Types of Butcher Paper

Butcher paper is a type of sturdy, thick paper used to wrap fish and meats. It is commonly used by fishmongers and butchers to maintain the freshness of raw meat. Butcher paper is also utilized in various craft projects and its rolls are common to art departments and schools. Its durability, sturdiness and availability make it an inexpensive alternate to other types of craft paper. There are various kinds of butcher paper and the most common types are detailed below.

Waxed Butcher Paper

Waxed butcher paper, or wax paper, is a butcher roll that is coated with wax to make it moisture proof. According to the book, "Inscription and Erasure" by Roger Chartier, the process of oil or wax parching a paper to make it moisture proof or semi translucent goes back to medieval times. Waxed butcher paper is commonly used for storing food items, such as meat and cookies, and in cooking. Other uses include making water-resistant paper boats and for the removal of wax stains from carpets and fabric by laying a sheet of wax paper over a stain and running a hot iron over it.

Unwaxed Butcher Paper

Unwaxed butcher paper is used more commonly in arts and crafts than in food storage. Crafting paper is typically unwaxed to allow resistance free painting and drawing. Unwaxed paper is available in large rolls and is used for posters, murals, decorations, gift wrap, banners and large school project drawings. It is sold in a variety of colors and patterns -- ranging from floral designs, geometric shapes to plain unwaxed paper. Unwaxed paper is used in a variety of home improvement and craft projects.

Freezer Paper

Freezer paper is a type of butcher paper that is used to store food items in the freezer for extended periods. Although its primary purpose is to preserve raw or cooked foods and prevent freezer burn, it is also used by crafters in a variety of projects. It can be purchased in supermarkets, hobby stores, craft stores and online. Freezer paper is similar to waxed paper. The only difference in freezer and waxed paper is that freezer paper is coated with wax on one side while waxed paper is coated on both sides. Other uses of freezer paper include freezer paper stenciling, appliqué, paper piecing, hand sewing and fabric printing.

References

• Butcher Paper
• Freezing Food - Butcher Paper
• Holiday Gift Ideas From Butcher Paper
• Removing Stains From Linen