What’s the difference between kraft, white, and coated cardboard?

The difference comes down to colour, finish, and how your artwork will appear when printed — but all options are FSC-certified, recyclable, and made using varying levels of recycled content to reduce environmental impact.

Kraft is brown, uncoated, and has a raw, natural finish. It contains a high percentage of recycled fibres and is perfect for minimal, eco-conscious designs. Works best with darker colours like black or rich tones.
White is uncoated and slightly textured, offering a clean, matte surface. It’s great for full-colour artwork and bold contrast, while still maintaining a recycled, natural look.
Coated White (often called lux or satin) has a smoother finish with a slight sheen. It allows for sharper detail and more vibrant colours — ideal for full background prints or designs with finer elements.

Kraft White is a hybrid stock — kraft on one side and white on the other. It’s perfect for brands who want an eco-friendly kraft exterior with the ability to print a dull colour design on the inside, allowing for both sustainability and creative flexibility.

If you’re unsure which material is right for your project, send us your design and we’ll recommend the best option.

What’s the difference between kraft, white, and coated cardboard?Updated 2 months ago