How Kraft paper went from meat wrapper to the world's most popular packaging

Kraft paper, also known as package (or wrap), has come a long way in terms of development and transformations since its invention. Despite its simplicity, it has become a truly versatile solution for hundreds of problems.

In the late 1800s, engineer Carl F. Dahl worked at a factory in Germany, conducting experiments to create new types of packaging. The existing materials at the time were not strong enough for use, and as a result, boxes were primarily made from fabrics and whalebone, which were not cheap options.

After testing several hypotheses, Dahl began to alter the chemical substances used in the production process. He discovered that by pulping wood chips into cellulose and treating one of the elements of the wood with sulfates, the final substance became stronger. This is how Kraft paper (On German meaning strength) came into being.

The new product became an economically efficient solution and quickly gained popularity. Initially, single-ply sheet coated with natural wax was used as wrapping for meat and other food products. However, through further experimentation, Dahl was able to produce a denser material later called cardboard. Compared to fabric cases, this was relatively cheap and practical.

What is it, characteristics and types?

It's a natural biodegradable material used in a wide range of industrial and commercial processes. Thanks to its “woody” structure, it is suitable for printing, painting, laminating, embossing, and similar decorating processes. There are several main types of it, distinguished by the source of the raw material and the finish:

  • Unbleached, uncoated wrapper: The simplest and most common type, it is resistant to tears and can be stiff without being heavy or rigid. It is characterized by the natural brownish color of weathered wood chips.
  • Coated: Brown material with a white chalk or limestone additive, giving it a uniform light color. It serves as the basis for full-color prints and has found widespread use in packaging.

Additionally, wrapping, and the cardboard produced from it, can vary in terms of the source of raw materials. They can be primary (made from wood pulp), recycled (used cardboard is processed, bleached, and turned into paper/cardboard again), or a combination of both (a mix of primary and secondary materials).

Advantages of pack

  1. Exceptional Durability: paper packaging is incredibly robust. It can be made from various wood species, including pine, bamboo, oak, maple, and even fallen leaves. This simplicity and variety of material options make production relatively straightforward and cost-effective, ultimately reducing costs for consumers.
  2. Unique and Stylish Design: Kraft cardboard has a natural texture and shades that give boxes a distinctive and organic appearance. This allows for creating stylish and eye-catching solutions that attract customers.
  3. Convenience and Versatility: Cases come in different shapes, sizes, and styles, making them suitable for various purposes, from wrapping holiday gifts to providing an attractive display for products on store shelves. Wrap packaging is widely available and easy to find.
  4. Custom Branding: cardboard is an ideal surface for logos and branding information. This enables companies to create a distinctive style and enhance their corporate identity.
  5. Variety of Shapes and Sizes. Paper boxes are available in various shapes and sizes, making it cost-effective to find the perfect packaging for any product. From small gift boxes to large Kraft boxes with windows, the possibilities are limited only by your imagination. They are suitable for a wide range of uses.
  6. Versatility of use. Kraft cardboard boxes are perfect for packaging a variety of products. They can be used for gifts, online retail products, as well as for food items or other goods.
  7. Additionally, paper is eco-friendly as it does not require additional bleaching agents, making it less harmful to the environment. Boxes made from recycled wrapper can be easily recycled again, making them an excellent choice for businesses aiming to reduce their carbon footprint.

All of these factors have contributed to the increased popularity of that packaging.

Cardboard cases represent a unique and environmentally friendly pack solution that stands out with its natural and stylish appearance. Its advantages include durability, unique design options, convenience, versatility, and eco-friendliness. Kraft paper packaging is a perfect blend of functionality and aesthetic appeal, making it an ideal choice for many businesses and consumers.

At our store, you can purchase custom Kraft boxes in bulk under order. We have been manufacturing cardboard pack for over 20 years and can provide hundreds of ready-made options for your business, or develop something new and unique to reflect your brand's character.

