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Sustainable Packaging

Exploring PCR Plastic: A Sustainable Packaging Shift for Businesses

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Exploring PCR Plastic: A Sustainable
Packaging Shift for Businesses

What is PCR plastic?

PCR plastic, which stands for post consumer recycled plastic, is an eco-friendly packaging process that utilizes recycled materials from PET bottles and existing plastics, giving them a second life in the supply chain. With billions of pounds of plastic waste generated each year, there is a serious need to expand the use of PCR plastics for new products.

What is PCR plastic

Advantages of PCR packaging

While all recyclable plastic packaging is a step in the right direction for brands and businesses looking to reduce their carbon footprint, there are several specific benefits worth discussing, including marketing advantages and adhering to regulatory compliance. 

Environmental Benefits

The environmental benefits of using PCR packaging should go without saying. Using post consumer recycled plastic in lieu of other more wasteful materials can work towards reducing landfill waste, conserving precious resources and raw materials, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The environmental impact of recyclable packaging is the core benefit of using PCR plastics.

Environmental Benefits
Marketing Advantages

Marketing Advantages

Beyond using less energy and fossil fuels to manufacture and recycle, brands shouldn't overlook the marketing advantages of using PCR packaging. By adding messaging to your packaging about your company's sustainable manufacturing process and how it supports recycling programs, you can meet consumer demand for recyclable packaging, ultimately enhancing your brand image. 

Regulatory Compliance

As time goes on, more and more local, state, and federal regulations will focus on reducing the waste in the environment created by plastic packaging. By using PCR packaging now (instead of when you're "forced" to), you can beat the regulatory bodies to the punch and be prepared for future regulations on the use of recycled plastics for plastic bottles and other plastic products. 

Regulatory Compliance

Challenges of Using Recycled Plastic Packaging

Of course, as with any type of material used for packaging, PCR plastic has some disadvantages. It's important to weigh any short-term challenges with long-term benefits before deciding if PCR plastic packaging is right for you. Our team can help you evaluate both sides to make a decision. 

Discoloration

The reheating process in creating this type of product packaging can alter its color and clarity. Though it foes not hinder functionality, it can clash with the aesthetic of some brands. Fortunately, many customers are forgiving of slight discoloration if they know it's enhancing the circular economy.

Discoloration pcr packaging
Supply chain complexities in pcr packaging

Supply chain complexities

The availability and consistency of the supply is not always guaranteed (because, after all, it requires that consumers recycle), which can cause delays. To help encourage recycling, some brands are printing information about how to use a recycling center on their new packaging. 

Cost implications

The initial upfront cost of using post consumer recycled material is more expensive than other options currently available. Still it's worth noting, that the long-term positive impact on the environment and meeting sustainability goals trumps any short-term financial impact of using recyclable packaging. 

Cost implications of pcr business packaging

How to Implement Recycled Plastics in Your Packaging Strategy

If you're ready to reduce the use of fossil fuels and take the leap into sustainable packaging, and feel that PCR packaging is the right choice, implementing recycled plastics into your packaging strategy isn't difficult. The initial step is to assess feasibility of shifting to PCR packaging: audit your current packaging and supply chain, and evaluate how using packaging made from post consumer resin pellets will change this. 

Next, you'll need to partner with the right suppliers and recycling facilities who have experience with these packaging types. Ask them about their experience with recycled products and which eco friendly packaging options they can offer you. Finally, work with them to determine what the best practices are for designing your packaging with PCR materials to maintain packaging effectiveness. 

Future Trends & Innovations in PCR Packaging

As time goes on, we expect more innovations to be made in regards to post consumer resin and how post consumer recycled content is made and used. As technology improves, plastics will be more widely recycled and regular plastic film (aka virgin plastic) will become less and less common. 

We also anticipate that there will be an uptick in collaborations between companies and recycling initiatives, similar to how companies like Lush provide freebies to customers who bring plastic cosmetics containers back to the store for recycling. 

Finally, and perhaps most importantly, we anticipate legislative changes that will impact the use of PCR products. These changes will likely mandate the use of PCR content in finished products so more plastic material is kept our of the landfills and our larger environment. 

CarePac: Your Partner in PCR Packaging

Regardless of the type of product you produce, a higher percentage of customers are focusing on the distribution chain and how it impacts the recycling stream. Fortunately, one plastic type that checks all the boxes and has a good shelf life is recycled PET packaging. Unlike virgin resin or virgin plastics, PCR packaging is created using plastic waste that already exists. 

If you're ready to discuss switching to PCR packaging, you've come to the right place. With decades of experience in the industry, and a passion for sustainable packaging, we can help you get started. Contact us today. 

CarePac_ Your Partner in PCR Packaging

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what is embossing
Packaging Design

What is Embossing

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Embossing Guide: Elevating Packaging
 with Textural Enhancements

What is embossing?

If you've ever wondered "what is embossing", you've come to the right place. This guide will help you learn how to elevate your packaging with luxurious textural elements, setting your brand apart with a unique touch. You'll learn how to choose the right materials for the embossing process, designs to consider for the embossed pattern on your packaging, and how to choose the right partner to help you create a polished appearance through a custom embossed effect. 

Understanding the differences between embossing and debossing

Although this article discusses embossing specifically, we want to take the time to discuss debossing, since the two are often confused. If you touch the surface of the card and can feel a raised texture, this is an embossed image. If you touch the surface and feel a depression, this is a debossed image. Understanding the differences between the debossing embossing process can be confusing, so hopefully this helps!

understanding between embossing vs debossing

Embossing process: Embossed image techniques

When it comes to embossing paper, there are a few different embossing and debossing techniques to consider, including blind embossing, heat embossing, combination embossing, and the dry embossing technique. We'll discuss each of these embossed designs and paper embossing techniques below. 

Blind embossing

This embossed paper technique allows you to add textured elements to your card stock or emboss paper using a heat tool, embossing powder, embossing ink, and a stamp. Heat embossing can be complex, but in general it involves foil emboss stamping or writing with a special ink, sprinkling embossing powder over the design, and heating it with a heat gun to create the desired raised effect. 

Blind embossing
combination embossing

Combination embossing

Combination embossing involves embossing and foil stamping the same image, and is given this name since it is quite literally a combination between standard embossing and foil stamping. Usually embossing metal plates (also called a sculptured die) will be used in this process, and it's best used with folding carton boxes, corrugated boxes, or rigid boxes. 

