{"id":1826,"date":"2025-10-20T10:27:48","date_gmt":"2025-10-20T17:27:48","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.avery.com\/blog\/?p=1826"},"modified":"2026-04-16T16:53:51","modified_gmt":"2026-04-16T23:53:51","slug":"how-to-make-beer-labels","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.avery.com\/blog\/how-to-make-beer-labels\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Make Beer Labels: A Complete Guide"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

TTB requirements and design tips for craft brewers and breweries<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Whether you\u2019re a small-batch brewer or run a full-scale brewery, your beer label has to do two things: meet TTB labeling requirements<\/a> and stand out on the shelf. Navigating those federal rules can feel complicated, but we\u2019ve simplified everything you need to know, from beer label requirements to design tips that help your brand shine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you\u2019re ready to create, Avery makes it easy to order printable beer labels or custom printed beer labels<\/a> online with fast shipping and low minimums. You can also browse beer label templates<\/a> to easily customize your own labels or just ot get inspired.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Beer<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
Beer Labeling Guidelines<\/a>Download<\/a><\/div>\n\n\n\n

What is a malt beverage?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) defines a malt beverage<\/em> 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

TTB-required information for beer labels<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

1. Brand name<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

List your brewery\u2019s name or the brand your beer is sold under. Avoid any language that could mislead consumers about the beer\u2019s age, origin, or type.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Country of origin<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Imported beers must clearly display the country of origin, like \u201cProduct of Belgium\u201d or \u201cProduct of Canada.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Draft or draught<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you use \u201cdraft\u201d or \u201cdraught,\u201d it usually means the beer isn\u2019t pasteurized. You can still use \u201cdraft brewed\u201d for pasteurized beer\u2014just make that clear on your label.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Class designation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Identify your product type (e.g., \u201cbeer,\u201d \u201cale,\u201d \u201clager\u201d). If it includes special ingredients such as fruit, honey, or spices, include a statement like \u201cAle brewed with honey.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Alcohol content<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This is optional for most beers, but required if the beverage contains added alcohol. Always check your state\u2019s labeling laws for specifics.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6. Name and address<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Include the name and address of the brewer, bottler, or packer. An authorized trade name may be used in place of a legal name.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

7. Net contents<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Clearly list the amount in U.S. measurements\u2014such as \u201c12 fl. oz.\u201d or \u201c1 pint.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

8. \u201cLite,\u201d \u201cLight,\u201d and \u201cLow Carb\u201d beers<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If your label uses \u201clight\u201d or \u201clite,\u201d it must also include a statement of average analysis showing calories, carbs, protein, and fat per serving. \u201cLow carb\u201d beers can\u2019t exceed 7 grams of carbs per 12 oz. serving.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

9. Mandatory health warning<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

All alcoholic beverages with 0.5% ABV or higher must include this statement:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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GOVERNMENT WARNING:<\/strong> (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.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n

Designing beer labels that stand out<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Once you\u2019ve checked all the compliance boxes, it\u2019s time for the fun part, creating a label that reflects your brewery\u2019s style and story.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Beer<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Determine your label dimensions<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Select your label shape and size<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Choose the right label material<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Your material sets the tone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n