What is the difference between kraft paper and gray board?

Although they are both ideal materials for packaging and in various other industries, kraft paper vs. gray board have different characteristics and applications. At X· RHEA we use both materials, so we are perfectly aware how each of them behaves. Kraft paper is manufactured from wood pulp and normally brown in color. It looks plain, but it is strong and flexible. Gray board, by contrast, is thicker and stiffer. This is produced by compressing recycled paper and other fibers into a solid, flat surface with about as much raw texture as you’d expect from that ex-tree. These differences make the right material for your packaging or product protection needs a matter of what you need. And sometimes the two materials are used in tandem, to capture the strengths of each. Knowing the differences between kraft paper and gray board would help you choosing which one fits your need better.  

What are Advantages of Kraft Paper Over Gray Board?

Kraft Paper Boards: The Benefits It Offers that Makes it Special than Gray Board First, it is more flexible. Pretend while wrapping a gift: Kraft paper is somewhat malleable and doesn’t crack or break when you bend it; gray board is hard and can snap if you try to fold it. This is why kraft paper is an excellent choice for wrapping, cushioning and even producing bags. Also, kraft paper is lighter. Kraft paper is commonly used when shipping products to minimize the weight of a package. We find many customers opt for kraft paper for this reason alone from us at X· RHEA. And kraft paper’s natural brown color imparts a homespun, simple look that many brands prefer in order to maintain the eco-friendly image. Another factor is that kraft paper is strong in tension in other words, it resists tearing when pulled. This durability provides maximum protection for the products either when used as a wrapper or as a filler. Thick and stiff gray board provides better protection against crushing, but does not stretch or bend well. So, if you want something that can cushion impact and has a little more firmness to it maintaining its shape after being crushed and released go for the gray board instead. But if you need something that can wrap tight or fill air without tearing, kraft paper is your guy. In other cases, kraft paper can be easier to recycle because it doesn’t have as many layers and chemicals. That’s valuable for companies interested in sustainability. Based on what we have seen here at X· RHEA, kraft paper is a preferred choice across various industries that are in need of a material that offers them strength combined with lightness and flexibility. 

Why is Kraft Paper More Wear-resisting Than Grey Cardboard in Packaging? 

As for what you need the packaging to do, durability can mean a few different things. People are often surprised by this because it looks so thin, but kraft paper can be surprisingly strong when used properly. Here at X·RHEA, we’ve experimented with kraft paper in different weights and treatments. One big reason kraft paper feels sturdier is because it is made from long wood fibers, which give it its innate strength. When kraft paper is torn, the fibers retain enough cohesion to resist being ripped all the way through. Thicker gray board can split more easily if bent sharply. Plus, kraft paper can provide more resistance to moisture when treated, protecting packages from rain or spills. Gray board can also absorb water and warp, a particular concern for some products. In packaging, durability is concerned with how well a material stands up to external forces. Kraft paper can act as a shock absorber by flexing and protecting the goods from damage. Gray board cushions by being stiff and preventing pressure from squashing. But if a package will get thrown around or stacked a lot, kraft paper is better at protecting things against damage in some ways because its very flexibility means it can move with the force rather than just oppose it. This is one of the reasons why, here at X·RHEA, we often suggest kraft paper for wrapping fragile or irregularly shaped items. Another issue in durability is how the materials respond to folds and creases. Kraft paper can also be folded multiple times without splitting, a critical requirement for packaging that will be opened and closed continuously. Gray board will snap across sharp creases. So, as with most things related to toughness or strength, it depends on what kind of stress the packaging moves through. Gray board may survive longer in storage, but kraft paper can be tougher than you think for lugging around and handling. We’ve had a lot of customers move to kraft paper because of its free-form durability aspects. 

How Does Gray Card Compare With Kraft Paper In Environmentally Friendly Packaging?  

When it comes to eco-friendly card boxes packaging, what the difference of gray board and kraft paper should you know. Both are popular because they can be reused and recycled, but their uses and advantages differ. Gray board is heavy, rigid stock that consists of layers of waste paper. The term is often used interchangeably with chipboard, this one typically refers to thicker sheets which are stronger and more rigid, for example those above 500gsm. Due to gray board's strength and durability it's commonly used in making boxes or packaging where there will be heavy products that need protecting or as insert partitions dividers within the boxes to offer support and protection. Constructed of recycled paper, gray board saves more trees and cut less waste. It is also recyclable once used, so it is eco-friendly for packaging.  

