A Brief History of Cardboard: Who Invented Cardboard

Cardboard is everywhere. From the early time you wake up to the moments before you go to bed, you see several packaging types or different-sized boxes made with cardboard around you. From packing lightweight goods to shipping online orders, cardboard’s versatility and durability are evident everywhere. But what is cardboard made of? Have you ever wondered where cardboard came from? Can you name the genius who invented cardboard? Unable to guess? Don’t worry.

This blog will explore the history of cardboard and trace when cardboard was invented for the first time. You will also learn what innovations were brought to cardboard?—from its early beginnings to its uses and impact in today’s world.

What Led to The Invention of Cardboard

Before the invention of cardboard, people used various materials for packaging and storage. Simple paper made from wood pulp was used for packaging.

The materials commonly used for storing and transporting items before the advent of cardboard were:

• Wooden crates
• Boxes
• Barrels
• Woven baskets

These storage materials are still being used today.

The use of animal hides was also common. They were used to create bags and pouches for comfortably carrying personal items. Fabric or clothing bags were used to carry smaller items such as food.

These materials used before cardboard were less durable and more expensive, leading to the invention of cardboard, which revolutionized the packaging industry.

Who Invented Cardboard? When did Cardboard make a Debut?

Where does cardboard come from? Where did paper originate? Let’s find out all the answers!

Origins of Cardboard – 15th Century China

The journey of the cardboard invention began in the 15th century in China, where it was invented. China is the origin that gave birth to cardboard. Initially, cardboard was simply a thicker sheet of glued-together material, used primarily for packaging.

1817: First Paperboard Box Invention (M. Treverton & Son)

Crossing three centuries later, an English company known as M. Treverton & Son invented the first paperboard box of cardboard sheets in 1817. It had less strength compared to modern cardboard and became thicker and more rigid when developed.

1856: Corrugation—Pioneering New Innovations

When was corrugated cardboard invented? Corrugation in cardboard is considered a driver of innovative solutions. This innovation came to cardboard when, in 1856, in England, pleated paper was patented. It was used as a liner in various items, including tall hats.

1871: Corrugated Paper Patent

In 1871, Albert Jones invented corrugated boxboard, and for single-sided corrugated paperboard, he patented his design. This material was a perfect choice for wrapping glass bottles or glass lanterns.

1874: Corrugated Machine Invention

Who invented the cardboard box?
Following Jones’ invention in 1874, G. Smyth developed a corrugated machine for massive production, which helped Oliver Long bring innovation to this corrugated board by adding curly liner sheets on both sides.

1879: Evolution in Cardboard Invention

We see evolution in this invention in the same 19th century, in 1879, when a Scottish native, Robert Gair, invented the pre-cut cardboard box. This box was easy to fold and used to store various items. For shipping and general uses, this box was considered an ideal option.

The corrugated board method we use today is based on the first corrugated machine invented by G. Smith, which led to the first-ever invention of a pre-cut cardboard box in bulk in 1890 by Robert Gair.

How were Prefabricated Boxes Invented? A Big Breakthrough

The idea for the fabricated box invention arose from an unexpected accident when Robert Gair, a Scotsman and Brooklyn printer and paper-bag maker, was working on a job to fulfil an order by printing seed bags.

Use a metal ruler to crease the bags. But by mistake, it cut them through, which gave Gair the idea to crease and cut the paper, which transformed prefabricated boxes.

Read More: How to Make Waterproof Cardboard for Your DIY Projects?

Key Cardboard Inventors in History Who Shaped Cardboard

The history of cardboard is an interesting journey of innovation from a simple paper-based material into corrugated cardboard packaging that led to its adoption for daily life and shipping purposes. Take a quick look at an overview of its history.

Top 4 Cardboard Producers

1. China

China is the world's largest cardboard producer, with over 25 million tons in 2022 for industries including E-commerce, electronics, and food.

2. USA

The US is the second-largest producer with 66.93 million tons produced in 2022 for retail and logistics.

3. Japan

Japan ranks third with 23.67 million tons and serves various industires.

4. Germany

Germany is the fourth player with 4 million tons.

How Cardboard is Being Used Today?

Who is the largest producer of cardboard?
Currently, worldwide production of cardboard exceeds 72 million tons, with China being the largest producer. 

Cardboard is highly recyclable and is commonly used in manufacturing boxes for shipping and delivering goods.

Today, above 80% of products are being packed in shipping boxes made from cardboard including folding cartons, cereal boxes, pizza boxes, mailer boxes, and many others.

What Is Cardboard Used For?

Cardboard, known for its versatility and durability, is a widely used packaging material in various industries, including retail, pharma, cosmetics, food, and beverages.

Packaging

Cardboard is widely used for storing, shipping, and packaging various items, products, and goods, ensuring durability and protection. Even for moving boxes, it is used to manufacture folding cartons to pack when you are moving.

Display and Signage

You can create posters, promotional displays, and point-of-sale signage.

Craft and DIY Projects

Cardboard also serves as a thick paper material for your home decor, crafts, and DIY projects.

Food Packaging

Many food restaurants are taking advantage of this sustainable cardboard for creating pizza boxes, takeout containers, or cereal boxes.

Protective Inserts or Dividers

To protect your fragile and delicate items in larger boxes, cardboard inserts or dividers are placed, ensuring complete protection during transportation. Whether you need to create custom boxes, crafts, DIY projects, or display signage, cardboard is the one covering everything.

For storage purposes, you can also use this paper material to create boxes to help you pack your clothing or valuable items in them. Last but not least is the sustainability of cardboard which became a reason for making cardboard popular in every industry. This is not the end. A lot more cardboard uses are yet to be uncovered we will discuss them some other time.

Conclusion

Envisioning the future of cardboard - cardboard is capturing its marketplace. Cardboard was, is, and will be. Through this blog, we have endeavoured to highlight cardboard from every aspect, from its origin to the innovations brought by talented minds and its various uses. It is expected to see new horizons in cardboard that will revolutionize many industries in the near future. Looking at a better tomorrow for cardboard, many industries are focusing on using cardboard to manufacture various types of packaging for their products. If you are seeking a reliable packaging supplier for cardboard boxes or need any type of packaging made from cardboard, head forward to Custom Product Packaging where you will find no limit to produce boxes and other cardboard made products at economical prices with free shipping all across the USA and Canada. Want to contact us? Email us at orders@customproductpackaging.com. Our customer support team is available 24/7 for your assistance.