How to Make Beer Labels: A Complete Guide

TTB requirements and design tips for craft brewers and breweries

Whether you’re a small-batch brewer or run a full-scale brewery, your beer label has to do two things: meet TTB labeling requirements and stand out on the shelf. Navigating those federal rules can feel complicated, but we’ve simplified everything you need to know, from beer label requirements to design tips that help your brand shine.

Once you’re ready to create, Avery makes it easy to order printable beer labels or custom printed beer labels online with fast shipping and low minimums. You can also browse beer label templates to easily customize your own labels or just ot get inspired.

What is a malt beverage?

The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) defines a malt beverage as any product brewed with malted barley and hops. This covers beer, ale, lager, and flavored malt beverages. Keep in mind, not every labeling scenario is covered here, and local laws can differ. Always double-check TTB beer label rules your state and federal regulations before printing or distributing your beer labels.

TTB-required information for beer labels

1. Brand name

List your brewery’s name or the brand your beer is sold under. Avoid any language that could mislead consumers about the beer’s age, origin, or type.

2. Country of origin

Imported beers must clearly display the country of origin, like “Product of Belgium” or “Product of Canada.”

3. Draft or draught

If you use “draft” or “draught,” it usually means the beer isn’t pasteurized. You can still use “draft brewed” for pasteurized beer—just make that clear on your label.

4. Class designation

Identify your product type (e.g., “beer,” “ale,” “lager”). If it includes special ingredients such as fruit, honey, or spices, include a statement like “Ale brewed with honey.”

5. Alcohol content

This is optional for most beers, but required if the beverage contains added alcohol. Always check your state’s labeling laws for specifics.

6. Name and address

Include the name and address of the brewer, bottler, or packer. An authorized trade name may be used in place of a legal name.

7. Net contents

Clearly list the amount in U.S. measurements—such as “12 fl. oz.” or “1 pint.”

8. “Lite,” “Light,” and “Low Carb” beers

If your label uses “light” or “lite,” it must also include a statement of average analysis showing calories, carbs, protein, and fat per serving. “Low carb” beers can’t exceed 7 grams of carbs per 12 oz. serving.

9. Mandatory health warning

All alcoholic beverages with 0.5% ABV or higher must include this statement:

GOVERNMENT WARNING: (1) According to the Surgeon General, women should not drink alcoholic beverages during pregnancy because of the risk of birth defects. (2) Consumption of alcoholic beverages impairs your ability to drive a car or operate machinery and may cause health problems.

Designing beer labels that stand out

Once you’ve checked all the compliance boxes, it’s time for the fun part, creating a label that reflects your brewery’s style and story.

Determine your label dimensions

Measure the flat area of your bottle (below the shoulder) to get accurate label dimensions. If you reuse bottles, choose a consistent label size for a uniform look.

Select your label shape and size

Different bottle styles pair well with different label shapes. Try rectangles or ovals for classic bottles, or arched labels for a modern twist. Avery offers dozens of shapes and sizes to fit any bottle type.

Choose the right label material

Your material sets the tone.

• Waterproof film – Perfect for chilled or outdoor brews.
• Metallic labels – Add a modern, premium look.
• Textured paper – Ideal for rustic or craft-style branding.

Design for brand impact

Use Avery Design & Print Online to customize templates or upload your own artwork. Go bold with typography and colors that capture your brewery’s personality. And make sure your logo is front and center as consistency builds recognition.

Test and review

Always print a sample or order a small batch before a full run. Double-check that all required info is visible and that your design looks sharp on the actual bottle.

Bring your beer label vision to life

Ready to start? Explore our Beer Label Gallery for customizable templates, printable sheets, or professionally printed options that meet both your branding and TTB compliance needs.

Need help? Call our U.S.-based team at (800) 942-8379 or chat online. We’re happy to walk you through your label options, designing and ordering your beer labels.