Kraft Paperboard: Natural, Recyclable Packaging Material

Kraft is an unbleached paperboard with a natural brown color and high tear strength – the material that signals an honest, eco-conscious brand. This article goes deeper on kraft as a material than our main packaging materials guide.

What is kraft paperboard?

Kraft is made by the kraft pulping process from long softwood fibers, which is what gives it its strength and signature brown tone. Because it is unbleached, it keeps a natural look, and it is often made with recycled content. It is both a box stock and a wrapping paper – see kraft boxes and kraft paper.

Strong and recyclable

Kraft has high tear and puncture resistance for its weight, and it is widely recyclable and often recycled-content – a big reason sustainable brands choose it. See our sustainable packaging guide.

How kraft prints

The brown base shifts printed colors, so kraft suits earthy, natural palettes rather than bright whites. White ink and bold single colors work well; full-color photos do not pop the way they do on SBS. That natural, slightly rustic print is exactly the appeal for artisan and clean brands.

When to choose kraft

Choose kraft for natural, organic, refill, and artisan positioning, or any brand that wants an eco signal. Choose white SBS when bright, photographic print is the priority.

Get kraft packaging

Tell us your product and brand look, and we will recommend a kraft stock and build a free dieline. Start with our materials guide, then request your free quote or contact our team.