How Kraft Paper Is Made

Ok, here’s the science-y bit. First and foremost, kraft paper, just like most of our other paper types, is made from wood. The term "Kraft" describes the process of turning wood into wood pulp, essentially by pressure-cooking softwood chips in a mixture of strong alkaline chemicals. These chemicals, notably sodium hydroxide and sodium sulfide (do not drink!), separate the cellulose (which is useful) and lignin (not so useful) that make up the wood fibers.

If you liken it to when you make instant noodles, at first, the noodles are hard and packed tightly together, just like the wood. As you apply hot water, the noodles become soft and separate. That's kind of what happens here but on a microscopic level.

This kraft paper slurry is then refined, washed, and formed through huge, pressurized rollers. As the kraft paper gets drawn out and dried, it is stored on colossal rolls, ready for cutting down. At this point, we have a light-brown cellulose pulp with interlocking fibers, otherwise known as brown kraft paper.

While most kraft paper is known for its natural brown color, it can also be bleached to produce a lighter or white version. This bleaching process uses additional chemicals to remove the natural pigments in the wood pulp. However, this step weakens the overall structure of the paper, making it less durable than its unbleached counterpart.

Brown kraft paper stock is often preferred for its strength and eco-friendliness, while white kraft paper is chosen for its clean, polished appearance in applications like food-grade packaging or branded shopping bags.

Did you know that brown kraft paper is not only 100% recyclable but also a superstar in the world of eco-friendly materials? It’s no wonder it’s become such a popular choice in these times of environmental awareness. As we all grow more mindful of our environmental impact, switching to sustainable options—like trading plastic bags for paper ones—has never been more important.

Kraft paper starts its life as wood, but its journey doesn’t end there. Once used, kraft paper can be recycled, broken down into pulp, and transformed into a fresh new roll of paper. In fact, most kraft paper today is made from a blend of recycled and raw materials, giving it a second (or even third!) life.

Fun fact: kraft paper can be recycled up to seven times before its fibers become too short to reuse… Now that’s impressive!

The recycling process for kraft paper is surprisingly like its original production but with an even greener twist—it uses fewer chemicals and is much gentler on the environment, like many of our eco-friendly printing options. This makes kraft paper not just a durable and versatile material but also a champion for sustainability. So, the next time you wrap a gift or pack a box with kraft paper, you can feel good knowing you’re making an eco-conscious choice!

Kraft and recycled paper can often be one and the same. As we've mentioned, Kraft paper can be made with 100% recycled kraft paper. So, it is a type of recycled paper. However, there are some key differences to keep in mind.

Recycled paper is made by repurposing wastepaper products, which are sorted, cleaned, and processed into new paper sheets. The main distinction lies in the bleaching process. Most recycled paper is bleached to remove inks, dyes, and other impurities, while kraft paper is left in its natural, unbleached state.

This means that kraft is generally stronger and more durable than recycled paper, which can lose some of its structural integrity during the recycling process.

Absolutely you can! But there are a few things that should be considered before setting your heart on Kraft.

When printing on Kraft paper, it’s best to keep designs simple and bold. The natural texture and earthy tone of the paper can make intricate patterns or fine details harder to reproduce clearly. Opt for bold lines and minimal colors to ensure your design stands out.

Dark and rich colors, such as black, navy, or deep green, work particularly well, creating a strong contrast against the brown background. These shades not only complement the rustic charm of Kraft paper but also ensure your design remains sharp and legible.

Lighter or pastel colors, on the other hand, tend to blend into the brown surface and may not be as visible. If you’re aiming for a more natural or organic look, earthy tones can be a great choice, as they harmonize beautifully with the paper’s raw, unbleached aesthetic.

By carefully selecting your colors and keeping your design straightforward, you can create stunning prints that highlight the unique appeal of Kraft paper.

Kraft does have a very unique characteristic, specifically, that something that is essentially a by-product has won the hearts and minds of individuals and businesses all over the world. Its charming qualities make kraft paper more advantageous to creativity than colorful, textured paper.

But its popularity also stems from its practicality. It’s strong, affordable, and eco-friendly. In a world where sustainability is becoming increasingly important, kraft paper checks all the right boxes. It’s a material that combines function with style, making it a favorite for both businesses and individuals.

As magnificent as we may think Kraft paper is, we understand that it might not be the perfect fit for everyone. While it brings a rustic and natural appeal, preferences and project needs can vary. That’s why, here at Aura Print, we take pride in offering a diverse range of paper types that not only exude charm and personality but also align with our commitment to minimizing environmental impact.

From the timeless appeal of recycled papers, which breathe new life into previously used materials, to the luxurious feel of rag and cotton papers, we’ve curated a selection to meet a variety of tastes and sustainability goals. For those looking for something truly unique, we even offer innovative options like cannabis paper, made from sustainable fibres, and wheat paper, which brings a subtle organic texture to your designs.

Each of these papers possesses its own distinctive textures, visible character, and eco-friendly qualities, making them ideal for creating prints that are as visually stunning as they are kind to the planet. Whether you're aiming for a natural, earthy aesthetic or something with a touch of elegance, our collection ensures that you can not only achieve your creative vision but also contribute to a more sustainable future with Aura Print.

At Aura Print, we believe that beautiful design should never come at the cost of the environment, and with our wide selection of eco-conscious papers, you can truly have the best of both worlds.

Kraft paper is like the Swiss Army knife of the paper world—versatile, reliable, and always up for the challenge! To get the most out of it, start thinking beyond the basics. Sure, it’s fantastic for wrapping parcels or packing up goodies, but have you ever considered its potential for crafting kraft flyers for your business or creating eco-friendly, kraft paper greeting cards?

Kraft paper is your charming blank canvas waiting to be transformed. And let’s not forget its practical uses! The beauty of kraft paper lies in its simplicity and strength—it’s tough enough to withstand a lot, yet flexible enough to shape into whatever you need it to be. Plus, knowing that it’s eco-friendly and recyclable makes every use feel like a small win for the planet.

So, when you’re getting creative, kraft paper has your back. It’s simple, sustainable, and surprisingly stylish—proof that sometimes, the most unassuming materials can make a bold impact.

Give it a go, and you might just find yourself looking at this unsung hero of paper in a whole new light!