Color on Foil

See how CMYK colors transform on metallic substrates

Color Shift Comparison

Click a color chip to see how it appears on different substrates

Select a Color

CMYK Build

C: 0% M: 100% Y: 90% K: 0%

White Paper

Standard appearance

Gold Foil

Warmer, darker

Silver Foil

Cooler, darker

Why Colors Shift on Metallic Foil

The Substrate Isn't White

Unlike paper, metallic foil has its own color and reflectivity. Gold adds a warm yellow-orange undertone; silver is more neutral but still darker than white paper.

Ink Transparency Matters

CMYK inks are transparent. On white paper, light reflects off the surface. On foil, the metallic surface changes what light reflects back.

Design Tip

Embrace the shift. Choose colors that complement the foil's undertone, or increase ink saturation (up to 200%) to overpower it.