Dry embossing

Also referred to as relief or paper embossing, this technique involves creating a raised or textured pattern on paper or cardstock without using ink or heat. Blind embossing is a type of dry embossing, because it uses a stamped image to create an embossed or debossed pattern in lieu of using ink. 

Dry embossing
Registered embossing

Registered embossing

With registered embossing, a blind embossed image is placed with another element created using ink, foil or a second embossed image to create a unique 3D design. The registered emboss technique creates depth and texture, and is ideal for folding cartons and paper packaging, including paper mailers, floor displays, and branded wine bags. 

Choosing the right materials for embossed packaging

Typically, the best materials to use for embossing are card stock, rigid cardboard, or thick paper or other materials that provide a bit of rigidity. One household item that's commonly embossed is a business card, where the logo or name of the individual is in a raised area. 

Design considerations for embossed packaging

There are a few design considerations to keep in mind as you create your embossed packaging: 

Choose the location carefully

Look closely at your packaging to determine the exact location you want the embossed image to go. This way, you have a better idea of sizing and the space that's available for other details or images. 

Choose the correct location carefully
Convert your graphic to vector format for embossing

Convert your graphic to vector format

You want to convert your images into a vector format in order to keep the quality of the design. When using vectors, you can resize a graphic as big or small as you would like without compromising the quality of the image.

Do not go overboard with your design

Keep it simple! Too many details can muddle the graphic or distort the image. As a rule of thumb, the simpler you can make the design for the embossing or debossing process, the better the results will be. 

Do not go overboard with your design in embossing
Think about the back while embossing

Think about the back

When considering an embossed design, it is incredibly important to think about the reverse side of your card or packaging. If you plan on customizing or using the backside of the paper, you may want to consider a different technique. 

Select your material wisely

Last but not least, select your material wisely. We discussed some appropriate material to consider above, but if you're in doubt our CareDesign team can help you select the right material for your design. 

embossing vs debossing Select your material wisely

CarePac: The embossing experts

At CarePac, we have been crafting packaging that has a shiny or polished appearance for years. We have experience with both embossing and debossing, and have a state-of-the-art die cutting machine. We'll help you select a material, work with you to determine if using metal is appropriate, and can even create a beautiful multi level emboss design for your packaging. 

You started this blog wondering "what is embossing" and we hope we've provided some clarity. Ready to get started on your project? We are, too! Contact us today to get started. 

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Laser Cutting The Science of Laser Cutting in Packaging Design
Other Packaging Topics

The Science of Laser Cutting in Packaging Design

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The Science of Laser Cutting in Packaging Design

Laser cutting is an extremely precise and versatile method that uses a laser beam to cut various shapes or objects out of plastic, acrylic, or other materials, regardless of material thickness. In packaging design, specifically, laser cutting with a focused laser beam ensures dimensional accuracy, and is more accurate than many other types of cutting, regardless of material thickness.


Additionally, laser cutting with a laser beam is a cutting edge technology often used to cut materials for prototyping or low-volume production runs.


Sometimes referred to as laser scoring, laser cutting also means that packages can be opened effortlessly because they're constructed with materials that provide clean and easy opening. If you sell or manufacture products that will be opened by a consumer (think: candy, coffee, or any other type of snack), then our laser cutting capabilities should be considered. 

How Does Laser Cutting Work?

As you probably guessed, the laser cutting process works by using a laser cutting machine and a high-powered laser beam to cut materials. These laser beams don't cut or melt and don't waste heat or have high power consumption; instead, the laser beam vaporizes the material which prevents it from catching fire or degrading. The laser wavelengths can be visible or invisible to the eye, depending on the light spectrum of the wavelength. The laser beams pass through several mirrors before converging at a single spot.


A special laser cutting software in the laser systems moves the laser head/module back and forth over different materials via an automated process, per the settings that are entered into the computer controlled machine via computer numerical control (CNC).


As soon as the laser beam lands on the intended target, the temperature increases, causing sublimation. Depending on the strength of the laser beams, this process can be done in one pass or may require several passes to cut materials with the laser head. 

What Materials Can Be Cut By a Laser Beam?

As a packaging and pouch provider, we typically use the focused laser beam to cut through plastic material, paper, or cardboard, but laser cutting can be used to cut through a various materials, including very thick materials and thin materials, too.


Since not all materials are compatible, particularly thicker materials, here just a few other materials that can work with laser cutting technologies to create extremely precise cuts. From wood to metals, learn about the various materials that can be used with a laser generator:



Laser cutting machines are often used to cut through wood, regardless of the material thickness. If you've ever held a wood Christmas ornament or seen cutting boards with letters engraved into it, these are two examples of how laser cutting is often used with wood.

Acrylic

If your application requires an attractive, clean, and beautiful finish, using acrylic in tandem with laser cutting is a good choice. Awards, trophies, and decorative items and figurines that are made out of acrylic are often the result of laser cutting.


Plastic

This is where CarePac shines! Some of the plastic materials that are suitable for use with a laser cutting machine include: acrylic (PMMA), polystyrene (PS), polyethylene (PE), and polypropylene (PP), just to name a few. Different plastics have different melting points, so always check with a professional about material compatibility.


Fabric

Since laser cutting can create extremely clean cuts, it can be used to cut shapes out of different types of fabric, including cotton, silk, polyester, and leather.


Paper and cardboard

Have you ever seen a beautiful paper lantern with intricate shapes cut into it, or seen a beautiful wedding invitation with lots of embellishments? Chances are both of these items were created by using laser cutting in combination with paper or cardboard materials.


Metals

Since metal is so hard, it almost always requires a high powered pulsed laser beam to cut through it. For cut metal, specifically, using fiber lasers is ideal, since this type of laser is high power and produces very high energy laser pulses. Need to cut metal? Using a high power laser is key. 

Why Laser Cutting for Custom Pouches?

When it comes to laser cutting for custom pouches, there are a few things that separate this type of industrial cutting technology from others. Here are just a few of the core advantages of laser cutting:


Extremely precise

Laser cutting is perhaps the most precise cutting process, especially when compared to other manufacturing processes. If accuracy and preciseness is important, using laser technologies is the best choice.


Very efficient

Producing products using laser cutting is extremely efficient. The metal cutting industry, in general, has tried-and-true processes in place that can create intricate designs with laser processing in a very short mount of time.


Customizable

One of the best parts of partnering with a laser cutting business for your marketing materials or products is that it's highly customizable. Since the high powered laser only cuts where you tell it to, cutting thick materials is just as easy as cutting thin ones.


Flexibility

The laser cutting process is often used for short runs and prototyping, so you won't be tied to large orders. This is one of the key advantages of laser cutting machine.

