16 Packaging Essentials Every Packaging Pro Needs to Know (Volume 1)
16 Packaging Essentials Every Packaging Pro Needs to Know (Volume 1)
01｜CMYK Printing
a. Description
The printing of CMYK uses four base inks that consist of Cyan, Magenta, Yellow and Black inks that are printed in layers to give full-color images. It is the most common way of printing used in packaging. 
b. Best For
Photos-oriented graphics or rich and gradient-colored designs.
02｜Spot Color Printing
a. Description
Spot color is not a mixture of CMYK, but a mixture of ready-made inks, making it purer and more accurate in color. It is especially useful with standard brand colors. 
b. Features
- High color accuracy
- Strong saturation
- No dot patterns
- Ideally adapted to large solid-color areas
c. CMYK vs. Spot Color
| Item | CMYK Printing | Spot Color Printing |
|---|---|---|
| Color Stability | Medium | High |
| Dot Pattern | ✔ Yes | ✘ No |
| Gradient Capability | Yes | Not ideal |
| Cost | Lower | Slightly higher |
| Best Use | Photos, gradients | Massive solid blocks, brand colors |
03｜Silk Screen Printing
a. Description
A mesh screen overlaid with ink allows the ink to be deposited onto the surface of the material in a thick and physical layer. 
b. Features
- Strong coverage
- Highly saturated colors
- Works on paper bags, fabric bags, and specialty materials
04｜Embossing / Debossing
a. Description
Embossing: Presses up the pattern on the surface.
Debossing: Stamps the pattern into the surface. 
b. Features
- Enhanced tactile appeal
- Strong visual hierarchy
- Great for logos and key text elements
05｜Texture Embossing
a. Description
Texture embossing uses a textured mold to create surfaces resembling leather grain, fabric grain, or geometric textures. 
b. Features
- Realistic textures
- Premium touch and feel
- Reduces visible prints and scratches
06｜Spot UV
a. Description
A glossy UV finish is applied only to specific areas, creating shine and depth. 
b. Features
- Highlights key elements
- Strong contrast with non-UV regions
- Popular for high-end packaging
07｜Reverse UV
a. Description
A blend of glossy UV and matte coating creates a strong visual contrast. 
b. Features
- Clear gloss–matte contrast
- High durability
- Commonly used in cosmetics and luxury gift packaging
08｜Reverse Matte
a. Description
Different UV finishes generate a matte surface, allowing both glossy and matte finishes to appear together. 
b. Features
- Refined matte tactile feel
- Increases visual depth and layering
- Premium, sophisticated finish
Summary: Better Packaging Starts with the Right Knowledge
These eight essentials play key roles in food service packaging, retail packaging, and branding applications. Understanding how each process works helps improve packaging quality and elevates brand professionalism.
Browse Volume 2: 16 Packaging Essentials Every Packaging Pro Needs to Know (Volume 2)
