What is Ivory Board? Ivory Board is a type of paperboard known for its superior surface smoothness, excellent durability, and vibrant printability. Whether you're looking for materials for luxury packaging, business cards, or high-end brochures, Ivory Board’s unique properties make it the ideal solution for various professional applications.
In this blog, we’ll dive into the features, benefits, and wide range of applications of Ivory Board, helping you understand why it’s a go-to choice for premium products.
Ivory Board is made from high-quality virgin wood pulp, ensuring superior durability, high brightness, and excellent surface smoothness. Compared to paperboards containing recycled fibers, Ivory Board offers better structural integrity and print performance, making it a preferred choice for premium packaging and high-end printing applications.
Ivory Board is available in two primary types based on surface treatment:
| Type | Surface Finish | Characteristics | Common Applications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coated Ivory Board | Smooth, glossy/matte | Enhanced printability, vibrant colors, improved durability | Luxury packaging, business cards, brochures |
| Uncoated Ivory Board | Natural, absorbent | Softer texture, better ink penetration, eco-friendly appeal | Book covers, minimalist packaging, writing materials |
The choice between coated and uncoated Ivory Board depends on the intended use, with coated variants preferred for high-quality printing and uncoated options favored for a more organic look.
Ivory Board is further categorized based on its coating configuration:
| Type | Coating Application | Features | Typical Uses |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single-Sided Coated Ivory Board (FBB - Folding Box Board) | Coated on one side, uncoated or lightly coated on the reverse | Superior print quality on the front, cost-effective for packaging | Folding cartons, food packaging, pharmaceutical boxes |
| Double-Sided Coated Ivory Board (SBS - Solid Bleached Sulfate) | Coated on both sides | Uniform printability on both surfaces, premium feel | Luxury packaging, high-end brochures, specialty greeting cards |
Single-sided coated Ivory Board is widely used in industries where only the exterior requires high-quality printing, while double-sided coated Ivory Board is ideal for applications demanding consistent aesthetics on both sides.
The thickness and weight of Ivory Board determine its durability, rigidity, and suitability for different applications. Unlike standard paper, which is measured in weight per ream, Ivory Board is classified by GSM (Grams per Square Meter), indicating its density and sturdiness.
Ivory Board typically falls within the range of 170 GSM to 400 GSM, with different weights serving distinct purposes.
170-250 GSM: Lightweight and flexible, suitable for flyers, book covers, and magazine inserts.
250-300 GSM: Medium thickness, offering a balance between durability and flexibility. Commonly used for business cards, postcards, and premium brochures.
300-400 GSM: Heavyweight and rigid, ideal for luxury packaging, folding cartons, and high-end retail branding materials.
The thickness of Ivory Board directly influences its strength and performance in various applications.
Thin Ivory Board (170-250 GSM): Easier to fold and handle, making it a cost-effective option for promotional materials and print advertisements.
Medium-weight Ivory Board (250-300 GSM): Provides better durability, making it suitable for products that require both print quality and moderate structural integrity, such as menu cards and presentation folders.
Thick Ivory Board (300-400 GSM): Preferred for premium packaging and branding materials where rigidity, durability, and a luxurious feel are essential.
Ivory Board is widely recognized for its smooth and high-quality surface, which enhances print clarity and ensures vibrant color reproduction. The surface coating significantly affects ink absorption and compatibility with different printing techniques.
The high-quality coating of Ivory Board creates a uniform, non-porous surface that prevents ink from spreading, ensuring sharp images and consistent color distribution. This feature makes Ivory Board an excellent choice for industries requiring fine typography and detailed graphics, such as cosmetic packaging, high-end brochures, and promotional materials.
Ivory Board supports a wide range of printing techniques, making it a versatile material for various applications.
Offset Printing: Delivers sharp, high-resolution images, making it ideal for large-scale packaging, commercial prints, and branding materials.
Digital Printing: Well-suited for short-run prints such as business cards, invitations, and marketing materials requiring fast turnaround times.
Embossing & Foil Stamping: Works exceptionally well with Ivory Board, enhancing luxury packaging, certificates, and premium branding projects.
UV Printing: Ideal for coated variants of Ivory Board, producing high-gloss finishes for specialty packaging and promotional materials.
