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Custom Paper Tape: A Recycled Paper Alternative to Plastic Tape

Deborah Lill |

Tape is one of those packaging components that can easily be overlooked. The box gets the attention, but the tape is what seals it, and for businesses looking to reduce plastic across their packaging, it is another opportunity to make a different material choice.


Our new custom paper tape provides a paper-based alternative to plastic packing tape, with a natural kraft-style appearance and a paper backing made using recycled paper fibres. It is also available with custom printing, giving businesses a simple way to add branding to their packaging.

Paper tape vs plastic

The most obvious difference when comparing paper tape vs plastic is the backing material. Plastic packing tape uses a plastic film, whereas paper tape uses a paper backing with an adhesive coating to seal the package.


For businesses already using cardboard boxes, moving to paper tape can be a straightforward way to reduce the amount of plastic used in the finished parcel. It doesn't require a change to the way the box is packed or sealed; it is simply a different type of tape.


That makes it an easy place to start when reviewing the individual materials that make up your packaging.

Made using recycled paper fibres

The backing of our custom paper tape is made using recycled paper fibres rather than virgin pulp. This gives the tape a natural paper appearance while incorporating recycled material into another part of the packaging process.


The tape is also recyclable, making it a practical choice for businesses looking to keep their packaging materials within paper-based recycling streams.


Looking at the smaller components as well as the main box can be a useful part of reviewing the materials used across your packaging. Tape may only be one element, but it is an element that is used on every parcel.

The look of imitation kraft tape

If you like the natural appearance of kraft packaging, our tape has the look of imitation kraft tape, making it a natural match for cardboard boxes and paper-based packaging.


It can be custom printed with your logo, brand identity or artwork, giving you the opportunity to turn what is normally a functional part of the packaging into part of the overall presentation.


For ecommerce brands, that can be particularly useful. The tape is visible on the outside of the parcel, so your branding is there from the moment the package arrives.

An economical way to introduce branding

For a start-up or growing business, fully branded packaging can be a significant investment. Bespoke printed boxes can require larger minimum quantities and a greater upfront commitment, which may not suit a business that is still establishing its order volumes or refining its packaging.


Custom paper tape offers a simpler way to introduce branding without changing your existing boxes. You can use standard packaging and add your logo, brand colours or artwork through the tape, giving the finished parcel a branded appearance without immediately investing in fully bespoke packaging.


It can also be a useful stepping stone for a new business. As order volumes grow, you may eventually decide to move to fully branded boxes or other bespoke packaging. In the meantime, custom paper tape gives you a way to make your parcels feel recognisably yours without making that larger upfront commitment.

Ordering your custom paper tape is simple

We have kept the ordering process straightforward:


1. Place your order
Simply place your order online. Our bespoke team will then be in touch to request your logo or artwork.


2. Approve your proof
We’ll create a one-colour proof for you to check and approve before your tape goes into production.


3. Receive your tape
Once your proof has been approved, your custom paper tape will be produced and delivered within 10–15 working days.

Custom paper tape from Lil Packaging

Our new custom paper tape is available to order from Lil Packaging, with custom printing available for businesses wanting to add their own branding.


With its recycled paper fibre backing, recyclable construction and natural kraft-style appearance, it offers a practical alternative to plastic packing tape while giving brands a simple and economical way to make their packaging their own.


For a new or growing business, it could be the first step towards creating packaging that looks like your brand, without having to commit to fully bespoke packaging from day one.

About the author - Deborah Lill


Deb Lill is the Creative Manager at Lil Packaging, where she blends over 20 years of experience in branding, content creation, and people-focused communication. With a background in Psychology and HR, she brings deep insight into motivation and storytelling, helping shape Lil’s authentic, sustainability-driven voice across platforms. Having been part of Lil’s journey for two decades, Deb has helped grow a thriving online community and continues to champion creativity, eco-friendly innovation, and family values - both in her work and in her life.