✅ UK stock • 🚚 Same-day dispatch (Mon–Fri before 5 pm) • ⭐ Top-rated on Trustpilot
Last updated: 31 October 2025 • ~7 min read
Quick answer: Kraft paper is a strong, unbleached paper made from wood pulp using the kraft process. It is durable, recyclable and ideal for retail carriers and wrapping. Our bags use 100 gsm Italian kraft for daily use. Shop Brown Kraft Paper Bags.
What is kraft paper?
Definition (snippet): Kraft paper is a tough, tear-resistant paper made by chemically pulping softwood to separate cellulose fibres from lignin. Unbleached “brown” kraft is naturally strong and recyclable, making it a go-to material for carrier bags, wraps and eco-friendly retail packaging.
We use 100 gsm Italian kraft with a flat block bottom and twisted handles for retail, cafés and gifting. Responsible sourcing is available through FSC and PEFC.
How is kraft paper made?
The kraft process turns timber into strong paper with minimal fibre damage:
- Chip & screen: Debark, chip and screen softwood.
- Cook: Chips are cooked with alkaline chemicals (e.g., sodium sulphate) under heat and pressure to separate cellulose from lignin.
- Wash & recover: Pulp is washed; chemicals are recovered for reuse.
- Sheet & dry: Clean pulp is formed into sheets, pressed and dried.
- Finish: Rolls are cut or converted into brown kraft paper bags.
For more background on pulping and paper science, see PITA.
Types of kraft paper
- Brown (unbleached) kraft: Highest natural strength; ideal for carriers, wraps and rustic branding.
- White (bleached) kraft: Clean, premium look for boutiques and events. See white kraft paper bags.
- Recycled kraft: From recovered fibres; strength varies by grade.
- Coated or treated: Wax/oil coatings add moisture resistance for specific food wraps.
Kraft paper GSM & strength
GSM (grams per square metre) shows paper weight and feel. Our carrier bags use 100 gsm Italian kraft — a reliable day-to-day strength for UK retail. Use thicker grades for heavy boxes; lighter grades suit wraps.
| GSM | Typical use | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 90 | Light wraps, inner packing | Flexible; not for heavy items |
| 100 | Carrier bags (our standard) | Good strength-to-weight balance |
| 110–120 | Heavier carriers, box wrap | Extra toughness for bulkier goods |
Download our Paper Bag Size Guide (PDF).
Why kraft paper is eco-friendly
- Recyclable: Recycle when clean and dry. Remove plastic liners or tapes. Check local guidance via Recycle Now.
- Compostable (uncoated): Shred for faster breakdown; avoid greasy residues.
- Responsible sourcing: Look for FSC or PEFC certification.
- Waste reduction: Reuse carriers several times before recycling. Guidance for businesses: WRAP UK.
Kraft vs recycled vs normal paper
| Paper type | Strength | Appearance | Eco notes | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kraft (unbleached) | High | Natural brown | Recyclable; often compostable | Carrier bags, wraps |
| Recycled paper | Varies | Brown or off-white | Resource-efficient; fibres may be shorter | General packaging, fillers |
| Normal (bleached) paper | Moderate | White | Recyclable; bleaching impacts vary | Printing, stationery |
For a balanced view of paper and plastic impacts, see this BBC overview.
Common uses of kraft paper (UK)
- Retail & carriers: Brown kraft paper bags.
- Boutiques & events: White kraft paper bags for a clean, premium look.
- Gift wrapping: Rustic wraps with tags and twine; coloured options via the Paper Bags collection.
- Food packaging: Dry goods and pastry boxes; use liners for moisture.
- E-commerce packing: Void fill and wraps. For parcels, choose mailing bags and packaging tape.
Sustainability & environmental impact
Kraft supports circular use: reuse first, then recycle when clean and dry. UK policy on carrier bags is on GOV.UK. For posting, follow the Royal Mail size guide to cut waste and returns.
For wider context on circular design, see the Ellen MacArthur Foundation.
Buying guide: choosing kraft paper bags
- Paper & build: 100 gsm Italian kraft; twisted handles; flat block bottom.
- Colour: Natural brown for eco style; white for premium branding.
- Size: Pick by product volume and weight (see Size Guide PDF).
- Trade: For wholesale pricing, use the Bulk Order form.
Featured product: Brown Kraft Paper Bags – 100 gsm
Durable, recyclable carriers in X-Small, Small and Medium. Ideal for retail, cafés and gifting.
📏 Download our Paper Bag Size Guide (PDF) | 💼 Bulk Order / Trade Enquiry Form (PDF)
Related reading
- 8 Practical Uses for Brown Paper Bags
- Why Switching to Paper Bags Improves Sustainability
- 10 Things You Should Know About Paper Bags
Trust & Service Guarantee
UK stock – Same-day dispatch on orders before 5 pm (Mon–Fri). Free next-working-day delivery on UK Mainland orders over £100.
Shipped from our Manchester warehouse via DPD Next Day or Royal Mail Tracked 24.
Click & Collect: 10A Locket Street, Manchester, M8 8EE. Need help? Call or WhatsApp +44 7450 981838.
Top-rated by UK customers on Trustpilot.
Produce durable, eco-friendly Kraft paper bags efficiently with our advanced Kraft paper bag making machine. Designed for high output and customizable sizes, it’s perfect for businesses seeking sustainable packaging solutions. Boost your production, reduce environmental impact, and meet market demand for natural, strong bags.
Unlock entrepreneurship with a paper bag making machine! Easily produce eco-friendly paper bags for businesses or personal use. Start your sustainable packaging venture today with our efficient and versatile machines, perfect for creating custom bags of all sizes.
As a leading paper bag machine manufacturer, we provide cutting-edge solutions for efficient and sustainable paper bag production. Our high-quality machines ensure durability and precision, helping you meet market demand for eco-friendly packaging. Partner with an experienced manufacturer for reliable technology, comprehensive support, and tailored solutions to elevate your business.
Increase efficiency and cut costs with our advanced packaging machine in Saudi Arabia. Ideal for food, beverage, and industrial sectors, it delivers fast, precise, and reliable packing. Perfect for small firms and large factories, this durable solution ensures consistent quality, saves time, and supports eco-friendly packaging for the Saudi market.
Leave a comment