Yes, white is considered a color but whether we print white ink on your custom labels will depend on the label material. For example, if we print your labels on white semi-gloss paper, then there isn’t a reason for us to print white ink on top of white paper because there’s already white present, saving us ink. However, not all label materials are white which can make printing accurate colors a little more tricky. Clear labels, metallic, and brown kraft label materials typically require “white underprinting” before other colors are printed. White underprinting is a technique in which white ink is applied underneath some or all areas of your label artwork, creating opacity in key areas which help make your colors more vibrant and graphics/text sharper.
Since metallic and brown kraft aren’t white, the label material’s color underneath the inks can make colors appear different than expected – that’s why white underprinting is key for achieving an accurate color match. Clear labels also need white underprinting but for a different reason. Without white underprinting, the label’s colors will appear transparent which can minimize its visual impact. Don’t worry, we’ll know whether white underprinting is required or not when we review your label artwork file and order. Check out our video below to learn more about white underprinting or get started on your custom labels now with our instant online quote!