Well Crafted: Analyzing Greater Baltimore Craft Beer Labels; A Content Analysis and Label Design Project

Abstract

Witty names, pop culture references, vibrant colors, intricate illustrations, tasteful typography, whimsical copy—craft breweries have distinguished themselves in the beer market through creative packaging and label design. When it comes to craft beer, what’s on the can or bottle matters as much as what’s inside. Craft beer labels are more than just utilitarian packaging—they are miniature canvases for storytelling and design that reflect a brewery’s personality, tone, and regional identity. A strong sense of place is central to the craft beer industry, with breweries anchoring their brands to local names, landmarks, geography, people, and historical elements. This study conducts a content analysis of craft beer packaging from Baltimore-based breweries to examine how they visually represent Baltimore and communicate their regional identity.