Proud of the reviews

5.0

Vladyslava Yarmoshenko

Very satisfied with the box. The quality is wonderful, the picture is also good, everything is of high quality! They did it very quickly, for which I am extremely grateful! I will apply again! Everything is great!

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5.0

Natalie Glyanenko

Thank you very much!!!❤️ Сdid everything in the best way, helped out a lot and suggested the best way☺️ There will be a reason, I will definitely apply again! The best!☺️

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FAQ

What types of cardboard boxes do you manufacture?
We produce various types of cardboard boxes – rectangular, cubes, postal, large format, round hat boxes, and more. We can also customize boxes according to specific customer needs.
Do you produce self-assembled boxes?
No, we do not manufacture self-assembled boxes. However, we can offer a wide range of ready-made and assembled packaging solutions.
What sizes of cardboard boxes are available?
We can manufacture cardboard boxes in various sizes – from small ones for small items to large boxes for bulky goods.
Can you print a logo or other information on cardboard boxes?
Yes, we can print a logo, company name, any artwork, or other information on the boxes. We use silk screen, offset, or digital printing (depending on the request) to ensure high-quality printing on our products.
What materials do you use?
We use a variety of laminated and craft cardboard, natural and partially synthetic fabrics, and various decorative elements. The box itself is made from environmentally friendly raw materials. We can add additional materials or accessories, depending on your needs, such as handles, foam or cardboard inserts, windows, plastic holders, and more.
What is the minimum order quantity?
We understand that personal and business needs can vary, so we try to accommodate even small orders. Typically, the minimum quantity depends on the size and complexity of the product, and we are willing to discuss this on an individual basis.
Is it possible to make a sample box for our order?
Our company produces packaging starting from 50 pieces, however, if needed, we can offer to produce a sample box in a single copy. The cost of such a sample is calculated individually and is slightly higher than for production batches due to technological aspects. The sample box is non-refundable and is not considered in serial production. Please, take this into account.
Once all details of the final product are agreed upon, we can start production of the required quantity of boxes.
If you want to ensure the quality of our products, you are welcome to visit our office and inspect ready samples of our products. Additionally, here you can immediately discuss all details with a manager – agree on materials, design, and directly place the order.
Can you produce 100 boxes in two to three days, and what does the production time depend on?
If you have an urgent order, we can expedite it, but you need to inform us by phone or email and coordinate it with our managers. If it's technically possible, we can produce your boxes within three days after approval. Please note that the standard production time is 10-14 working days after approval. This period depends on the quantity of boxes, their size, complexity, additional work required, and other factors. We usually provide a more precise estimate of production time when discussing the details of your order. We are always ready to help and provide guidance if any difficulties arise with your order. It's important to remember that an order is considered approved only after all print layouts, box sizes are finalized, and a prepayment is made.
I want to make a bank transfer for the order payment. What documents will you provide?
If you are paying for the order on behalf of a legal entity, you will need to provide us with the registration details of the future payer, and we will send you an invoice without VAT along with a shipping invoice. In turn, we will also provide you with documents related to the person who will be billed.
Is delivery to another city possible? What are the delivery times, minimum order, and transportation cost?
Yes, we work all over Ukraine. Our company is based in Kyiv, but we offer delivery through postal services such as “Nova Poshta” or “In Time”. The cost of transportation is not included in the price of the boxes and depends on the current rates of the chosen carrier. Boxes are packaged in film and corrugated cardboard to ensure maximum protection during transportation. Typically, delivery to major cities takes one day, while to small and medium-sized cities, it can take up to five days.
We can ship your order even if it consists of only one box, and the delivery cost will correspond to the courier service rates. On average, the cost of transporting one small box is 80 UAH, and for larger orders, it can be up to 2000 UAH. For large orders, we offer a special loyalty system. Don't worry; we will find the most convenient and affordable way to transport your beautiful boxes to you on time and at a reasonable cost!