The production of Ivory Board involves multiple stages, from selecting high-quality raw materials to applying coatings that enhance its printability. Each step in the manufacturing process plays a crucial role in determining the board’s strength, texture, and suitability for various applications.
Ivory Board is primarily made from high-quality virgin wood pulp, which provides the necessary strength, smoothness, and durability. Unlike recycled fibers, virgin pulp maintains longer and stronger fibers, ensuring better structural integrity and a more refined surface. This high fiber quality contributes to superior stiffness, excellent printability, and better folding resistance, making it an ideal choice for premium packaging and high-end printing applications.
The sourcing of raw materials for Ivory Board has a significant environmental impact. Leading manufacturers prioritize sustainable forestry practices by obtaining pulp from responsibly managed forests certified by organizations such as the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) or the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC). Many production facilities also implement closed-loop water systems and chlorine-free bleaching techniques to minimize environmental harm. Additionally, an increasing number of manufacturers are incorporating eco-friendly coatings and biodegradable alternatives, aligning with global sustainability efforts.
The pulping process is essential for breaking down wood fibers into a fine, consistent slurry. In Ivory Board production, manufacturers commonly use either the mechanical pulping or chemical pulping method:
Mechanical Pulping: Produces high-yield pulp by grinding wood into fibers. While cost-effective, it may result in weaker fibers and reduced brightness.
Chemical Pulping (Kraft Process or Sulfite Process): Removes lignin and impurities using chemical treatments, resulting in stronger, smoother, and brighter fibers, making it the preferred choice for high-quality Ivory Board.
To enhance the brightness and whiteness of Ivory Board, manufacturers use specialized bleaching techniques. The two primary bleaching methods include:
Elemental Chlorine-Free (ECF) Bleaching: Uses chlorine dioxide instead of pure chlorine, reducing harmful environmental impact while maintaining high brightness levels.
Totally Chlorine-Free (TCF) Bleaching: Uses oxygen, ozone, or hydrogen peroxide as bleaching agents, making it the most eco-friendly option. This method is preferred by environmentally conscious brands.
To enhance surface smoothness, ink absorption, and durability, Ivory Board undergoes a coating process that applies a fine layer of pigments and binders. Common coating types include:
Single-Coated Ivory Board (C1S - Coated One Side): Features a coated front for high-quality printing while the back remains uncoated for better adhesion and writing compatibility.
Double-Coated Ivory Board (C2S - Coated Two Sides): Coated on both sides for enhanced print clarity and color vibrancy, making it suitable for luxury packaging and premium printed materials.
The final finishing step determines the appearance, texture, and functionality of the Ivory Board surface. Two common finish options are:
Glossy Finish: Provides a smooth, reflective surface, making colors appear more vibrant and images sharper. Ideal for brochures, magazine covers, and luxury product packaging.
Matte Finish: Offers a soft, non-reflective texture, reducing glare and enhancing readability. Commonly used for premium business cards, book covers, and elegant packaging where a subtle, sophisticated look is desired.
Ivory Board is available in different types, primarily distinguished by their coating and structural composition. The two most common types are Single-Sided Coated Ivory Board (FBB - Folding Box Board) and Double-Sided Coated Ivory Board (SBS - Solid Bleached Sulfate). Each type has unique characteristics that determine its suitability for various applications.
Single-Sided Coated Ivory Board, also known as Folding Box Board (FBB), features a multi-layered structure with a coated front side and an uncoated or lightly coated reverse side. The coated front ensures smoothness and excellent printability, while the uncoated back provides better grip and structural stability.
Key characteristics of FBB Ivory Board include:
Lightweight but durable: The multi-layer composition offers a balance between strength and flexibility, making it suitable for folding and die-cutting.
High stiffness: Maintains shape even under pressure, making it ideal for packaging.
Good ink absorption: The coated surface enhances print clarity, making it perfect for detailed graphics and branding elements.
Eco-friendly options available: Many FBB boards use recyclable and biodegradable materials, making them a sustainable choice.
Folding Box Board is extensively used in industries that require high-quality yet cost-effective packaging solutions. Common applications include:
Food Packaging: Used for cereal boxes, frozen food cartons, and confectionery packaging due to its food-safe properties.
