Packing paper for wrapping and filling

The paper does more work than the box. It is the cushion between one plate and the next, the filler that stops a carton from rattling and the wrap that keeps a lamp base from scratching. Plain packing paper has no printed ink, so it will not smudge on white china, light furniture or glass.

At a glance

• Unprinted sheets that leave no ink behind
• Wraps single pieces and fills empty space
• Used for dishes, glasses, lamps and framed art
• Wrapping supplies at 2277 Glendale Ave, Sparks

Why plain paper and not newspaper

Newsprint is cheap, but it rubs ink onto everything it touches, and the ink is hard to wash off pale dishes, light fabrics and painted pieces. Plain packing paper is clean, soft and smooth, and it crumples into filler that springs back. It is the standard wrap for a reason: it protects without staining.

The wrap that works

Wrapping one plate looks like a small thing, and the details matter.

1. Lay a sheet flat and set the item near one corner.
2. Roll the item toward the opposite corner so the paper covers it fully.
3. Fold the loose sides in as you roll, then tuck the ends under the item.
4. For a fragile piece, add a second sheet and wrap it again in the other direction.
5. Seal the bundle with a small strip of tape, and write the contents on the outside if it is a set.
6. Place the bundle in the box with the tucked end down.

Paper as filler

Crumpled paper fills the spaces around wrapped items. Make loose balls, not tight ones, because a loose ball cushions and a tight ball transmits shock. Fill the base of each box, the gaps between items, and the top layer, and confirm the load holds still by tilting the carton. Paper also lines drawers when you move dressers, and wraps small decor pieces that would get lost in a larger box.

How much a home uses

Kitchens use the most paper, since every plate, glass and bowl is wrapped. After that come living rooms, with their lamps and decor, then bedrooms. The packing calculator estimates carton counts, and as a rule of thumb it pays to buy more paper than you think, because leftover paper is useful for cleaning and unpacking. For specific rooms, read how to pack glasses and stemware and how to pack a kitchen.

Paper plus the right carton

Pair paper with the right box: a dish-pack box for tableware, a medium box for kitchenware and a roll of bubble wrap for the pieces that need more cushion.

Getting paper in Sparks

O'Brien's carries packing wrap or padding, boxes and tape at the office in Sparks, open Monday to Friday, 8 am to 5 pm, phone 775-359-6683. Ask for the standard or custom supply price sheet. Your free in-home estimate includes 10 free heavy-duty boxes, yours to keep.