12 Different Types of Papers

Wondering what type of paper you should choose for packaging your products? Stop scrolling! This blog is all you need to select the right type of paper.

It is of paramount importance to select the right paper type. Because it affects the sturdiness, functionality, and customers’ perception of your brand. So choosing the right paper type is essential to win customers’ trust and ensure product safety.

This blog will discuss the 12 different types of paper used in the packaging and printing industry. We have shed light on each type of paper in detail, and by the end of the blog, you will know what paper is used for packaging boxes to serve different purposes.

So, without further ado, let’s start from scratch.

1. Kraft Paper

Kraft paper is a very popular type of packaging paper. The reason for its popularity is attributed to durability and strength. It is eco-friendly, easily recyclable, and biodegradable. Kraft paper is generally made from food pulp.

The thickness ranges between 0.05 mm and 0.30 mm. Its thickness depends on the packaging requirements. Meanwhile, the common weight ranges from 70 GSM to 200 GSM. Also, flexographic, screen, and digital printing work well with this paper.

Kraft paper is mainly used for wrapping and making packaging bags and Kraft paper boxes. Its natural brown color gives it a rustic appeal. This character grabs the attention of the customers who value sustainability. Thus, they immediately buy Kraft gift boxes for their products.

You can also show your commitment to the green environment by using Kraft paper. The material offers maximum protection to products. So they remain secure during transportation due to their sturdiness. This makes it an excellent wrapping paper for retail and shipping purposes.

2. Corrugated Paper

The corrugated paper actually consists of three layers. They include two flat layers and one fluted layer between them. That is why it offers remarkable strength. And it is ideal for protecting heavier items.

The thickness of corrugated board ranges from 1 mm to 5 mm. Its thickness depends on flute size. In addition, the weight typically lies between 200 GSM and 600 GSM. And the best printing methods for corrugated paper are flexography, direct box, and digital printing.

Corrugated material is highly recyclable. Therefore, it is widely reused in the packaging industry. It is also helpful for making shipping boxes and e-commerce packaging boxes. Plus, it greatly reduces the shipping cost because of its lightweight nature.

This paper is perfect to use for corrugated mailer boxes. Many e-commerce brands use it. So they ensure the safe arrival of their fragile products during transit. Additionally, it is also recyclable. Thus, it is a good choice for making eco friendly gift packaging.

3. Cardstock

Cardstock is one of the different paper types for packaging. It offers a premium feel. Therefore, it is is studier and thicker than normal printer paper. Cardboard material is made recycle paper. Furthermore, it has a smooth finish. This is the reason it is perfect for getting high-quality printing results.

Its thickness usually ranges from 0.18 mm to 0.45 mm. And the weight ranges between 150 GSM and 350 GSM. This paper supports offset, digital, and UV printing. These high-end printing techniques create high-resolution printing results.

What’s more? Cardstock paper is recyclable. It is often produced using recycled fibers. Plus, it is mostly used for making high-quality cosmetic boxes, business cards, and greeting cards. It provides a perfectly elegant look for premium products.

Plus, cardstock has a smooth surface compared to construction paper. That is why it is easy to print and best to use where sophistication is top priority.

4. Coated Paper

Coated paper offers a matte or glossy finish. It is perfect for creating high-quality visuals for product marketing. Mostly, it is perfect for labels and brochures. The thickness of the coated paper varies from 0.07 mm to 0.30 mm. Typically, its weight ranges from 90 GSM to 250 GSM.

It is among various types of paper that support digital, offset, and UV printing. No doubt coated papers are recyclable, but they may require additional processing during recycling.

It is one of the types of paper used in packaging. The paper acts as a shield against the moisture. Therefore, it ensures your packaging remains stunning even over time. Many brands in the cosmetic and food industry use coated papers in their packaging. So they effectively communicate their message to their target audience. Also, unlike uncoated paper, it helps them to stand out in the hypercompetitive market.

5. Paperboard

Paperboard vs cardstock is thicker and lighter. That is why it is suitable for various packaging solutions. It is usually used to make cereal, cosmetics, and food packaging boxes.

Its thickness lies between 0.3 mm and 0.8 mm. If we talk about weight, it ranges from 200 GSM to 400 GSM. Moreover, paperboard supports offset, digital, and flexography printing. And most of the paperboard materials are recyclable as well as biodegradable.

The best part? Paperboard material offers great branding opportunities. You can easily print it and design it into multiple different shapes. Its lightness makes it perfect for shipping due to lower costs. Many brands use it for custom product boxes for its sturdiness and versatility. It is also a perfect option for gift wrapping paper.

6. Recycled Paper

Among the different types of paper, one is recycled paper. Its importance and demand have increased in recent years. Because my customers now want eco friendly packaging alternatives. It helps brands to align their packaging with sustainable practices. Like other types of paper, recycled paper is also used for making bags and retail packaging boxes.

Its thickness ranges from 0.06 mm to 0.25 mm. On the other hand, its weight ranges between 70 GSM and 200 GSM. Like virgin paper, it supports offset and digital printing. The cherry on the top is that it reduces landfill waste, saves water and energy, and decreases deforestation.