Pharmaceuticals: Preferred for medicine boxes and healthcare product packaging because of its lightweight yet sturdy nature.
Cosmetics and Personal Care: Provides an elegant and printable surface for perfume boxes, skincare products, and beauty packaging.
Retail and Consumer Goods: Used for product cartons, gift boxes, and stationery packaging, offering a professional and premium look.
Double-Sided Coated Ivory Board, commonly referred to as Solid Bleached Sulfate (SBS) board, is a premium-quality board made entirely from bleached virgin wood pulp. Unlike FBB, SBS is coated on both sides, resulting in a uniformly smooth and bright white surface on both the front and back.
Key features of SBS Ivory Board include:
Superior whiteness and brightness: Provides a clean, high-end appearance suitable for luxury packaging and premium printed materials.
Enhanced printability on both sides: Ensures consistent color reproduction and fine details, making it ideal for high-quality graphics and branding.
High-density composition: Offers greater durability and moisture resistance, making it suitable for premium packaging that requires extra protection.
FDA-approved variants available: Certain SBS boards are certified for direct food contact, making them a preferred choice for high-end food packaging.
SBS Ivory Board is widely used in premium and high-performance packaging applications where both aesthetics and durability are critical. Common uses include:
Luxury Packaging: Used for high-end cosmetics, jewelry boxes, and electronics packaging where a pristine, premium finish is essential.
Rigid Box Manufacturing: Commonly used in perfume boxes, watch cases, and premium retail packaging that requires a sturdy and elegant look.
Food and Beverage Packaging: Utilized in premium chocolate boxes, wine bottle carriers, and bakery packaging, ensuring food safety and an upscale presentation.
Marketing and Promotional Materials: Ideal for business cards, high-end brochures, greeting cards, and invitation cards, where double-sided printing is necessary for a polished and professional appearance.
Ivory Board is widely utilized across multiple industries due to its smooth surface, high stiffness, and excellent printability. Its versatility makes it an essential material for packaging, printing, and specialty applications.
Ivory Board is a preferred choice for luxury packaging due to its high-quality finish, durability, and ability to support intricate printing techniques. Industries that rely on premium branding and visual appeal frequently use Ivory Board for their packaging solutions.
Cosmetics and Beauty Products: High-end brands use coated Ivory Board for perfume boxes, skincare packaging, and makeup product cartons, ensuring an elegant and sophisticated appearance.
Electronics Packaging: Premium consumer electronics, such as smartphones, accessories, and high-end gadgets, use rigid and durable Ivory Board packaging for protection and branding.
Luxury Goods: Designer watches, jewelry, and fashion accessories often come in sturdy, embossed Ivory Board boxes that enhance product presentation and consumer experience.
The food industry requires packaging that is not only visually appealing but also safe for direct or indirect food contact. Ivory Board, especially FDA-approved and food-grade variants, meets strict hygiene and safety regulations.
Chocolate and Confectionery Packaging: Used for premium chocolate boxes and high-end confectionery products, ensuring both aesthetic appeal and product protection.
Bakery and Patisserie Boxes: Ideal for cake boxes, macaron packaging, and pastry cartons, offering a sturdy yet lightweight solution.
Frozen and Dry Food Packaging: Suitable for cereal boxes, frozen meal cartons, and specialty food packaging, where durability and print quality are essential.
Ivory Board’s smooth, high-density surface allows for sharp printing, vivid colors, and premium finishing techniques, making it a top choice for corporate branding materials.
Luxury Business Cards: Companies aiming for a high-end, professional image use Ivory Board for thick, embossed, or foil-stamped business cards.
Brochures and Marketing Materials: Used in high-quality catalogs, product brochures, and promotional leaflets, providing a premium tactile experience that enhances brand perception.
Ivory Board’s rigid and durable nature makes it suitable for bookbinding and luxury stationery.
Hardcover Book Jackets: Ensures a smooth, protective outer layer for novels, coffee table books, and collector’s editions.
Premium Invitations and Greeting Cards: Ivory Board is commonly used for wedding invitations, holiday greeting cards, and corporate event invitations, offering an elegant and polished look.