Now that you know more about the advantages of laser cutting, read on to learn more about two different manufacturing processes that use laser cutting: laser perforation and scoring. 


Laser Perforation & Scoring

With laser perforation and scoring, your barrier films can be made "breathable", meaning you can package things that need to breathe, like fresh-cut produce. Some common applications for laser scoring include:

  • Fresh-cut produce

  • Steam release for microwaveable packaging, like popcorn.

  • High-altitude burst elimination

  • Venting of excess air in bulk packaging that can build up over time.

Since laser scoring requires no tooling, it has a lower up-front cost, making it a viable alternative to more traditional plasma cutting methods. 

Why Choose CarePac for Your Laser Cutting Needs

With decades of experience in the flexible packaging industry, CarePac is your go-to source for all your laser cutting needs. We have access to the highest-quality laser cutting machines and technology, including fiber lasers, transverse flow lasers, and high power CNC machines. Our laser cutting services are affordable, efficient, and we proudly perform all work in the USA.


Our CareDesign team is on hand to answer any questions you may have, from the desired cutting width to how our high energy fiber laser works. Contact us today to get your project started.


Laser Cutting FAQs

What materials can be laser cut for packaging purposes?

A variety of different materials can be used with a seed laser, including paper, plastic, cardboard, stainless steel, and acrylic.


Can laser cutting services be used for all types of packaging designs?

Yes. As long as the high energy laser beam is compatible with the material you're using, our laser cutting services can be used for all types of packaging designs.


What are the cost implications of opting for laser-cut packaging?

Though the cost of laser cutting services varies greatly depending on on the laser power and whether it's a fiber laser or uses radio frequency energy, it does have its advantages in that it has low start-up costs.


What is the turnaround time for producing laser-cut packaging?

Laser cutting services typically take 2-4 days, but this depends on a variety of factors, including the project size, the types of laser used, and the type of material (i.e., stainless steel is more expensive for laser cutting machines to cut through than other materials.) 

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Packaging Design

Foiling Techniques for Eye-Catching Packaging Designs

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Foiling Techniques for
Eye-Catching Packaging Designs

When it comes to selling your product, first impressions matter. And the best way to make a good first impression is through your packaging design. If you're looking for ways to take your packaging solutions to the next level, there are a variety of custom packaging techniques to choose from, including embossing, debossing, and foil stamping. Which you choose ultimately depends on the substrate and the type of unique designs you're most interested in creating. 

In this blog, we'll discuss foiling techniques in custom packaging, including the metallic foil stamping process and the unique benefits of foil stamping.

What is foil stamping?

Foil stamping is a specialty printing process that uses metal dies, heat, and pressure to apply foil films directly to your packaging in a thin layer. Although hot foil stamping is the most common form of foil stamping, some companies opt for a cold foiling printing technique, which uses UV light to transfer the metallic foil (instead of heat and pressure) to your packaging material. 

For the sake of this blog, we will discuss using hot stamping foils to create eye catching designs, specifically. Read on to learn about the different types of foil stamping applications and techniques, regardless of your preference for a matte or glossy look.

What is foil stamping
Common foil stamping applications

Common foil stamping applications

Often used in stationery, labels, holiday cards, certificates, book covers, and post cards, the addition of a gold or silver foil to your product packaging can give it a very elegant and high-end appearance. Although gold foil is an incredibly popular choice, there are a variety of metallic foils and foil colors to chose from, including holographic foils, metallic or copper, silver foil, and foils with a glossy finish. 

Different foiling techniques in packaging

Based on the substrate, type of finish, and desired effect, you can choose from one of these hot stamping techniques. Learn more about the different methods of gold foil stamping below. 

Flat metallic foil stamping


With flat foil stamping, a copper or magnesium metal stamp or metal die transfers the foil directly onto the substrate. This is a simple, and economical process and is ideal for companies on a strict budget. 

Vertical foil printing


With vertical hot foil stamping, silver or gold foil designs are stamped directly onto flat packaging and paper products in specific cylindrical shaped areas using heat. 

Sculpted foil stamping


This hot stamping technique uses metal dies to achieve a raised image via embossing the material. The end result of this stamping process is a clearly designed and "carved" look. With this technique, you can feel the stamped area with your hands.

Peripheral foil printing


This stamping process involves transferring foil to the outer perimeter, across the entire circumference, of the product. As you probably guessed, this stamping option is a more expensive option since it involves adding the metallic foil film to the entire package. 

Design considerations for foil stamping

If you're considering incorporating gold foil into your packaging designs, here are some quick tips to keep in mind as you explore the many different types of materials and designs: 


  • Use vector art instead of bitmap or raster as you prepare your file for printing
  • If you're adding stamping foil to text, in most cases, the minimum recommended font size is 8pt (also remember that types appear bolder in foil then they do in ink)
  • Space out your text for enhanced readability
  • Remember that gold foil printing can be combined with other elements, like high gloss or a rainbow effect. You also aren't limited to gold: you can choose silver, metallic paper, or holographic foil.
Design considerations for foil stamping
Evaluating the costs

Evaluating the costs of adding metallic foils into your packaging

Foil stamping may not appear cost effective from the start, but the process can help increase the perceived value of your brand. Whether you're competing with other brands or want your brand to reach a new target audience, foil printing is a great option. Whether you opt for gold foil, holographic foil, or one of the other types of foil stamping, one thing is for sure: foil stamping is eye catching and the perfect way to enhance your brand image, regardless of the color or types of foil you use. 

Choosing the right partner for foiling

As you can see, foil stamping and foil printing is an incredibly complex process. It's important to find a partner that's well-versed in foil stamping, embossing, debossing, and other printing techniques. 

Fortunately, CarePac lives and breathes product packaging and is very experienced with hot foil stamping. Our CareDesign team can help walk you through the stamped process, from the design stages all the way through shipping. With CarePac, creating the packaging of your dreams is possible! Contact us today to get started. 

Choosing the right partner for foiling

Foil stamping FAQs

How does foil stamping enhance the visual appeal of a brand's packaging?

Since foil stamping produces a reflective and vibrant finish, it can help catch your customer's attention. Gold, silver, or holographic foil stamping can also make your product more noticeable and attractive on the shelves. 

Can foil stamping be integrated with other design elements on packaging?

Yes! With foil stamping, you aren't just limited to...foil stamping! You can create packaging that also includes features like soft touch, matte, or holographic or metallic paper elements or materials. 

What is the turnaround time for a foil stamping project with CarePac?

