The Ultimate Guide to Colors in Packaging
This page curates all content related to colors when it comes to designing and printing packaging. Learn about different color systems, how to ensure you get the right color for designs, and much more.
Understanding Color Accuracy
Everything you need to know about achieving and measuring color accuracy in packaging.
Popular Articles
Screen Colors vs Print Colors
Learn about why colors look different printed and on screen.
Printing on Kraft Paper
Learn about how color appears when printed on kraft paper.
Process vs Spot Colors
Learn about how different print color systems work and if you should use CMYK and Pantone color for your next packaging.
Comparing Universal Color Systems
When to use RGB, CMYK & Pantone
Learn about when to use RGB, CMYK & Pantone for design and how to make use of it in Adobe Illustrator for packaging design here.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do colors look when printed on kraft paper?
Colors tend to look duller when printed on kraft paper. When printing on kraft, we strongly suggest black or white ink to ensure it comes out nicely. Here are some examples of how other colors look when printed on kraft paper.
What colors can I print in?
We support print in CMYK and Pantone colors. Please note that printing in Pantone comes at an additional cost. Learn more about what colors are supported for orders made online.
Why do colors look different on screen than when printed?
Colors that you see on screen are created with light, while colors that are printed are created through the mixture of ink. Other factors such as materials and printers can also affect the outcome of your print compared to what you see on screen. More details here.
When should I use CMYK colors (process color) and Pantone colors (spot colors)?
Process colors such as CMYK print is best used in situations that require a full spectrum of color. For flooded colors or accurate and specific colors, use spot colors such as Pantone. Learn more about process color vs pantone color.
What are the differences between RGB, CMYK and Pantone?
RGB colors are made by mixing light beams of 3 colors, with computer screens displaying colors using RGB color values. CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Key) is a process color made by mixing inks during the print process. Four primary inks are mixed to form your desired shade, and these form the CMYK color system. Pantone is a spot color and these are premixed colors that have higher consistency and accuracy when printing.
Will it cost more to print in Pantone?
Yes it will. Our standard quoted prices assumes print in CMYK. Do let us know which Pantone colors you'd like us to use and we can get back to you!