Notebooks and Planners: High-quality notebooks and planners feature Ivory Board covers for durability and a refined appearance.
Artists and craft enthusiasts favor Ivory Board for its rigidity, smooth surface, and compatibility with various artistic techniques.
Sketching and Drawing: Used as a durable alternative to standard paper, especially for ink, watercolor, and marker-based artwork.
Handmade Cards and Scrapbooking: Provides a sturdy base for DIY projects, allowing for custom designs, embossing, and intricate paper-cutting techniques.
Ivory Board is widely used for custom packaging and promotional materials, where branding and premium aesthetics are key.
Corporate Gift Boxes: Many businesses invest in custom Ivory Board gift boxes for clients and partners, ensuring a high-end presentation.
Event and Trade Show Giveaways: High-quality promotional folders, display cards, and packaging for giveaways are often made from Ivory Board to maintain a professional image.
Ivory Board is widely used in premium packaging and high-quality printing applications, but it is often compared with other paperboard materials such as Duplex Board, Art Paper, and Kraft Board. Each material has distinct characteristics that determine its suitability for specific industries and uses.
Ivory Board is made from high-quality virgin wood pulp, resulting in a denser, smoother, and more durable surface. This makes it ideal for luxury packaging, business cards, and high-end marketing materials.
Duplex Board, in contrast, is typically made from recycled paper pulp, making it a more economical but lower-quality alternative. Its rougher backside and reduced stiffness limit its use in premium applications.
Ivory Board is preferred for cosmetics, electronics, and food packaging, where presentation and durability are crucial.
Duplex Board is commonly used for low-cost packaging solutions, such as shoeboxes, soap packaging, and disposable food containers, where cost-effectiveness outweighs aesthetics.
Structural Integrity: Ivory Board is stiffer and more rigid than Art Paper, making it better suited for box packaging that requires strength and shape retention.
Printing Quality: Both materials support high-quality printing, but Ivory Board’s coated surface provides a superior finish, making it ideal for luxury branding and embossing.
Thickness Options: Art Paper is often thin and flexible, commonly used for magazines, posters, and flyers. In contrast, Ivory Board is available in thicker GSM, making it more suitable for premium cartons and high-end packaging.
Ivory Board is the top choice for luxury rigid packaging, premium shopping bags, and branded gift boxes.
Art Paper is more commonly used for brochures, flyers, and catalog covers, where flexibility and high-resolution printing are prioritized over stiffness.
Ivory Board has a smooth, white surface that allows for vibrant color printing, making it an excellent option for high-end packaging and promotional materials.
Kraft Board, made from unbleached wood pulp, has a natural brown appearance that is less refined but stronger in tear resistance, making it ideal for heavy-duty packaging and eco-friendly branding.
Ivory Board is primarily made from virgin pulp, but some manufacturers produce recycled-content versions to meet sustainability standards.
Kraft Board is regarded as more eco-friendly due to its biodegradability and recyclability, often used in organic and environmentally conscious packaging solutions.
Ivory Board is preferred for luxury, food-safe, and cosmetic packaging due to its polished appearance and superior print quality.
Kraft Board is commonly used in eco-friendly product packaging, shipping boxes, and takeaway food containers, where sustainability and durability are key concerns.
To wrap it up, Ivory Board truly stands out for its versatility and high-quality finish, making it a go-to material for industries ranging from luxury packaging to premium printing. Whether you're looking to enhance your brand with sleek, vibrant packaging or create elegant marketing materials, Ivory Board offers the durability, printability, and aesthetic appeal you need. Have you considered how Ivory Board could elevate your next project? It’s worth exploring how it can make your designs shine!
Ivory board is primarily made from high-quality wood pulp, offering smoothness and durability for printing and packaging needs.
Ivory board is commonly used for premium packaging, gift boxes, and product labels due to its sturdy yet elegant finish.
Ivory board thickness varies, typically ranging from 200 gsm to 400 gsm, suitable for different packaging requirements.
Yes, many ivory board manufacturers offer eco-friendly options, using sustainable wood pulp and recyclable materials.
Ivory board provides an excellent surface for printing, making it ideal for high-quality graphics and designs on packaging materials.
