Made primarily from recycled or virgin paper pulp, it offers a clean, matte surface ideal for bold graphics — without the plastic footprint.
From hanging displays and shelf signage to product packaging prototypes and window posters, paper board delivers authentic texture, structural integrity, and full recyclability in one cost-effective sheet.
Here’s why this unassuming substrate is quietly becoming a sustainability superstar.
Paper board (also known as carton board, chipboard, or cardboard signage) is a thick, rigid sheet made from compressed paper fibers. It’s often used uncoated or lightly coated to preserve a natural, tactile feel, and is commonly:
FSC® or PEFC-certified
Made from 100% recycled or partially recycled fiber
Biodegradable and fully curbside recyclable
Available in white, kraft (brown), or greyback formats
Optimized for UV, latex, or aqueous digital printing
Some boards are clay-coated for improved color vibrancy, while others embrace a raw, matte finish ideal for brands promoting an organic or minimal aesthetic.
Sustainable retail signage
Window posters and in-store graphics
Temporary wayfinding or event signs
Product mockups and prototype packaging
Eco branding environments and green-certified interiors
Educational or institutional displays with a low-waste mandate
It’s the perfect surface when you want the design to look intentional, earthy, and environmentally friendly.
Paper board is typically printed on flatbed UV printers due to its rigidity and ink absorption properties. It also works well with:
Latex inks (especially with coated surfaces)
Aqueous inkjet systems for short-run, small-format graphics
Toner-based presses (for thinner board sheets)
Print tips:
Use board-specific ICC profiles to manage color density
Uncoated surfaces will absorb more ink — ideal for muted, natural looks
Heavily saturated colors may dry slower on absorbent boards
Always test color contrast on kraft or greyback formats — white ink may be needed
100% recyclable and biodegradable
Ideal for green building and zero-waste events
Matte surface reduces glare and enhances readability
Easy to cut, score, crease, and fold
Great for brands with a natural, artisanal identity
Lightweight, rigid, and cost-effective
You can compare board thickness, coating, and fiber content directly on Substrate Bank — helpful when matching substrate to campaign goals.
Trim cleanly with blade or CNC cutter — avoid crushing edges
Store flat in dry, climate-controlled space to avoid warping
Mount with clips, hangers, or tension frames — avoid adhesives for recyclability
Use rounded corners to reduce denting during handling
In a market where sustainability matters more than ever, printable paper board offers a natural alternative that doesn’t compromise on quality. It's bold enough for branding, strong enough for temporary displays, and subtle enough to let your design — and your values — speak loud and clear.
Because in today’s digital print world, the best substrate might not shine — it might just stand grounded.