Our innovative lead-time menu gives you more control over your printing or stamping project. We offer Express, Standard, and Economy options. You can learn more here.

Do you offer foil stamping prototyping before final order placement?

Yes! If you want to see your foil stamping project before you put in a large order, there's no pressure. Just inquire about our printing and prototyping options as you get started with your design. We're ready to help you achieve the perfect packaging on a timeline that works best for you. We can also help you select the right material, whether you prefer a matte or glossy look. 

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Exhibitions and Tradeshows

World Tea Expo Pouch Packaging Provider

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World Tea Expo Pouch
Packaging Provider

About the World Tea Expo

You've spent years crafting the perfect blend of chamomile and ginger, but are concerned about the fierce competition in the tea and beverage industry. Or maybe you're the vice president of a brand new tea brand and are hoping to network and cultivate meaningful new relationships in the tea and coffee industry. Or perhaps your current packaging just doesn't seem to keep your tea fresh and your business is seeking some professional advice from other packaging suppliers... 

If this sounds like you, the World Tea Expo is probably already on your radar. With eight international world tea pavilions, a tea bar, a team primer certification, and a beverage challenge, the World Tea Expo is the premier expo for the tea industry. And, if you fall into the third category, we're especially looking forward to meeting you and discussing some fresh ideas at this year's World Tea Expo in Las Vegas! 

Why CarePac?

We're a premier packaging partner for companies of all sizes. Our customers range from the smallest tea shop to the largest tea manufacturers, and everything in between. Not only does our packaging help with preventing deterioration of your tea, but it'll provide an outstanding barrier against organic vapors. 

Tea leaves might come from around the world, but your packaging shouldn't. All our products are proudly made in the USA, and we pride ourselves on being a small and family-owned company with low MOQs. This doesn't mean we can't handle volume, though! Regardless of the size or scope of your project, we can help create the perfect packaging to complement the unique flavors of your latest blend. Bonus: it might improve taste and increase sales, too! 

Why CarePac for world tea expo

Pouches we offer to the tea industry

Although we offer hundreds of different bag and pouch variations, if you're researching the World Tea Expo you probably only care about tea! Here's some quick information about the wholesale packaging our services have been creating for companies in the tea industry: 

gusseted

Gusseted

Our gusseted bags are ultra durable and allow the pouch to stay upright. Though it's an older bag configuration, it's still an incredibly popular choice for the tea industry. 

Stand up pouches tea expo

Stand up pouches

With over 50 materials available, we have a material that will ensure your stand up pouch has superior seal strength and will keep the packaged teas inside as fresh as they were the day the pouch was packed. 

2-seal and 3-seal pouches

2-seal and 3-seal pouches

2 and 3-seal bags are very easy to pack and seal and can include a zipper or hang hole for added customization. 

All three packaging options will help extend the shelf life of your tea, meaning your customer will be happier and the big box retailers you partner with will be, too! Keep up with trends in packaging and partner with the best of the best. 


Customization-options-for-tea-expo-packaging.


Customization options to consider 

The tea industry is seeping (pun intended!) with competition, and standing out from the crowd comes down to marketing and packaging. Fortunately, we can help with both by customizing your packaging in a creative and fun way that will keep up with trends and showcase your teas. Here are a few areas of customization to start thinking about: 

  • Materials- For tea and coffee, we recommend CareSilver-PVP, CareFoil- PAP, and CareKraft-MKVP.
  • Printing/finishes- We can print using digital or rotogravure and offer pouch finishes that include gloss, matte, and soft touch effects.
  • Zippers- Do you sell your tea or coffee in bulk and need a built-in zipper to help extend the shelf life of your tea? We can do that!
  • Tamper proof- We can incorporate tamper proof elements into your bag so your customers know if their tea has been tampered with before purchase.
  • Eco-friendly options- In today's environment, finding eco-friendly bag options is more important than ever. Even better, our sustainable options provide the same quality as our regular bags.
  • Roll stock options- Keep your business moving with roll stock options that work with a form fill seal machine and assembly line.

See you at the Expo!

Want to talk to us in person about your packaging needs or sustainability goals? Curious about how we can help your restaurant or business succeed in a highly competitive market? Have questions about our customization process and how it can help with marketing your product? You can catch us at the 2025 World Tea Expo!

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heritage packaging competitors
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Heritage Packaging Competitors & Alternatives for Custom Pouches

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Heritage Packaging Competitors &
Alternatives for Custom Pouches

Established in 1990, Heritage Packaging provides unique sustainable packaging and protective packaging solutions that can't be bought off the shelf. Their team of packaging engineers, machine operators, and fabricators work together to create packaging solutions, including food packaging, for their clients. 


Although Heritage Packaging is one of the leading manufacturers in the packaging industry and developed a state-of-the-art packaging feature, they aren't for everyone. If you're hoping to learn more about Heritage Packaging alternatives, you've come to the right place. In this blog, we'll discuss some of Heritage Packaging's key competitors and emerging players in the flexible barrier packaging space. 

CarePac: The Preferred Vendor for Sustainable Packaging Alternatives

CarePac hertiage packaging alterntaives Heritage Packaging Competitors & Alternatives for Custom Pouches

Unlike some of the other Heritage competitors on this list, CarePac lives and breathes flexible packaging. We have 10+ years experience in the industry, and constantly seek plastic alternatives and sustainable packaging that will help reduce your carbon footprint. If you're trying to avoid single use plastic and are looking for a biodegradable alternative that produces less waste, our solutions can help. 

But, don't just take it from us. Take it from our happy customers, who said this on Google: "This company is amazing with their customer service and fast shipping. They also have a great amount of bags and pouches that your business could use. The products are durable with great quality and a professional experience. Be sure to check them out for your needs. I am positive you will be glad you did!"

Curious about our other products, our company, our business model, our services, the materials we use, cost, trends in the industry, or anything else? Browse our website to learn more or contact us today

Other Heritage Packaging Competitors

According to Semrush, an analytical tool used for digital marketing purposes, Heritage Packaging's key organic competitors include: 

Heritage Container

Heritage Container is one of the leading sustainable packaging alternatives to Heritage Packaging. They believe that retail and food packaging is part of the product, and focus on offering packaging materials made out of sustainable materials. This Heritage competitor is ideal if you're concerned about carbon emissions, greenhouse gas emissions, reducing plastic waste in the landfills, your carbon footprint, and the environmental impact using single use plastic in your packaging. 

the heritage container
The Packaging Company

The Packaging Company

Based in New Zealand, The Packaging Company is a 100% locally owned and operated packaging supplier. They have 85 years of packaging knowledge, and are dedicated to providing the best price on their packaging, promoting product integrity, and high-quality service. Although their range of packaging products includes packaging alternatives like bubble wrap, liners, cardboard boxes, produce bags, and adhesive tapes, they focus primarily on the manufacture of custom printed polythene packaging. 

