Color and Contrast in Foil Finishes: How to Choose the Right Combinations

Because of their unique luster, it’s easy to get tripped up wondering which luxury foil finish color to choose for your print project. But for the most part, the same general rules that guide standard ink color selection apply to the use of foils. So, to help you select the best foil colors to compliment your work, we’ve pulled together these easy-to-follow tips. Read on to learn how to create strong color contrast and messaging with your foil selection, and why it’s so important for effective print design.

Understanding Color Theory

The term Color Theory refers to the study of colors and how they interact with one another. It has led to the popular use of tools like color wheels. It has also helped us develop our modern understanding of how value (lightness), chroma (saturation), and hue all play a role in how colors are perceived.

There have been many, many books written on this subject, with many different conclusions drawn. But to keep things simple, we’re going to focus on just the basic elements of color theory. These ‘rules’ reliably lead to visually appealing and easily understood graphic design. With more experience, graphic designers learn to bend and even break these rules while still creating beautiful results. However, for those just starting out or looking for the easiest path to success, these are the guidelines to follow.

Contrast = Clarity

To make sure your foil details are easily understood and have the strongest visual impact, they should contrast strongly against the background color. Think yellow gold on a dark navy-blue background, or deep metallic red on an off-white background. When in doubt, it’s usually a safe bet to opt for strong contrast with your colors.

Warm vs. Cool

Understanding warm vs. cool tones can help you ensure you’re setting the right mood with your color choices. When a color has more yellow in it, it’s considered warmer, and when it has more blue in it, it’s considered cold. Any color can be warmer or cooler, depending on how much it leans towards yellow or blue. Generally, warmer colors are considered more energizing and lively, while cooler colors are considered more calming and sophisticated.

Colors Have Meaning

Depending on the cultural background and environment of the viewer, different colors can have strong symbolic or emotional associations. For example, in India, red can be strongly associated with weddings, while for some residents of former Eastern Bloc countries it’s still primarily associated with communism. When choosing your colors, considering your audience and their color associations will help you make a smart selection.

Choosing the Right Foil Colors

Of course, for commercial printing, general color theory tips will only get you so far. Brand identity is king, and when you’re making foil color selections, they must suit your brand. This may mean simply opting for custom colored foil that matches those colors. However, choosing a traditional metallic color to contrast your brand colors can also be a smart design choice, particularly if you want your design to evoke a sense of luxury or prestige.

To ensure your metallic foil color has the best possible contrast with your brand colors, you’ll need to work with the right print partner. Some printers only offer limited color ranges, restricting your design options. Look instead for a partner like Wallace Carlson, which can print hundreds of different foil colors. With 50 shades of gold alone, you’re guaranteed to find a foil in the perfect temperature, contrast, and shade for every design.

Interested in seeing just how many foil options Wallace Carlson has to offer? We’d love to show you more! All it takes is getting in touch with our team.

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