How to Make Coffee Labels: A Complete Guide

A step-by-step guide on making coffee labels

Coffee labels do more than look good. They tell your story, showcase your coffee’s unique flavors, and help customers know exactly what they’re buying. Whether you’re a small roaster or a large distributor, this step-by-step guide will show you how to design coffee labels that pop, inform, and sell.

1. What to include on coffee labels

When designing labels, you need a mix of creativity and clarity. Include the following essentials:

• Coffee name: Pick a memorable name that matches your coffee’s character and your brand’s personality.
• Origin: Let customers know where the beans were grown—Ethiopian, Colombian, or another region. Origin often hints at flavor.
• Roast level: Clearly state light, medium, or dark roast to help customers choose their favorite.
• Flavor notes: Use descriptors like “nutty,” “chocolatey,” or “citrusy” to showcase the coffee’s unique taste.
• Brewing recommendations: Suggest methods like French press, pour-over, or espresso to guide your customers.
• Net weight: Required by law, this tells customers exactly how much coffee they’re getting.
• Certifications: Highlight organic, fair trade, or direct trade to show quality and ethics.
• Allergen information: Note any allergens like milk or nuts if applicable.
• Brand details: Add your logo, company name, website, and contact info to build recognition and trust.

Tip: Check your region’s labeling rules (FDA, USDA, or local authorities) to make sure you’re fully compliant.

2. Coffee label design tips

Your label should represent your brand while standing out on the shelf. Keep these tips in mind:

• Color palette: Match colors to your coffee’s mood. Earthy tones feel cozy and artisanal, while bright colors feel bold and energetic.
• Typography: Stick to 2–3 complementary fonts. Highlight key info like the coffee name or flavor notes.
• Graphics & images: Use beans, maps, or subtle abstract art to tell your coffee’s story. Keep it clean so it doesn’t overwhelm.
• Logo placement: Make it visible but balanced. Top or bottom placement usually works best.
• Shape & size: Choose a label shape that fits your bag or container, leaving room for all important info.

3. Choosing the right label materials

The material affects both durability and style. Popular options include:

Glossy: Bold colors and sharp graphics pop, great for eye-catching designs.

Matte: Smooth, subtle, and sophisticated—ideal for artisanal or minimalist brands.

Waterproof: Perfect for kitchens or refrigerated storage. Keeps your label intact despite moisture.

Metallic: Adds a premium feel and highlights luxury qualities.

Holographic: Shifts color and reflects light for a modern, adventurous look.

Tip: Pick a material that reflects your brand and protects your label from wear and tear.

4. How to print coffee labels

Professional printing

For polished, consistent results, professional printing is the way to go. Avery custom printing offers a wide range of materials, finishes, and shapes, from waterproof labels to metallic or holographic finishes. Custom printing saves time and gives your labels a high-quality, store-ready look.

DIY printing

Perfect for small batches or testing designs. Avery blank coffee labels work with standard inkjet or laser printers. Order sheets or rolls with no minimum quantity. Use Avery Design & Print software to customize with templates or upload your own artwork.

Tip: Not sure which is best? Compare DIY vs. professional printing to find the right fit for your business.

5. Tips for creating effective coffee labels

Test on packaging: Print samples and try them on bags or containers to ensure readability, color accuracy, and layout.

Highlight what makes it special: Emphasize single-origin beans, rare roast profiles, or unique flavor notes.

Use durable materials: Protect your labels with waterproof, metallic, or high-quality finishes.

Keep it clean: Don’t overcrowd. Prioritize essentials like roast, origin, and certifications.

Design for your audience: Minimalist styles suit premium coffee lovers; bold designs attract casual buyers.

Ready to make coffee labels that sell?

We’re here to help you design, order, and print coffee labels that showcase your brand. Whether you need blank labels to print at home or custom-printed labels delivered to your door, our customer care team is ready to assist. Call us at 800-462-8379 or visit Avery.com to get started today.