Kraft Paper
Kraft paper is made from chemical pulp produced by the kraft process, which retains the long, strong wood fibers that give this paper its distinctive toughness. The name comes from the German word for “strength,” and strength is exactly what defines this material. Kraft paper resists tearing, puncturing, and moisture better than most other paper stocks, making it a natural choice for packaging, bags, and wrapping applications where durability matters.
We offer kraft paper in two varieties: brown kraft (the classic, natural, unbleached look) and white kraft (bleached to a clean white surface while retaining the same structural strength). Both are available in weights ranging from 100 to 400 gsm, covering everything from lightweight wrapping and lining to heavy-duty box construction.
Available Weights
| Weight | Approx. lb | Brown | White | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 100 gsm | 68 lb text | ✓ | ✓ | Lightweight wrapping, labels, belly bands |
| 120 gsm | 81 lb text | ✓ | ✓ | Rigid box wrapping, end sheets, hardcovers wrapping |
| 150 gsm | 101 lb text | ✓ | ✓ | Envelopes, smaller bags |
| 180 gsm | 122 lb text | ✓ | ✓ | Shopping bags, sleeves, belly bands |
| 250 gsm | 92 lb cover | ✓ | ✓ | Folding cartons, lightweight boxes |
| 300 gsm | 110 lb cover | ✓ | ✓ | Standard folding cartons, tags |
| 350 gsm | 129 lb cover | ✓ | ✓ | Rigid cartons, thick tags, cards |
| 400 gsm | 148 lb cover | ✓ | ✓ | Heavy-duty packaging, structural boxes |
Brown Kraft vs. White Kraft
Brown Kraft Paper
Brown kraft is the unbleached, natural-colored version. Its warm, earthy tone has become closely associated with eco-friendly, organic, and artisanal branding. Many consumers now associate brown kraft packaging with sustainability and authenticity, which makes it a powerful material choice for brands that want to communicate those values.
Because brown kraft has a dark, non-white surface, printing on it requires special consideration:
- UV printing with white ink base + CMYK: For full-color artwork on brown kraft, a layer of opaque white ink is printed first to create a neutral base, then CMYK is printed on top. Without the white base, all colors will be influenced by the brown background and appear darker and muddier than intended.
- Silk screen printing: Screen printing deposits a thick, opaque ink layer that covers the brown surface effectively. Well suited for large text, logos, and bold graphic elements.
- Foil stamping: Metallic foil (gold, silver, copper) on brown kraft is a classic, high-end combination. The warm paper tone paired with metallic accents creates a natural yet premium look.
- Simple black printing: Black ink prints well directly on brown kraft without a white base. Single-color designs, text, line art, and barcodes all read clearly against the brown surface.
White Kraft Paper
White kraft is bleached to a clean white surface, which means it behaves like standard white paper for printing purposes. CMYK offset printing produces accurate, vibrant color on white kraft without the need for a white ink base. White kraft retains the same tear resistance and structural strength as brown kraft, so you get the durability of kraft with the printing flexibility of white paper.
Common Applications
- Kraft boxes (folding cartons): the most common use for kraft paper. Brown kraft cartons are popular for food, cosmetics, handmade goods, and eco-conscious brands. White kraft cartons are used where clean, printed branding is needed.
- Paper bags: retail shopping bags, food takeaway bags, and gift bags. Kraft paper’s tear resistance makes it the standard material for bags that need to carry weight.
- Rigid box wrapping: kraft paper (brown or white) wrapped on grayboard creates a natural, understated look for premium packaging. Often paired with foil stamping or debossing.
- Mailer boxes: brown kraft is the default material for e-commerce mailers, combining a clean look with structural strength for shipping.
- Book covers and end sheets: kraft paper can be used as hardcover wrap material or as decorative end sheets for a natural, artisan aesthetic.
- Labels and belly bands: kraft paper labels and belly bands add an organic, handmade feel to jars, bottles, and boxed products.
Kraft Paper and Sustainability
Kraft paper is one of the most recyclable and biodegradable packaging materials available. Brown kraft in particular uses minimal chemical processing compared to bleached white papers, which gives it a lower environmental footprint. For brands that prioritize sustainability messaging, kraft packaging communicates that commitment visually and materially. FSC-certified kraft paper is available on request for projects that require documented responsible sourcing.
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