often evoke nostalgia for consumers, along with signs of aging on the label.

These best practices help you design straightforward labels that jump off the shelf and reach your customer base.