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Comparing: Paper vs. Glassine Packaging

Comparing: Paper vs. Glassine Packaging

When it comes to packaging, paper and glassine seem pretty similar at first glance—but they’re actually very different. If you’re trying to decide between the two, it all comes down to what you’re packing, how you want it to look, and how much you’re willing to spend. 

What are they made of?

Paper is made from wood pulp and comes in a variety of textures, thicknesses, and coatings. You’ll find kraft paper (brown, unbleached) and white paper (processed and often smoother). It’s biodegradable, recyclable, and widely available.

Glassine is also made from wood pulp, but it’s pressed and polished to create a smooth, almost waxy finish. The result is a semi-transparent, grease-resistant material that’s still biodegradable and recyclable.

👉 If you need a breathable, rough-textured wrap, go with paper. If you need something smoother and slightly water-resistant, glassine is the better choice.

comparing glassine and paper

How easy are they to use?

Paper is versatile—it can be folded, crumpled, or cut to fit whatever you’re packing. It’s great for wrapping items, cushioning fragile products, or serving as filler inside packages. The downside of this is that can tear easily and doesn’t repel moisture.

Glassine is smoother and naturally more resistant to grease and light moisture, making it a great choice for food, cosmetics, and delicate paper goods. Unlike regular paper, it won’t shed fibers or stick to oily surfaces. But it’s not as flexible—it doesn’t crumple well, and once it’s creased, it stays that way.

👉  If you need something soft and moldable, choose paper. If you want a sleek, protective layer, go for glassine.

No more cutting from bulky glassine rolls! Impack's glassine bags come in ready-to-use sizes, so you can just pick the perfect fit, peel, and stick.

Glassine Bags 5.6" x 8.6" From $10.00 USD
5.0
New!

Glassine Bags 5.6" x 8.6"

 Measured at 5.6" x 8.6", perfect for packing a pair of socks or jewelry and other small accessories.

Made from wood pulps, they're smooth, slightly glossy paper bags that provide an eco-friendly alternative to plastic. Ideal for safely securing items before packaging and shipping.

Designed to fit seamlessly into our 6x9 mailers!

What's more budget-friendly?

Paper is generally cheaper, especially in bulk. Kraft paper, in particular, is one of the most cost-effective packaging materials out there.

Glassine is a little pricier because of the extra processing that makes it smooth and grease-resistant. However, it’s still more affordable than plastic-based alternatives like wax paper or plastic wraps.

👉 If budget is your main concern, paper is the way to go. If you’re willing to spend a little more for a polished, premium look, glassine can still be worth it.

The bottom line: What's better for you?

Use paper if you need a low-cost, all-purpose packaging option for wrapping, cushioning, or branding with custom prints.

Use glassine if you need something sleek, grease-resistant, and protective without using plastic.

Best Products to Wrap in Paper vs. Glassine

📦 Best for Paper:

  • Handmade soaps (with an outer label or twine)
  • Books and journals
  • Apparel and textiles
  • Candles
  • Fragile items (as cushioning or void fill)
  • Small gift boxes
  • Baked goods (with additional food-safe lining)
  • Electronics (with anti-static paper)

📦 Best for Glassine:

  • Greeting cards and stationery
  • Stickers and decals
  • Prints and photographs
  • Wax melts and candles
  • Jewelry and small accessories
  • Cosmetic products (lip balms, compact powders, etc.)
  • Food items with slight grease (cookies, pastries)
  • Seeds and dried flowers

Recommended Products

Want to switch to better, more sustainable packaging? Impack offers glassine envelopes that are eco-friendly and designed for businesses like yours. 📦 Check out our collection today!

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