Packaging

Packaging gives a product a defined container and a printed presentation. Mono cartons, corrugated boxes, rigid boxes and paper carry bags serve different packing, display and handling needs.

What the process means

A folded carton is formed from a cut and creased sheet. Corrugated construction uses a fluted layer between liners. A rigid box uses a more substantial assembled structure. Start with the contents and dimensions before preparing the final artwork layout.

Printed examples illustrating packaging

Explore the techniques

A closer look at the processes and the details to prepare for your project.

Mono cartons: Paperboard layout → Cut and fold → Product carton

Mono cartons

Mono cartons are formed from printed paperboard that is cut, creased and folded around a product. The flat structural layout determines how panels, flaps and printed artwork come together.

For your project

Share the product dimensions and intended pack arrangement before finalising artwork. Board choice and closure style should support the contents and how the carton will be packed.

Corrugated boxes: Fluted board → Box construction → Shipping box

Corrugated boxes

Corrugated construction combines a fluted layer with liner sheets. The resulting board is formed into a box around the contents for handling, storage or dispatch.

For your project

Start with the contents, dimensions and intended handling. Construction and printing need to follow the actual order rather than an assumed universal ply or flute specification.

Rigid boxes: Board structure → Assembly and wrap → Presentation box

Rigid boxes

Rigid boxes use an assembled board structure rather than relying only on folding a lightweight carton blank. The box body and presentation finish form part of the construction.

For your project

Useful for gift and presentation packaging. Identify the contents, dimensions and opening arrangement when discussing the box, then plan printed or wrapped artwork around that structure.

Kraft cartons: Kraft board → Cut and crease → Kraft carton

Kraft cartons

Kraft cartons use kraft paperboard as the starting material for a folded pack. The natural-looking surface affects how printed artwork appears alongside the board colour.

For your project

Provide product dimensions and the intended carton layout. Keep the artwork and board appearance in mind when planning large colour areas or small text.

Paper carry bags: Printed paper → Bag assembly → Paper carry bag

Paper carry bags

Paper carry bags combine a printed paper body with a construction intended for carrying the contents. Bag dimensions, handle arrangement and artwork position are part of the finished design.

For your project

Share the intended contents and bag size before preparing the final artwork. Consider how the bag will be held and where branding should remain visible.

Mailer boxes: Contents and layout → Box construction → Packed order

Mailer boxes

Mailer boxes enclose an order for dispatch and presentation. The box layout, opening arrangement and printed design should work together around the product and any accompanying pieces.

For your project

Include the contents, overall dimensions and packing arrangement. Explain the intended dispatch use without assuming that one construction or protection level suits every parcel.

Where it fits

  • Product cartons and mailer boxes
  • Rigid gift boxes
  • Paper carry bags
Explore related products →

Start with your project

Share your artwork or reference, finished dimensions, quantity and intended use. Include your delivery location and required date.