Natural Brown Kraft
Unbleached kraft with a natural brown color, commonly used for eco-friendly and organic product packaging.
Unbleached / Natural Kraft Paperboard
A durable, eco-friendly paperboard made from a mix of virgin and recycled pulp, natural kraft paperboard is known for its natural appearance, strength, and sustainability. It is widely used in packaging for brands that prioritize environmentally responsible materials without compromising performance.
Thickness
12pt – 28pt
Range
250 – 527GSM
Density
Moderate to high density
What is Unbleached / Natural Kraft Paperboard
Unbleached kraft paperboard is produced using a combination of virgin and recycled paper pulp without the use of bleaching chemicals, resulting in its signature brown color and environmentally friendly properties. The absence of chemical processing not only enhances recyclability but also preserves the natural strength of the fibers. This results in a durable kraft paperboard with excellent tear resistance. This material is commonly chosen for brands that want to highlight sustainability while maintaining reliable packaging performance. It also supports various printing methods, although colors tend to appear more muted due to its natural surface.
Best Used For: Folding Cartons, Eco-Friendly Packaging, Retail Boxes, Subscription Packaging, Rigid Box Wrapping
How Kraft Paperboard Differs from Other Boards
- Naturally brown due to no bleaching or chemical treatment
- Higher tear resistance and durability compared to standard paperboard
- More eco-friendly with high recycled content (up to 100%)
- Colors printed appear softer or muted on the surface
- Does not have the ultra-smooth finish of SBS paperboard
- Offers a natural, organic look preferred by eco-conscious brands
Kraft Paperboard Thickness Guide
Kraft paperboard is available in multiple thickness levels to support different packaging needs, from lightweight retail cartons to more durable box structures.
Lightweight
0.4 – 0.5 mm
250 – 275 GSM
Standard
0.5 – 0.7 mm
300 – 350 GSM
Heavy Duty
0.7 – 1.0 mm+
350 – 400+ GSM
| Feature | What It Means | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| GSM | Measures the weight and thickness of the board | Higher GSM = Stronger and more durable packaging |
| Density | Indicates how tightly fibers are packed | Higher density = Better structural integrity |
| Surface | Natural, slightly rough texture | Creates an organic look but softens printed colors |
| Composition | Mix of virgin and recycled pulp | Enhances sustainability and recyclability |
Types of Kraft Paperboard
White Kraft
Bleached kraft paperboard that provides a smoother, cleaner surface for enhanced print quality and vibrant designs.
Black Kraft
Dyed kraft paperboard offering a bold, premium appearance, often used for luxury or high-contrast packaging designs.
Natural Brown vs White vs Black Kraft Paperboard
Understanding the differences between kraft paperboard types helps in selecting the right material based on branding, printing needs, and product positioning.
| Feature | Natural Brown Kraft | White Kraft | Black Kraft |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base Material | Unbleached kraft pulp | Bleached kraft pulp | Dyed kraft pulp |
| Color | Natural brown | White | Deep black |
| Surface Finish | Slightly rough, organic | Smoother and cleaner | Smooth, dyed surface |
| Print Quality | Muted, earthy tones | Bright and vibrant colors | High contrast, bold designs |
| Eco-Friendliness | Highest (no bleaching) | Moderate (bleaching involved) | Moderate (dye added) |
| Appearance | Natural, rustic look | Clean, premium look | Luxury, modern look |
| Cost | Most economical | Slightly higher | Premium |
| Best Use | Organic / handmade products | Retail-ready packaging | Luxury / high-end branding |
Applications
Explore how kraft paperboard supports sustainable branding and durable packaging across a wide range of industries.
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FAQs
Kraft paperboard is a strong, durable material made from virgin and recycled wood pulp. It is known for its natural appearance, high tear resistance, and eco-friendly properties.