Sep 5,2025
Paper is used all over the world. It is used in packaging and household uses. However, there are many types of papers in the world. A question that most people ask is What is the difference between kraft paper and normal paper?
The thing is that both kraft paper and normal paper are made from wood pulp. But still, they both have different attributes. Plus, they are used for different purposes. In this blog, you will get to the differences between kraft paper and normal paper. You will also get to know other related things. So, let’s begin.
To know the difference between kraft paper and standard (normal) paper, you will first need to know the process of paper making. Both types of paper are crafted from cellulose fibers found in wood pulp. When the paper is being produced, wood chips are broken down with the help of chemicals or mechanical ways. After that, the pulp is washed. In the second step, it is being pressed. In the last step, it is dried into sheets.
The biggest difference is hidden in the pulping process. For example, standard paper is always made with a chemical pulping method that eliminates the lignin (the natural glue that sticks fiber together). Then we have Kraft paper. Kraft paper is made in a special way. That is why it is stronger than normal paper. Kraft paper uses a special process that stores most of the lignin and results in stronger fibers. This is the reason why Kraft paper is prominently stronger than normal paper.
One of the major differences between kraft paper and normal paper is strength. Kraft paper is famous for its strong and tear-free nature. This is the reason why it is used in packing things and making grocery bags. The Kraft pulping process keeps the wood long and has strong fibers for its manufacturing. So that it doesn’t tear apart easily. This is the reason why Kraft paper is more vigorous. However, if a person tries to pull it apart, it doesn’t get torn apart easily.
If we compare standard paper with kraft paper, it is much slimmer and weaker. It is very easy for a standard paper to crumple, crush, or tear it apart with bare hands. Plus, no heavy weights can be loaded in normal paper bags. With that, all these factors that make it appropriate for packaging, it is perfect for the purpose of writing, and lightweight uses. These are the tasks where toughness is not required.
There is a huge difference in the look and texture of both kraft and normal paper.
✅ Kraft paper: Its natural color is “brown” and has a rougher texture. However, the brown color is derived from the lignin content, which remains in the pulp. But it can be bleached to get a white color. But mostly, the color of kraft paper is brown.
✅ Normal Paper: Normal paper’s hue is generally white or off-white and has an even surface. The bleaching process gives the paper a white color, which makes it ideal for writing and printing.
The hues of both papers make them appropriate for different purposes. Kraft paper’s earthy look is often connected to eco-friendliness. While normal paper’s white color is better for readability and professional documents.
Kraft paper is made with the help of the kraft process. In this process, wood chips are mixed with sodium hydroxide and sodium sulphate. With this method, the impurities are eliminated while keeping the fibers long and vigorous. The result is a paper with great longevity and resistance to tearing.
Normal papers are treated with chemicals and bleaching processes. This means the paper has shorter fibers, which gives it a smoother texture. Nonetheless, also makes it less strong than kraft paper.
Another pivotal difference is the thickness and weight.
✅ Kraft Paper: It is available in different grades. For example, lightweight kraft for wrapping or intensive kraft to use in industries.
✅ Standard Paper: Lighter and slimmer, with common office paper typically with a weight of 70 to 100 grams per square meter.
The difference in weight makes kraft paper more appropriate for carrying loads. Standard paper is best for daily tasks such as writing and printing.
Standard paper is made keeping printing in mind. Its smooth and clean surface enables ink to be shown sharp and clear. This makes it perfect for books and magazines.
Kraft paper, on the other hand, is not ideal for printing with ink. It has a rough texture and brown hue, which does not allow hues to show brightly and clearly on it. This is the reason why companies print labels on kraft paper for their products, because it adds an aesthetic appeal to these products. Printing is also done on shopping bags.
One of the reasons for the fame of kraft paper is its eco-friendly nature.
✅ Kraft Paper: Kraft paper is made with some of the chemicals. It is often made without heavy bleaching. Plus, kraft paper is more eco-friendly. It is completely biodegradable, compostable, and broken down naturally. Its natural strength allows us to use it many times before discarding it.
✅ Normal Paper: Standard paper needs more bleaching and chemical processing to give it a white color. Because it contains weaker fibers, it can be used multiple times just like kraft paper. The point to be noted here is that normal paper is also eco-friendly, like kraft paper.
However, those businesses that are seeking to promote eco-friendliness, kraft paper wins in this regard. Why? Because businesses prefer it over normal paper.
If we talk about normal paper, it is much cheaper than kraft paper. Large-scale production, lower strength needs, and heavy demand for printing make it budget-friendly.
Kraft paper, however, is more costly for two reasons:
✅ Production method
✅ Strength
The higher price is acceptable for applications where longevity and eco-friendliness mean a lot. Some examples can be:
✅ Shipping
✅ Packaging
✅ Branded wrapping
The decision about which paper to use depends on the need.
✅ Packaging materials, such as boxes, bags, and wrapping
✅ Envelopes
✅ Protective wrapping for metals and machinery
✅ Arts, crafts, and environmental-free friendly branding
✅ Food packaging
✅ Printing (books, magazines, and flyers)
✅ Writing and corporate work (notebooks and photocopies)
✅ Stationary products (calendars, and planners)
✅ Schools and academic uses
These applications clearly show why both types of paper are essential in daily life. Kraft paper is perfect for intensive uses. While normal paper excels in reading and writing.
Kraft paper can withstand moisture and wear as compared to standard paper. Though it’s not waterproof, its strong fibers hold up better in slightly damp conditions. While some kraft papers contain waterproof coatings to make them water-resistant. It is used in food packaging.
On the other hand, we have this normal paper, which absorbs moisture instantly. This absorption causes the paper to wrinkle or become useless. This factor makes it inappropriate for outdoor use.
Both Kraft and standard paper can be recycled, but Kraft paper wins the game here.
✅ Kraft paper works for a long time and can be used more than once for wrapping or packaging.
✅ Standard paper usually loses its quality after one-time use.
This makes kraft paper the best choice for minimizing waste and supporting eco-friendly activities.
The major difference between kraft paper and normal paper is their strength, appearance, and usage. Kraft paper is strong, long-lasting, and environmental-friendly. All these three qualities make it excellent for packaging and intensive work. Normal paper’s texture and surface are smooth and clear. This type of paper is optimal for writing and printing.
Both types of paper are pivotal in our everyday lives. If you simply need something for writing and printing, normal paper is the correct option. Nonetheless, if you want eco-friendly packaging, kraft paper is the better choice.
By knowing and understanding these differences, companies opt for that type of paper that suit their needs optimally.