Kraft Paper Packaging: Everything You Need to Know

When you hear "kraft paper," you might imagine your mom wrapping sandwiches or a crumpled sheet in an Amazon package. Yet, this unassuming brown paper holds more power than you'd think, doubling as cardboard and solving many business challenges.

Known by various names—brown paper, butcher paper, recycled wrapping paper, packing paper—kraft paper is a versatile ally for your business, offering benefits in security, branding, environmental impact, and cost savings.

In this piece, we'll delve into:

1. What exactly is kraft paper?
2. The fascinating process behind crafting this brown paper.
3. Elevating your branding with recycled paper.
4. The wonders of kraft paper in product packaging.

 

What is Kraft Paper?

 

A naturally biodegradable material, kraft paper finds its place in a multitude of industrial and commercial applications for packaging and protection. Its rustic appearance lends itself to diverse branding options, making it a natural choice for various businesses.

The name "kraft" originates from the German word meaning 'force' or 'strength.' And strength is precisely what defines this paper.

 

Crafting the Strength: How It's Made？

 

In the late 1800s, Engineer Carl F. Dahl revolutionized paper production. Faced with papers not sturdy enough for their purpose, Dahl altered the chemical composition of woodchips during the paper-making process.

The result? Kraft paper is aptly named for its inherent strength. Crushed woodchips, mixed with adhesive, underwent a transformative process with sulfates, giving birth to a robust material.

This newfound strength made kraft paper an instant hit in the packaging and food industries, earning the moniker 'butcher paper' after being coated in wax.

Brown Paper Types

Kraft paper comes in different forms, distinguished by the fibers used (virgin or recycled) and various finishes.

- Coated Unbleached Kraft Paper: The most basic, resistant to tears, and retains its natural brown color.

- Coated Kraft Paper: Brown paper with a white additive, creating a blank canvas for customization. Ideal for custom-printed boxes.

Virgin vs. Recycled Kraft

-Virgin Kraft Paper: Made from raw pulp, the strongest form used for structural integrity in items like corrugated mailer boxes and kraft packaging tape.

- Recycled Kraft Paper: Crafted from recycled materials, it is an eco-friendly choice for sustainable packaging in product boxes, paper bags, and paper cans.

Mixed Kraft Paper

A blend of virgin and recycled pulp, offering strength and ethical considerations. They are used in cardboard envelopes and postal boxes.

Benefits of Kraft Paper

The primary advantage lies in its exceptional strength, attributed to increased sulfur and reduced lignin content. This robust paper surpasses alternatives in durability and resistance to piercing.

Kraft paper's versatility extends to various wood types—pine, bamboo, oak—allowing for easy production and cost-effectiveness. Its natural color eliminates the need for bleaching, saving both money and environmental impact.

Get ready to uncover more about the wonders of kraft paper, its applications, and how it can redefine your packaging game in the sections to follow.