Victor Packaging

Victor Packaging is an innovative manufacturer of plastic tube packaging in South East Asia. Composed of six different packaging companies with 450 employees in Thailand, they offer a wide range of PBL tubes and PET bottles, primarily for the beauty industry. Their packaging is trusted by leading brands like L'Oreal, Nivea, and Amika, and their packaging can be used for a variety of health and beauty applications. 

Victor Packaging
ABC Packaging Direct

ABC Packaging Direct

ABC Packaging Direct is a global supplier of flexible packaging, including food packaging, pouches made from single use plastics, and styrofoam. They strive to be an end-to-end strategic packaging and sourcing partner for businesses of all sizes, and take a relationship-first approach to sourcing raw materials for their packaging. 

The Need for Custom Pouch Packaging & Packaging Materials

custom packaging solutions Heritage Packaging Competitors & Alternatives for Custom Pouches

In recent years, there has been a growing demand for personalized and custom packaging solutions that also reduce plastic waste and protect renewable resources. Unfortunately, due to their sheer size and market value, Heritage Packaging and many of its key competitors simply cannot meet consumer expectations for packaging in this area. 

To put it simply, fully customizing a packaging product using plastic alternatives while maintaining product integrity isn't easy, and doing so while reducing greenhouse gas emissions and avoiding wasteful paper mills is even more difficult. 

Fortunately, packaging companies like CarePac are moving in the right direction. We can create flexible packaging that's 100% customized, allowing customers to create eco-friendly sustainable packaging that keeps its environmental impacts in view that accurately represents your brand. From the top of the bag to the bottom, we'll find solutions for branding that you won't find elsewhere in the packaging industry and do all of this while still caring for the environment. 

Emerging Trend: Sustainability and the Environment

One of the biggest emerging trends in flexible packaging centers on reducing the environmental impact of packaging materials. The three branches of sustainable packaging include landfill diversion through the development of materials that are easily processed by recycling facilities. Two, biodegradable plastic bags that customers can compost with other food waste, or send to a specialized composting facility. Third, using recycled plastic in the composition of the bags (also know as PCR or post consumer recycled. 

Emerging Trend in heritage packaging Sustainability

Sales of sustainable packaging alternatives have increased each year and with the adoption of sustainability goals by large companies such as Coca Cola which plans to "[m]ake 100% of our packaging recyclable globally by 2025— and use at least 50% recycled material in our packaging by 2030."

So as the composition of the plastic that is used in bags and pouches changes, brands have to stock the biodegradable, recycled, and sustainable material that their customers are looking for. 

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Exhibitions and Tradeshows

Cannacon Pouch Packaging – Custom Cannabis Pouches

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Cannacon Pouch Packaging
Custom Cannabis Pouches

CannaCon is the premier B2B cannabis tradeshow, focusing on all aspects of the cannabiz, including cultivation, retail trends, product packaging, marketing, branding, and so much more. Each year, thousands of like-minded entrepreneurs head to CannaCon South, West, Northeast, and Midwest to create and strengthen their partnerships within the cannabis industry. This year, you can join 800+ exhibitors and 25,000+ attendees to network, learn, and have some fun! 

If you’re curious about cannabis pouch packaging specifically, you’re in luck! In 2024, CarePac will be attending CannaCon, and we’ll be available live and in person to answer any and all your questions about cannabis packaging. 

Why CarePac?

Why not CarePac? First, we’re California-based, meaning we’ve been packaging cannabis for a lot longer than a lot of the other guys. We’re well-versed in the ins and outs of cannabis packaging, including compliance requirements and the essentials like child resistance properties and making sure the bags are smell-proof and tamper-proof.  

We pride ourselves on being small and family-owned. When you contact us, you’re contacting the owners of the company directly, and we strive to make every single customer a repeat one. All our products are proudly made in the USA, and we don’t tie you to exorbitantly high order minimums. We offer prototyping as few as 100 units, meaning you can sell limited runs or special strains without having to worry about storing or keeping excess pouches. 

why-choose-carepac-for-cannacon-packaging

Types of Cannabis Packaging We Offer

Although we offer hundreds of different bag variations, we do offer specialty pouches that are catered specifically to cannabis brands. Here are a few of the packaging options we recommend for our roster of clients in the cannabis industry: 

The outer packaging that a customer leaves the dispensary with is the perfect opportunity for branding and customization. We can make custom printed child resistant packaging in a variety of styles, including shopping bag styles and standard exit bags.

Because edibles are consumed, it’s important that your packaging reflects the quality of the product inside. It’s also important that it keeps the product inside fresh. Fortunately, our edibles packaging can do both. 

Not only is custom gummy packaging a great way to make your cannabis product look as good as it tastes but, when manufactured correctly, it’ll ensure your product is compliant with laws and regulations and will make sure the cannabis and CBD gummies inside stay as fresh and as potent as they were the day they were made.

We understand that the cannabis flower is sensitive to the environment so we work hard to maintain your high standards by utilizing high quality, sustainable, materials to ensure that your marijuana, CBD, hemp, and other cannabis flower products stays fresh in the bag. Shop our selection today!

customization-options-for-cannacon-packaging

Other Customization Options

Let’s face it -- the cannabis industry is highly regulated, as it should be. As such, there are certain regulations and restrictions cannabis companies need to meet with their packaging. Fortunately, CarePac can customize your bag to include the following: 

Child-resistant properties

Smell-proof properties

Tamper-proof properties

Custom printing/finishes

Catch Us @ CannaCon

Want to hold and inspect our high-quality cannabis bags in person? Have questions about our customization process? Want to learn more about how our bags can help you meet certain regulations in your state? You can catch us at 2024 CannaCon, even if it’s just to say “hi!”

