Choose packaging colours and surface finishes
Updated: Oct 8
Once the box structure is chosen, review the paper surface, colour reference and finish together. A screen preview cannot confirm how the printed material will look after lamination, foil or embossing. This guide focuses on choosing the visual and tactile finish, and on recording the sample and reference used for approval.
Set a colour and finish approval reference
Identify the artwork revision, the physical colour reference or named standard, the paper surface and the proposed finishing sequence. Agree which sample will be reviewed and how any difference from production will be recorded.
Agree the following appearance and project requirements before reviewing a printed sample:
Brand reference: Identify the logo version and the colour reference to use; a screen image alone does not establish the appearance of finished printed material.
Construction interface: Check how folds, cut edges and handling of the chosen structure affect the visible printed and finished areas.
Sustainability: Define the environmental attribute you need and the market where the package will be used. Request evidence for that attribute in the specified finished construction.
Budget: Identify which visual effects are required and which can be compared as alternatives in the quotation.
Review material, print and finish together
Keep the paper surface in the colour review
Identify the proposed board or paper, its printed surface and any texture or coating. The formats below are starting points; compare appearance on the specified material and construction:
Corrugated Cardboard: Ideal for shipping boxes due to its strength and cushioning properties.
Rigid Boxes: Premium option for luxury products, offering sturdiness and a high-end feel.
Folding Cartons: Versatile and cost-effective, suitable for retail packaging.
Paper Bags: Often used for retail and gift packaging. Specify the paper, handles and finish, then verify any environmental claim for the complete bag.
Ask which material and surface the sample represents, and record any difference from the proposed order. Compare cost and timing using the supplier’s project-specific response rather than assuming them from a format name.
Compare printing and surface-finishing options
Discuss the printing process and the effects below together. Record the artwork coverage, the material surface and the sequence in which finishes will be applied:
Printing Techniques: Offset, digital, and flexographic printing each offer different benefits in terms of color fidelity, cost, and turnaround time.
Finishing Options: Matte, gloss, soft-touch lamination, embossing, and foil stamping can add tactile and visual appeal.
Colour reference: Agree the physical reference or identified standard, viewing conditions and any acceptance tolerance with the supplier for this construction.
Check the appearance after the proposed finishes have been applied. Keep the approved reference and record any difference between a print proof, a finished sample and the intended production construction.
Check artwork around folds, edges and opening features
Review the artwork on the chosen structure in both the flat and assembled state. Check whether important colour areas, text or effects cross the following features:
Box Style: Options range from tuck-end folding cartons to magnetic closure rigid boxes.
Ease of Assembly: Pre-glued or self-locking designs can reduce labor costs.
Product Accessibility: Packaging should allow customers to access the product easily without damaging the box.
Stackability and Storage: Efficient design can optimize warehouse space and shipping logistics.
Review any finish that crosses a fold, edge, insert or closure with the supplier, and record what the sample should show. Use the fit and assembly guide for the product-loading checks.
Agree what the printed sample and inspection should confirm
Ask the supplier which sample, reference and inspection basis will be used for colour and surface appearance. Keep the following order and production questions in the written project response:
Production Capacity: Can the supplier handle your order volume and scale as your business grows?
Quality Assurance Processes: Look for certifications and documented quality control procedures.
Sample Approval: Request prototypes or samples before full production to verify design and print quality.
Lead Times: Confirm realistic production and shipping timelines to align with your product launch schedule.
Keep the identified artwork revision and approval reference with the inspection record. State which differences need further review before production is released.
Share the same artwork and reference across locations
When more than one location reviews or receives the packaging, identify who holds the artwork and approved sample. Ask which of the following support and delivery arrangements apply to the project:
Multilingual Communication: Clear and prompt communication in your preferred language.
Design Assistance: Access to packaging experts who can advise on materials, printing, and structural design.
Logistics Coordination: Support with shipping, customs clearance, and delivery tracking.
After-Sales Service: Responsive customer service for any issues post-delivery.
Record how the approved reference and any review comments will reach the supplier and receiving team, so everyone uses the same artwork and finish specification.
Questions before approving colour and finish
Put these answers beside the sample identifier and artwork revision:
Which physical colour reference or identified standard will be used, and under what viewing conditions?
Which paper surface and printing process does the sample represent?
Will colour be judged before or after lamination, foil, embossing or other specified finishing?
Which logo, fine text, fold or edge needs particular review on the assembled sample?
What acceptance tolerance, approved reference and remaining difference will be recorded for this project?
For quantities, destination and other quotation details, use the custom packaging boxes buyers guide. Include the selected colour reference, paper and finish in the project brief.
About the author: Denny (Shaolin Mo) has 10 years of experience in the packaging industry.
Comments