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françaisPrinting Techniques for Kraft Packaging
Printing designs and colors onto kraft paper boxes is possible with most modern printing machinery and techniques. However, due to the thickness of the kraft material, inkjet and laser printers may not be the most suitable. The quality of the final print will depend largely on the printing material, so it's important to assess its surface and physical properties, including performance, absorption, and optical characteristics. Many printing companies use various techniques to achieve the desired colors and designs on kraft paper boxes. The most common printing techniques used for kraft paper boxes packaging include:
1. Flexography
Flexography is a popular printing technique used on kraft boxes, including stand-up pouches, and can also be used for corrugated boards. Instead of plates, it uses light-sensitive polymer to print on kraft cardboard. Modern flexography machines often have built-in capabilities for die-cutting and lamination, simplifying the process for laminating or cutting kraft boards. However, it's important to note that these additional services may come at an extra cost due to the thickness of the material.
2. Offset Printing
Offset printing, also known as offset lithography, is a widely used printing method that is effective on kraft packaging. This technique involves transferring an inked image from printing plates onto a rubber blanket before printing it onto the kraft material. The printing plates can be made from zinc or aluminum. Oil-based inks are used for this method, as they are well-suited for highly absorbent kraft materials. Full-color designs can be achieved using oil-based colors.
Inks for Printing on Kraft Paper
To achieve the desired colors on custom kraft boxes, it is important to consider the type and quality of the kraft board being used. As a textured and absorbent material, kraft tends to soak up ink, affecting the colors of the final product. Additionally, since kraft is inherently darker in color than regular paper, some inks may appear more muted on the brown paper.
It is generally recommended to avoid light colors such as yellow, cream, and light pink, as these colors won't show up well on kraft material and may lose saturation or intensity once printed due to the absorbent nature of the material. It is important to note that colors may appear differently on kraft paper or board.
For best results, consider using bold, darker colors such as navy, red, or forest green. These colors tend to stand out well on kraft material and can create a striking contrast with the natural brown color of the paper.
1. Black
When printing on kraft paper, it's important to note that all colors may appear slightly muted due to the absorbent nature of the material. However, black is less likely to be affected by the natural color of kraft paper, making it a good choice for printing on this material.
2. Darker Tones
In addition to black, bold colors such as blues, purples, and greens can also create a striking contrast against the natural brown color of kraft packaging. Their high saturation and deep hues will appear crisp and eye-catching.
3. Neon Inks
In contrast, neon and fluorescent inks have a thicker consistency that causes them to sit on top of the kraft board rather than being absorbed into it. As a result, these colors tend to maintain their vibrancy when printed on kraft board.
4. White Ink
Using white ink is a great choice when printing on kraft paper. It provides a bright and vivid appearance that can grab the attention of your target audience, giving your packaging a modern and clean look that complements the rustic appearance of kraft gift boxes. While this is a relatively new packaging trend, it can give your business a competitive edge. The final look will depend on the quality and opacity of your ink, as well as the material used for your kraft box.
What Makes Kraft Paper Packaging Eco-Friendly?
Sustainability in packaging is not solely determined by the use of all-natural raw materials. The impact of the production process on the environment and the potential for reuse and recycling of the material are also important factors in determining the sustainability of the packaging.
1. Materials
Kraft packaging is made from natural wood fibers, but the sustainability of the material also depends on the source of the wood. Responsibly managed forests are ideal sources for wood fibers. One way for customers to ensure their kraft packaging is sourced sustainably is to look for the Forest Stewardship Council certification
2. Production Process
When selecting sustainable packaging, it's important to consider not only the material itself, but also the manufacturing process. How much energy is required to produce it? How much pollution is generated in the process? Kraft paper packaging is produced using the kraft process, which requires fewer chemicals than other paper manufacturing processes. The chemicals used in the production of kraft paper can be reclaimed and reused, making the process self-sustaining. Additionally, the byproducts of the process, such as tall oil and turpentine, can be repurposed to manufacture other items. These factors make kraft paper a sustainable choice for packaging.
3. Reusability and Recyclability
Kraft paper produced through the kraft process is both reusable and recyclable. After use, kraft paper boxes can be repurposed for storage or transportation of household items. Additionally, they can be recycled and turned into new packaging materials, further reducing their environmental impact.
What is FSC-Certified Kraft Paper?
The FSC certification is a standard for sustainable forest management that ensures landowners and wood product manufacturers follow responsible forestry practices. These practices include protecting water quality, avoiding hazardous chemicals, safeguarding natural forest covers and woodlands, reducing clear cutting, saving wildlife habitats, and promoting transparent governance. When a product bears the FSC label, consumers can trace the raw materials used to create the product and the forest from which they were harvested. A survey found that 76% of retailers and non-manufacturers believe that the FSC certification adds value to their products and helps convey their corporate social responsibility initiatives to their target audience. Additionally, 88% of them say that the certification helps build a positive corporate image. In North America, around 168 million acres of forestland are FSC-certified.
What Do Consumers Think of Sustainable Packaging?
With the world producing billions of metric tons of solid waste annually, of which hundreds of millions of metric tons are plastic, sustainable packaging has become more important than ever. Plastic waste is a major contributor to the pollution of our oceans and landfills. As customers become increasingly eco-conscious, businesses need to prioritize green initiatives to build consumer trust and appeal to their values. In fact, a Trivium Packaging study found that 74% of customers are willing to pay extra for products with green packaging, with 25% willing to pay more than 10% for sustainable packaging. Furthermore, nearly 50% of consumers avoid harmful packaging like plastics, with 68% associating plastic with ocean pollution. By shifting to sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives like kraft paper boxes, businesses can greatly reduce the amount of plastic entering our oceans and show consumers that they care about the planet.
Kraft Paper Market Updates and Trends
As customers become more environmentally conscious, there is a growing demand for sustainable packaging and support for the recycling process, including the use of kraft boxes. According to analysts, the global market for kraft paper box packaging is expected to reach a value of $22.38 billion in 2028, with a compound annual growth rate of 3.8% from 2020. This growth is driven by the demand for sustainable and recyclable packaging solutions across industries such as food and beverage, automotive, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. North America is expected to lead the market in revenue, due to the thriving food industry in the region and increasing paper recycling practices. Kraft paper is becoming an increasingly popular primary packaging solution in various industries.
Build a More Sustainable Future with Kraft Paper Packaging
The need for sustainable business packaging has never been greater. Although eliminating plastic waste and pollution entirely may not be possible in the near future, incorporating greener alternatives into your operations and using kraft paper boxes as much as possible is a step in the right direction. By doing your part to save the environment and the communities you serve, you can make a positive impact.
Refine Packaging is a trusted choice for Inc 5000 and Fortune 500 companies around the world. With fast production times, competitive pricing, and a can-do attitude, we'll help you create custom kraft packaging that sets you apart from the competition. Contact us today to speak with a dedicated packaging specialist who will guide you through every step of the custom packaging process with ease.