City

Date

Albuquerque

May 17, 2024 (10AM - 5PM)


May 18, 2024 (10AM - 5PM)

OKC

April 5, 2024 (10AM - 5PM)


April 6, 2024 (10AM - 5PM)

Rochester

June 20, 2024 (10AM - 5PM)


June 21, 2024 (10AM - 5PM)

ST. Paul

August 16, 2024 (10AM - 5PM)


August 17, 2024 (10AM - 5PM)

Cleveland

October 3, 2024 (10AM - 5PM)


October 4, 2024 (10AM - 5PM)

OKC

Booth: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 


April 5, 2024 (10AM - 5PM)
April 6, 2024 (10AM - 5PM)


Location: OKC Convention Center 100 Mick Cornett Drive, OKC 73109

Albuquerque

Booth: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 


May 17, 2024 (10AM - 5PM)
May 18, 2024 (10AM - 5PM)


Location: Albuquerque Convention Center 401 2nd St NW, Albuquerque

Rochester

Booth: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 


June 20, 2024 (10AM - 5PM)
June 21, 2024 (10AM - 5PM)


Location: Joseph A. Floreano Rochester Riverside Convention Center, 123 E Main St, Rochester, NY 14604

ST. Paul

Booth: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 


August 16, 2024 (10AM - 5PM)
August 17, 2024 (10AM - 5PM)


Location: Saint Paul River Center, 175 Kellogg Blvd, St. Paul, MN 55102

Cleveland

Booth: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 


October 3, 2024 (10AM - 5PM)
October 4, 2024 (10AM - 5PM)


Location: Huntington Convention Center, 300 Lakeside Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44113

Cannabis Packaging FAQs

Can you provide examples of other cannabis brands or similar products that have successfully used your flexible barrier pouches for compliance and branding purposes?

Yes, we will have examples available at CannaCon, and here are a few visual examples as well.

Can you provide information on the sustainability of your packaging materials and your commitment to environmentally friendly options?

We currently offer several compostable and recyclable materials. While these are great options, they do have less of a barrier. As such, we recommend using these materials for limited edition strains or smaller-batch products. 

What is the production lead time for your flexible barrier pouches?

CarePac offers a unique lead-time menu. Unlike some of our competitors, we offer total customization, from the size and material to the features included in your bag. As such, we have to plan our production more carefully than the companies that fit everyone into a few set sizes and use only one print method. Our fastest production lead time is 3 weeks.

Are your flexible barrier pouches suitable for different cannabis product formats, such as flower, edibles, concentrates, and pre-rolls?

Yes, we can create flexible barrier pouches for a variety of cannabis products, including edibles, flower, concentrates, pre-rolls, gummies, and beverages.


What innovations or special features do your pouches offer that could enhance the overall security and consumer experience of cannabis products?

One special feature that we can include on cannabis pouches that can help enhance security is holographic elements or QR codes. 

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Packaging Design

How to Find the PMS Code/Color – Step by Step Tutorial

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How to Find the PMS Code/Color
Step-by-Step Tutorial

Everyone knows Tiffany blue means diamonds, and McDonald's yellow means French fries. These brand colors are synonymous with the company's name and what they sell, which is no easy feat. If colors matter to a brand, making sure the colors are accurate when printing marketing and branding materials matters more. But, if you're reading this blog about Pantone color, we don't have to tell you this! 


In this blog, we'll walk you through how to easily find your Pantone color in Adobe Illustrator so you can effortlessly perfect and print your color choices for stunning designs on paper, plastic, or other materials. But first, we'll walk you through the background and basics of colors in Adobe Illustrator. 

Understanding Pantone Color

PMS is an acronym for "Pantone Matching System". As such, PMS colors are Pantone colors that can be specified for commercial printers. Pantone colors are custom-mixed ink colors that you can request for something like your logo, company name, or other branding asset. 

Just like a homeowner might select a Pantone color for their walls or custom couch, you can choose Pantone color group for your marketing materials using Pantone colors in Illustrator. 

Why? Well, accurate color representation matters in design almost more than the logo or "about the company" section on a package or pouch. Your customers see Pantone color before they see branding, and by using the Pantone color system to find the appropriate Pantone color number you can be sure you're using the right Pantone color. 

Understanding Pantone color
Pantone Connect

Pantone Connect

Pantone Connect is a new service from Pantone which combines a website app and an Adobe plugin to work with Pantone colors. 


If you are willing to pay the monthly fee for Pantone Connect, you can download and install the Pantone Connect plugin and access up to date colors using that plugin. 

Using Adobe Illustrator's color tools

Within the latest version of Adobe Illustrator, there are a variety of Pantone color tools that designers can use to choose colors and use them to create marketing materials. From swatches panel to the eyedropper tool, it can quickly get confusing! Here are just a few of the color tools you'll find within Adobe Illustrator, not all of which are directly related to Pantone colors:

Eyedropper Tool

By using the eyedropper tool in Adobe Illustrator menu, you can sample colors from anywhere in an image and add them to your swatches panel. This way, you can easily apply the sampled color to another object on the Illustrator canvas. 

Eyedropper-tool
Swatches panel

Swatches Panel

Also called the color panel, the swatches panel is where colors, tints, gradients, and patterns are stored. You can color mix and edit, or check if the color is safe for print in the swatches panel. 

Color Guide Panel

The Color Guide Panel generates a set of color swatches that go well with a base color that you define, also referred to as an "open swatch library". Think of the color guide panel as a color inspiration tool that you can use while you create or recolor artwork.

Color guide panel
Color Picker Dialogue Box

Color Picker Dialog Box 

This is where you fine-tune your choice of colors in Adobe. Here you can create a custom color by entering color values, or by choosing from a library of colors, or a swatch library. 

Now that you know more about the different Pantone color tools within the menu of Adobe Illustrator, we'll walk you through how to use the Pantone system color library using Illustrator. 

How to find PMS color in Illustrator

If you're using Adobe Illustrator, it's easy to find the PMS color of your logo. Just follow these steps, and you can easily apply the PMS color to other marketing materials. Here's how to find Pantone colors in Adobe programs:


  • Open the file and click on your logo using the "Direct Selection" tool in the drop down menu.
  • On the right side of the window, click on "Colors Panel".
  • After you find Pantone color or hue, it will be displayed on the overhead menu of the window. 

You can then use the search bar or pop up menu to recolor artwork or incorporate the Pantone panel of colors into your marketing materials using the recolor artwork tool. Just be sure to use the 'Save File' option so you can pick up your printed project at a different time in the future.

An important note about Pantone colors in Adobe Illustrator

Told you it's easy! One important thing to keep in mind: this tool will not show you the exact color of your logo, rather it'll show you the PMS color that most closely matches the color you're currently using in your logo. You can find the same colors in the preferred color mode your printer uses, whether that's the CMYK system or RGB. 


