While kraft paper has traditionally been used for crafts, school projects and even wrapping food, it’s becoming a more common fixture in the packaging world. A thick brown paper that’s also very sturdy, many businesses are now seeing the benefits of using kraft paper for packaging.
Here we outline some of the different types of kraft paper, their uses, and the types of kraft paper that we stock.
What is kraft paper?
As we’ve already alluded to, kraft paper is a strong brown paper that is excellent for paper packaging. Developed in 1879 by Carl F. Dahl, kraft paper was named after the German word kraft, meaning ‘strength’. Kraft paper is produced during the sulfate pulping process – the chemical conversion of wood into wood pulp. Natural kraft paper that isn’t bleached has a light brown colour while bleached kraft paper is white.
Out of all of the common packaging papers available, kraft paper is the strongest so it’s a great packaging solution, when strength is required. Things like supermarket bags, and even packaging paper all make great uses for kraft paper.
What are the benefits of using kraft paper?
One of the primary benefits of using kraft paper over other paper packaging products is its strength. Kraft paper is a highly durable material and doesn’t tear easily making it suitable for more industrial and heavy-duty applications. Many supermarkets and grocery stores offer kraft paper bags to customers for their shopping – these bags are less likely to rip under the weight of heavy food items.
As kraft paper is a paper, it’s also recyclable which is another great reason to use this paper packaging product in your business. The paper can be easily recycled in your customers’ home recycling bins but its strength means it can also be easily reused. Kraft paper is an excellent sustainable packaging option and a good alternative to traditional packaging items like plastic bags, plastic courier bags and even wrapping papers that are often lined with plastic.
Unlike many other types of paper, kraft paper can be made from all types of wood making it easy to manufacture. This can also help to bring down costs, which will save you money when purchasing this product (when compared to other types of packaging paper).
What are the different types of kraft paper?
Here in New Zealand we commonly see two types of kraft paper – natural kraft paper and recycled kraft paper. Here we explain the differences between the two.
Natural kraft paper
Natural kraft paper is not only durable, but affordable too. This kraft paper is often used for heavy-duty applications where maintaining tear resistance is important. This type of paper has the ability to be printed on making it a versatile option for businesses – leave it blank or print it with your logo and branding.
Natural kraft paper can be used for various applications like wrapping items and packages and carrier bags. Layers of this paper can also be used to make corrugated cardboard.
Recycled kraft paper
While recycled kraft paper isn’t as strong or durable as natural kraft paper, it’s an even more sustainable packaging option. Made from recycled materials, this paper will break down more easily, and is also more economical.
Recycled kraft paper is best used for bundling items, void filling packages and dunnage.
Kraft paper packaging products
Here we outline some of our popular kraft paper products and their benefits.
Heavy-duty kraft paper
Heavy-duty kraft paper is ideal for general packaging of heavy-duty products, and is available in four different sizes, at 165gsm thickness. This is an economic choice for wrapping material or void filling paper that’s 100% recyclable. This paper is easy to use with a wall or bench-mounted dispenser.
Find out more and order online >
General-purpose kraft paper
This general-purpose kraft paper is ideal for packaging light or heavy-duty products and can also be used as void filling paper. Choose from 60gsm, 80gsm, 120gsm or 200gsm paperweight. Another great environmentally-friendly choice as this kraft paper is also 100% recyclable.
Find out more and order online >
Paper twist handle bags
These paper bags are perfect for retail applications and are made from high-quality 100gsm kraft paper. 100% recyclable, these bags have a flat base, wide gussets and twisted paper handles. Sold in packs of 250, these are a great product to stock up on if you need a bulk supply.
Find out more and order online >
Dunnage bags
Dunnage bags are a great way to improve container load stability. Constructed from two layers of kraft paper these dunnage bags are durable and reusable. Simply inflate them and wedge them into your container between pallets to stop your goods from moving during transit.
Find out more and order online >
Kraft paper tape
Formulated with the framing industry in mind, this kraft paper tape is suitable for picture framing and a range of other applications. Fully recyclable, this tape is designed to stick to different types of cardboard and paper.
Find out more and order online >
So whether you’re looking to switch up your packaging supplies to more sustainable options or perhaps you’re looking to cut down on packaging costs, kraft paper could be a great paper packaging option that holds many different uses and benefits.
Learn more about the kraft paper packaging options we have available here.