Recycled paper provides the same quality as virgin paper. It's a perfect packaging solution for eco-conscious brands. It helps you to uplift your brand image in the competitive market. These features make it perfect to use for CBD boxes.

7. Specialty Paper

Specialty paper is a uniquely designed paper made for special purposes, such as tear and water resistance. This abrasive paper ranges from 0.05 mm to 0.40 mm in thickness. They range from 80 GSM to 350 GSM in weight.

The most interesting part? Specialty paper supports advanced printing methods such as embossing and foil stamping. Also, the environmental effects of these papers depend on the additives used during manufacturing.

This type of paper is perfect to use for limited edition products and premium gifts. It helps you to outshine your competitors in the crowded market. Besides, this paper also adds a luxurious feel to your packaging. So it also improves customers’ perception of your brand. Many brands also use specialty papers along with magnetic closure boxes to increase the perceived value.

8. Parchment Paper

Another type of paper is parchment paper. This thin paper is also known as baking paper that is used in the kitchen. Parchment paper usually has a varying thickness that ranges from 0.03 mm to 0.10 mm. The paper sizes also vary, as well as the weight. Usually, its weight ranges from 40 GSM to 90 GSM. You can also print this paper using flexographic or food-safe ink printing. This paper also offers moderate sustainability benefits. For example, it is biodegradable under proper conditions.

It is also made from natural cellulose fibers coated with silicon. So it is grease-proof, heat-resistant, and water-resistant. It has a non-stick surface that is good for rolling out dough. Because it prevents food from sticking to the countertop. You can use custom parchment paper for many purposes such as lining baking sheets, food preparation, wrapping meat or fish for steaming.

9. Printer Paper

Printer paper is one of the most useful types of paper for printing. It is used in printers. This printing paper is available in different weights for different printing techniques. It has a varying thickness ranging from 0.08 mm to 0.12 mm.

However, its common weights range between 80 GSM and 120 GSM. In addition, it supports laser, inkjet, and digital printing. The best thing? Most printer papers are easy to recycle. Because they are made using sustainable paper sources.

These printer papers have no direct use in packaging. But you can easily print these papers with branding elements to promote your brand within your packaging. You can easily upgrade your marketing presentation by choosing the right printer paper.

10. Matte Paper 

Matte paper has a smooth, non-reflective, or textured surface. This textured paper diffuses light, which reduces glare. So it creates a soft visual impression. If you are looking for a premium and sophisticated presentation, matte paper is the best choice.

The thickness of matte paper varies from 0.08 mm to 0.25 mm. Plus, its weight lies in the range of 100 GSM to 300 GSM. Heavy matte sheets are used for manufacturing premium cartons and packaging sleeves.

Matte paper supports offset, digital, and UV printing. Also, this paper is recyclable in most recycling streams. It is usually obtained from wood pulp fibers. Its coating might slightly affect its recyclability. You can also use this paper along with rigid boxes to create an elegant look.

11. Glossy Paper 

Glossy paper is a shiny, coated paper. Its reflective surface prevents inks from absorbing deeply into fibers. The thickness of glossy paper varies from 0.08 mm to 0.30 mm. It mainly depends on the paper folds, coating layer, and fiber composition. Typically, the weight of the glossy sheets ranges from 115 GSM to 300 GSM.

Glossy paper supports offset, digital, and photo printing. In addition, you can recycle this paper. However, additional coatings may require some extra recycling processes. You can use the glossy paper for product brochures, labels, sleeves, promotional inserts, and glossy booklets.

This paper increases color vibrancy. It also enhances photo clarity and levels up the visual appeal of your products. However, this type of paper can create glare under strong light conditions. So it can reduce the readability for heavy text designs.

12. Construction Paper

It is among the various types of textured and colorful papers. This is widely used for crafts and arts. The craft paper is typically used in commercial packaging. But it has some other purposes too. It finds its use in DIY packaging, decorative projects, and creative designs.

Craft paper typically ranges between 0.15 mm and 0.35 mm. It depends on the manufacturer and intended craft application. The common weight ranges from 120 GSM to 200 GSM. It is sufficiently strong for crafting, cutting, and folding.

Construction paper supports digital, inkjet, and screen printing. The surprising part? It is mostly recyclable in the standard paper recycling stream. Also, it is biodegradable under natural conditions. It is available in many colors and textures. So, it is perfect for decorative packaging designs.

Summing Up

We have discussed above the different types of paper that are helpful for the packaging and printing purposes. Choosing the right type of custom packaging is essential for your brand’s success. Whenever you are choosing any type of paper, it is essential to consider its weight, thickness, printing options, and environmental impact.

Heavier and stronger papers are good options for fragile products. Looking for the best quality packaging and printing papers at affordable rates? Look no further than Shop Rigid Boxes. We have a variety of printing and packaging papers in varying thickness and specifications. The most amazing part? We offer discounts when you order these papers in bulk. So you can get in touch with us right now to get amazing offers at wholesale rates for different types of papers right away.