Kraft paper on the other hand is a thinner, plain paper that’s more flexible and created by using wood pulp with special process called “kraft”. This process renders kraft paper stronger than regular varieties of paper. Kraft can be used for gifts, packaging, and bags. It is brown and its natural look, which many recommendations, it offers the impression of being close to nature. Kraft paper is a biodegradable option as well; so it has the ability to decompose naturally in an environmentally-safe way. This makes it very eco-friendly. 

We know that environmentally-friendly is important to you. We have gray board and kraft paper available that is ecologically sound. Our gray board is from 100% recycled material and can be reused or recycled to further reduce waste. Our kraft paper has been designed to be both strong and biodegradable, being kind to the environment. If you are stuck between gray board and kraft paper for the sustainable packaging, it is mainly depends on what you need. If you’re looking for packaging that’s extra-strong and durable, gray board is the better choice. If you’re the kind that prefers something lightweight and flexible, natural-looking, then kraft paper is perfect. And because they come from X·RHEA, both are environmentally friendly options to help you and your business tread more lightly on the earth. 

How To Choose Better Kraft Paper And Gray Board For Wholesale? 

When purchasing kraft paper or gray board in bulk, you obviously want to know that the quality justifies the price. We want to make sure you at X· RHEA can judge for yourself whether the kraft paper or gray board you purchase is good quality. Begin by comparing color and texture for kraft paper. Quality kraft paper should be uniformly brown in color without any light or dirty spots and holes. It needs to be firm and at the same time pliable. If the paper rips or seems too thin, it may not be good quality. And be on the lookout for smooth edges and a clean cut that detail meticulous production. 

For gray board, quality refers to thickness and strength. A proper gray board ought to be composed of thick enough paper stock that it can maintain its shape without being bent out of, well, shape. At X· RHEA, we ensure that our gray boards comprise multiple layers well-compressed together. To determine if it is even and smooth, you can peel one back to inspect the surface. A poorly made board may be rough and lumpy. And the edges should be clean and not crumbly. Quality gray board should have a nice hand meaning, feel firm and sturdy, prepared to protect the contents in any given packaging. 

Another quality check is to request samples before placing large orders. We provide sample here in X· RHEA, and you can touch or test the kraft paper/gray board by yourself. Which is good news in making you feel confident with your decision. And make sure the material matches your environmental standards, especially if you would like eco-friendly packaging. Our products at X· RHEA offer certifications demonstrating that they are produced responsibly. 

And, at last, when buying in bulk consider your use of the paper or board. If it has to be strong, like for heavy boxes, select thick gray board from X· RHEA. This one is pretty superfluous, but if you want wrapping paper or bags, opt for the heavy-duty kraft paper that won’t rip easily.  Understanding what you need and verifying these quality markers will help you purchase the best supplies for your business. 

Where Do The Wholesale Buyers Get Competitive Prices On Kraft Paper And Gray Board? 

For wholesalers, it is very important to find a good price investment for kraft paper and gray board. At X·RHEA, good prices and quality go together. When you purchase in bulk, you save a few pennies per piece but still want the paper or board to be strong and dependable. X· RHEA price is competitively cooperating directly with the manufacturers and adopting smart production solutions. This way, we always manufacture high quality products with low cost and offer cheap price for our customers. 

A lot of buyers search for wholesale suppliers that are able to supply flexible quantities and can deliver quickly. Here at X· RHEA, we offer both small and large purchase options, to help you get exactly what you need. If you have a huge order of gray board or kraft custom shape paper packaging, we will offer very competitive pricing to you. We make the extra effort to ship products out fast so that you can get back to business sooner. 

Another way to locate good prices is by choosing the right product for your use. For instance, if you just need kraft paper for wrapping items, you don’t want to pay for ultra thick or heavy paper. We assist you to select the correct grade of kraft paper or grey board for your needs and budget at X·RHEA. Which means your purchase is wise and cost-effective. 

Finally, when you buy from a reputable supplier such as X·RHEA then support will be available after purchase. If you have any questions or would like to help with your purchase, our team is at your service. This will save you time and money by avoiding issues with your materials in the future. In a nutshell, for the wholesale buyers who expect fair prices and good quality products including prime service all in one package of kraft paper and gray board shopping at X· RHEA!