What is a folding carton?

A folding carton is a pre-made cardboard box that can be easily folded and assembled for packaging. The carton is made by folding and gluing together several panels of paperboard to create a box. Folding cartons are used for a wide variety of products, including food, cosmetics, and household items. They are typically made from a combination of paperboard and other materials such as aluminum or plastic, depending on the product and intended use. Folding cartons can be printed and decorated with a variety of techniques, including offset printing, digital printing, embossing, foiling, and can be made in different shapes and sizes to fit different products.

Here are a few tips to consider when designing folding cartons:

• Keep it simple: Simple, clean packaging design can be more appealing and easier to understand for customers. Avoid using too many colours, fonts, or graphics, and consider using minimalistic, white space to create a sense of sophistication.
• Use high-quality materials: The materials used for packaging should be of high quality and suitable for the product. For example, skin care products that are sold in jars or pots should be packaged in materials that are durable and resistant to breaking.
• Consider the function of the packaging: The packaging should be functional and easy to use. For example, packaging for a face wash should have a dispensing mechanism that allows the product to be easily dispensed without making a mess.
• Use appropriate labeling: Labeling should be clear and easy to read and should provide information about the product's ingredients, usage instructions, and any warnings.
• Think about sustainability: Consumers are increasingly looking for environmentally friendly packaging options. Consider using materials that are recycled, recyclable, or biodegradable for your skin care packaging.
• Consider the target audience: The packaging should be designed to appeal to the target audience for the product. For example, packaging for a high-end, anti-aging skincare line should be more sophisticated and luxurious than packaging for a more budget-friendly, everyday skincare line. 

The most common paperboard materials used to produce folding cartons are:

• SBS (Solid Bleached Sulfate): A lightweight, durable, and cost-effective folding carton material, SBS is the most commonly used paperboard material for folding carton production.
• CCNB (Clay Coated News Back): A heavier, more rigid option than SBS, CCNB is often used for larger folding cartons and for applications that require a higher level of durability.
• Folding Boxboard: Folding boxboard is a heavier and stiffer paperboard material that is often used for high-end retail packaging and specialized applications.
• White-Lined Chipboard: White-lined chipboard is a lightweight and cost-effective paperboard material that is often used for short-run production of folding cartons.
• Kraft Board: Kraft board is a heavier and more rigid paperboard material that is often used for food packaging, as it provides excellent moisture resistance and strength.