This is a great tool to use in Adobe Illustrator if you're looking for the closest PMS match, or if you're in the process of re-branding and want to switch your logo color to one that's part of the Pantone swatch panel or Pantone palette. 

important note about Pantone colors in Adobe Illustrator

Applying Pantone Colors to Your Design

So, now that you know what your Pantone color is, how should you apply Pantone swatches to your marketing materials? Well, that's purely up to you! Here are a few ideas on how to apply Pantone colors to your artwork: 

 

  • Incorporate your Pantone color into your logo image, or use it in lieu of a logo on your artwork or packaging.
  • Remember that certain CMYK, RGB, or Pantone colors mean certain things to customers. For example, green is often used for natural or healthy foods, while yellow is typically used for serotonin-inducing products.
  • Use colors to draw attention to the most important parts of your packaging.
  • Just remember: once you've confirmed your Pantone palette, make sure every member of your design team knows how to access the Pantone colors in Illustrator. This way, they can use the palette on your brand's artwork and printed materials.

Pantone Colors & Adobe Illustrator FAQs:

Here are some common questions we've received from customers about finding and using Pantone colors in Illustrator, whether it's being used on an image, a swatches panel, or in Pantone color books.


Can I use Pantone colors in all types of design projects?

Yes. The goal of using Pantone colors in graphic design is that it ensures consistent colors across all platforms. This way, your audience has the same impression of your brand, regardless of the specific asset, package, or marketing material they're looking at. 

Are there differences between PMS colors in print and digital design?

Yes, there are. One important thing to remember as you navigate Pantone colors in Illustrator is that digital printing devices can't reproduce Pantone colors; you'll have to first convert them to CMYK color mode.

How do I ensure accurate Pantone color reproduction across different printing methods?

The best way to ensure accurate PMS color reproduction across different printing methods is to convert them to the appropriate color group. This will be either CMYK or RGB codes. If your printer uses and prefers Pantone (PMS), you won't need to make any conversions. But if they prefer CMYK or RGB, you'll need to take the time to convert them to CMYK or RGB. 

CarePac: Your Partners in Packaging Design

At CarePac, we have decades of experience with packaging design and Illustrator. In fact, it's all we do! 

Our helpful CareDesign team is well versed in using the Pantone matching system to correlate your brand's colors to the colors in the Pantone palettes, and we're more than happy to help guide you through the matching system process. 

Whether you have a graphic design team or it's just you, we can help you create the packaging of your dreams. Connect with us today to discuss your project, or get an Instant Quote using our convenient online platform. 

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Specialty Coffee Expo Trusted Pouch Provider-  CarePac

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Specialty Coffee Expo 
Trusted Pouch Provider -  CarePac

Speciality Coffee Expo (SCE) is the largest tradeshow that’s focused exclusively on America’s favorite beverage -- coffee! As a coffee packaging provider, our favorite part of the event is the coffee design awards for branding and packaging, but we might be a little biased. 😉

If you have your eyes on that prize, connect with us at the event to discuss your coffee packaging needs. Unlike other coffee packaging providers, we allow for full customization, from the bag size and material to branding. We work with coffee companies of all sizes to help them craft an aesthetically pleasing bag that’ll keep their beans as fresh as the day they were roasted.

Why CarePac?

Because we’re awesome. In all seriousness, though, we pride ourselves on being a small, family-owned and operated business that takes packaging as seriously as you take coffee. We live and breathe packaging, and all our products are proudly made in the USA. We strive to make every customer a repeat customer, and you’ll notice this as our helpful CareDesign team guides you through the process.

And when we say we work with companies of all sizes, we mean it. In fact, we offer prototyping as few as 100 units! This allows coffee brands, like yours, to test new blends or offer seasonal flavors without having to invest your entire packaging budget into a single style of bag.

Why CarePac_expo

Types of Coffee Pouches We Offer

Although we offer hundreds of different bag variations, we do offer specialty pouches that are catered specifically to coffee brands. Here are a few of the packaging options we recommend for our roster of clients in the coffee industry: 

These bags have a square bottom, stand up on their own, and can be fully customized to represent your brand.

Although this is an older pouch configuration, it’s extremely popular in the coffee industry for its versatility.

These are four-corner bags that have two premade side gussets that provide reinforcement so your product stands tall on shelves. 

Other-Customization-Options

Other Customization Options

Let’s face it - the coffee industry is saturated with competition, and standing out often comes down to packaging. We offer a variety of customization options that can help take your packaging to the next level, including a variety of bag materials and finish options. Here are a few options to consider:

For the eco-conscious consumer who prefers to buy coffee in bulk, the zipper helps keep things fresh while the environmentally friendly material allows them to compost their bag when they’re done with it. 

Whether your target market is the commercial food industry or doomsday preppers, our line of vacuum seal bags will keep your coffee fresh for as long as possible. Bonus: opt for lay flat pouches for easy storage.

High-quality finishes like soft touch or metallic effects can encourage customers to pick up your product while browsing the crowded aisles at the grocery store. 

Catch Us @ Specialty Coffee Expo

Want to hold and inspect our high-quality bags in person? Have questions about our customization process? Just want to say “hi”? You can catch us at the 2024 Specialty Coffee Expo!

Coffee Pouch & Packaging FAQs  

Can you provide examples of custom pouch designs you’ve created for other brands?

Yes, we will have examples available at the SCE, and here are a few visual examples as well.

What materials do you recommend for preserving coffee freshness, and can you customize them for our specific needs?

Our CareSilver and CareFoil materials are our highest barrier materials, meaning they’ll really keep your coffee fresh. 

What is the typical lead time for designing and manufacturing custom coffee pouches?

CarePac offers a unique lead-time menu. Unlike some of our competitors (Roastar and ePac, to name two!), we offer total customization, from the size and material to the features included in your bag. As such, we have to plan our production more carefully than the companies that fit everyone into a few set sizes and use only one print method. Our fastest production lead time is 3 weeks.

Do you offer environmentally friendly packaging options, and are they suitable for coffee products?

Yes, we currently offer compostable and recyclable materials. While these are great options, they do have less of a barrier. As such, we recommend using these materials for small or seasonal batches.  

Can you accommodate various sizes and shapes to match our coffee product range?

Yep! When we say “total customization”, we mean it. Unlike other companies that force you to fit your product into their bags, we create bags specifically for your product. 

What printing and finishing options are available for customizing the appearance of our pouches?

Because we offer both plate and digital printing, we offer SO MANY finishing options, including glossy and matte. To learn more about our finishing options, check out our full range of options.

Do you have quality control measures in place to ensure consistent and durable pouches?

Yes. CarePac is ISO 9001:2015 certified, and we pride ourselves on adhering to these top management standards. 

Are there minimum order quantities or volume discounts for custom pouch orders?

