The product becomes part of the design.
TRANSPARENT MATERIALS
Transparent labels create a ‘no-label look’. The label visually recedes into the background, making the design appear as though it has been printed directly onto the bottle or packaging.
TYPICAL APPLICATIONS
- spirits such as gin and vodka
- cosmetics
- contemporary wine and beverage concepts
- distinctive food products
- transparent or coloured packaging
WHAT WORKS WELL
Transparent front labels can be combined with back labels printed on the reverse side. This creates see-through effects in which images or text can be viewed through the bottle and its contents.
The deliberate combination of transparent and opaque areas also offers a wide range of design possibilities.
TAKE NOTE
Printing inks are not fully opaque when applied to transparent materials. As a result, the colour of the bottle and its contents affects the printed result. If colours are to appear strong and vibrant, they must be selectively underprinted with opaque white. Without a white underprint, the transparent effect is retained and can be used as a design element.
TRANSPARENCY REQUIRES THE RIGHT INTERACTION
Transparent labels would only look modern and premium if the interaction of the material, bottle, contents, printing inks and white underprint has been coordinated.
IN PRACTICE
The no-label look offers a flexible alternative to printing directly on bottles. This is particularly true for changing designs, different product varieties or smaller production runs, as using transparent labels can be more economical and versatile.
Transparent polypropylene or polyethylene films are resistant to water. However, the adhesives, printing inks and varnishes must also be selected to suit the moisture exposure and intended application to ensure the overall performance of the label.
Transparent materials are also available with removable adhesive technologies.