What is Kraft Paper?

Kraft paper is everywhere in our daily lives, yet most people never stop to think about what it really is or why it matters.

Kraft paper is a durable, recyclable paper made from wood pulp through a chemical process that gives it high strength, making it ideal for packaging, wrapping, and industrial uses.

When I first started sourcing packaging solutions for my own business, I was surprised by how kraft paper was more than just brown wrapping paper. Let’s look deeper into what makes it so versatile.

What is kraft paper used for?

Kraft paper is often seen as simple, but it solves many problems for businesses and consumers who need strong, sustainable, and cost-effective materials.

Kraft paper is used for packaging, wrapping, shipping, insulation, crafts, and even food applications because of its durability, eco-friendliness, and ability to withstand stress without tearing easily.

Everyday and Industrial Uses

Kraft paper is popular because it has flexibility. In retail, stores use kraft bags for groceries and clothing. In shipping, companies rely on kraft rolls and sheets to wrap fragile items or fill empty box space. In food industries, kraft paper¹ often lines baskets or serves as food-safe wrappers, especially when treated to resist grease.

Eco-Friendly Advantage

Another big reason people choose kraft paper is that it is recyclable and biodegradable. Unlike plastics, it decomposes naturally, making it appealing for companies with sustainability goals. When I negotiated with buyers from the United States and Canada, many of them specifically requested eco-friendly packaging² to match their brand values. Kraft paper became an easy choice for them.

Table: Key Uses of Kraft Paper

What is a craft paper?

Many people confuse kraft paper with craft paper, and that creates misunderstandings, especially when suppliers and buyers talk about large-scale orders.

Craft paper refers to decorative or colored paper used for arts, crafts, and creative projects, while kraft paper is strong brown packaging paper used for wrapping and industrial purposes.

Breaking Down the Difference

Craft paper is usually thinner, smoother, and comes in many colors and patterns. It is perfect for DIY projects, school assignments, and card making. Kids and hobbyists love it because it is easy to cut, fold, and decorate. On the other hand, kraft paper is much thicker and coarser. Businesses use it when strength and reliability are more important than looks.

Real Business Example

When I dealt with trading companies in Australia, some buyers mistakenly asked for “craft paper” when they actually needed “kraft paper” for shipping boxes. After clarifying the difference, I helped them adjust their orders. This saved them from receiving the wrong product and facing shipping delays.

Table: Kraft vs Craft Paper

What is the difference between kraft paper and normal paper?

Most people assume all paper is the same until they hold kraft paper in their hands and feel its toughness compared to regular office sheets.

Kraft paper is stronger and more durable than normal paper because of its unique chemical pulping process, which removes lignin and preserves long fibers for maximum strength.

The Manufacturing Process

Normal paper, like printer sheets or notebooks, is made through a standard pulping method where wood pulp is bleached and processed into smooth, white sheets. Kraft paper is different. It goes through the kraft process, which uses sodium hydroxide and sodium sulfide to break down wood chips. This removes lignin, a component that weakens paper, and leaves behind long cellulose fibers. The result is a much tougher sheet of paper.

Practical Impact

This difference matters in real-world use. Normal paper tears easily, and it cannot handle heavy loads or rough handling. Kraft paper can be folded, crumpled, and wrapped tightly without losing structure. When we ship cardboard displays to Europe, we always wrap them in kraft paper for protection because it reduces transport damage.

Table: Kraft Paper vs Normal Paper

What is kraft paper insulation?

When people think of kraft paper, they rarely imagine it inside walls or ceilings, but it plays a big role in building construction.

Kraft paper insulation refers to fiberglass or mineral wool batts with kraft paper facing that acts as a vapor barrier, helping to control moisture and improve energy efficiency in buildings.

How It Works

In insulation, kraft paper is laminated onto fiberglass or mineral wool batts. This kraft facing serves as a vapor retarder. It helps control moisture from entering walls, which prevents mold and structural damage. Builders usually install the kraft side facing the inside of a room, and staples make it easy to secure in place.

Benefits in Construction

Kraft-faced insulation offers cost efficiency, simple installation, and better climate control. Homeowners benefit from reduced heating and cooling costs. For businesses that produce building materials, kraft paper plays an important role because it improves product performance without adding much cost.

Table: Features of Kraft Paper Insulation

Conclusion

Kraft paper is more than just brown paper; it is a durable, eco-friendly material with uses that range from packaging to construction.