CarePac offers prototyping from 100 bags, meaning you aren’t tied to printing bags in extremely high numbers. (

Will CarePac be attending Specialty Coffee Expo? If so, what booth?

...

Are your bags manufactured in the US?  

Yes, we’re extremely proud to be making pouches in the USA!

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Understanding Color Reproduction on Flexible Materials

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Understanding Color Reproduction
on Flexible Materials

Ink dynamics is the study of how a wider range of inks behave and interact with certain materials. It's an important consideration and essential tool for an infinite number of graphic designers and color reproduction/color management professionals around the world.  Since it directly impacts the quality of the final product, ensuring color accuracy and color temperature on the final product (after it has been printed) is essential.

Simply put, the visible spectrum of colors looks totally different in a digital image or color photography, on digital cameras, or on computer monitors than it does in real life, as things like reflected light, blue light, light sources (natural vs. fluorescent light) and exposure time can all impact how something looks. Spectral sensitivity and spectral power distribution can also impact the color balance in graphic arts. 

As such, the study of color reproduction, color temperature, and color rendering is an essential aspect of quality control. This is usually referred to, generally, as color management. 

The basics of ink dynamics

When it comes to ink dynamics and understanding its impact on color reproduction, there are a few different things to consider, including ink properties, interaction with flexible materials, and external and environmental factors that can influence ink behavior. We'll discuss each of these, and its impact on color perception and color rendition, below.

Ink properties

Ink is more than just ink: it's made up of pigments, resins, additives, and solvents. Each of these plays a critical role in determining how an ink dries on different materials and how it will display an entire range of color once dried. 

It's important to note that the human eye sees things different in real life than it does on different devices, like like a computer monitor, so understanding how to make an easy adjustment to account for this is key. 

Ink Properties in color reproduction
Interaction with flexible materials for color reproduction

Interaction with flexible materials

Different kinds of materials interact with inks different. For example, the color appearance of RGB values will look different on plastics as they do on foils
Additionally, extraneous factors, like porosity and chemical composition of the material will also impact its final color appearance. 

Factors influencing ink behavior

Finally, it's important to understand how different environmental factors (temperature, humidity, printing environment) can impact color perception. 

Color gamut mapping should take all of these into consideration, as red, green, and blue can all be impacted by a variety of environmental factors. 

Factors influencing ink behavior

An exploration of different printing methods  

There are a few different kinds of printing methods, each of which has a direct impact on color printing and color reproduction. Here's a quick breakdown of some common standard methods of printing, along with some advantages and limitations in terms of color reproduction. 

Digital printing

This type of printing uses a digital system and is best suited for customized or personalized products, and limited edition runs where cost and time are critical factors. Benefits include flexibility, speed (minimal set up time means you'll receive your packaging faster), and it's cost-effectiveness. 

Limitations include color matching (exact PMS color matching is better with the other two options on this list), and material limitations. Unfortunately, digital printing is difficult with very thick materials. 

Digital-printing-in-color-reproduction
Rotogravure & flexographic

Ideal for large-scale production runs where quality is the focus. These printing methods are typically used for products that require consistent branding and color accuracy over time and across batches, like the Tiffany Blue and McDonald's Red examples above. In these instances, the specific color must look the same across every type of marketing material or advertisement. 

This type of printing also results in ink layers that are thicker and more durable, extreme color consistency across RGB values, and exceptional print quality. The limitations are higher initial costs and less flexibility. 

Choosing the right printing method

In addition to light sources, color temperature, and how the RGB model or CMYK model looks when using different printing methods, here are some other things to consider: 

Run length

Here, you'll need to think about quantity. If you need a small supply of bags, digital is where it's at. Flexography is good for medium to large-sized runs, and rotogravure for extremely large runs where quality absolutely cannot be compromised. 

Run Length in color production
Cost in color reproduction

Cost

Upfront and ongoing costs should be considered. Choosing digital minimized upfront costs, while rotogravure is expensive initially but is more cost-effective at scale. Flexography is the middle ground. 

Quality requirements

What level of detail does your packaging need? How consistent does it need to be? While digital is the most cost-effective option, it is also less consistent.

Quality of colors in printing production
Time To MArket

Time to market

Do you need your packaging right away or can you afford to wait a bit? Digital printing allows for rapid prototyping, while rotogravure can take awhile to produce. 

Solid pigment inks: An exploration

Solid pigment inks are a type of ink characterized by their use of solid particles of pigment suspended in a binder. They are a popular choice for projects where color vibrancy and durability are important (such as in flexible packaging). Learn more about the advantages of using PMS colors with solid pigment inks. 

Advantages of using PMS colors with solid pigment inks

When discussing color reproduction, there are some benefits to using PMS colors. First, it's a standardized color palette, so your primary colors will look the same across different batches and printing methods. Second, solid pigment inks are incredibly vibrant and precise. 

If your brand has a distinct color vision and requires its colors to look the same across the color gamut, regardless of material, using PMS colors and solid pigment inks can help. 

Advantages Of PMS Colors
Challenges and things to consider

Challenges and things to consider

As with anything, there are some unique challenges and restrictions to keep in mind with PMS colors. First, they can increase the cost of printing especially for small runs. Next, PMS colors are not compatible with all materials. 

One additional consideration to keep in mind: some packaging providers offer eco-friendly inks that offer the same benefits of solid pigments while minimizing environmental impact. 

CarePac: Pushing the boundaries in flexible packaging

Can embossing and debossing be combined into a single design?

Yes! Debossing, embossing, or any combination of the two can be incorporated into your final print pieces. If you're hoping to save money, though, we recommend choosing one or the other. Since each process uses different settings of die presses, including both techniques into one package can quickly increase the price of your design. 

Is embossing and debossing suitable for all types of printing?

No -- ideally, embossing and debossing are reserved for paper and cardstock, and ideally the thicker the material the better. This printing technique should be avoided on thinner materials. 

How does embossing and debossing affect printing costs?

Of the two, debossing is the cheaper option because it only requires one plate rather than two. If you want your final print piece to have both embossed and debossed designs, this will be even more expensive than just opting for one. Additionally, if you choose to incorporate foil stamping into your final print piece, this will also impact the price. 

CarePac: Pushing the boundaries in flexible packaging

If color reproduction and color management across the material and color gamut sounds complicated, that's because it is. Fortunately, we're the experts and we're ready to help. 

Contact us today to discuss how we can leverage our expertise in ink dynamics and color reproduction to take your packaging to the next level. Together, we can create packaging that not only protects your product but exemplifies your brand. 

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