35 Paper Business Ideas You Can Start Today [2024]
Interested in starting a paper business in 2024?
We put together 35 of the best paper businesses you can start in today.
For each business idea, we’ll show you real-world examples of other paper businesses to help you see what it really takes.
Here's the full list:
1. Start a Greeting Cards Business
People use greeting cards to mark births, deaths, graduations, anniversaries, and other parties or events.
If you love helping people celebrate special occasions, starting a greeting card business can be a great business opportunity.
When starting a greeting card business, choose a potential niche and write a business plan.
Then, find an ideal spot to sell the greeting cards.
For instance, you can offer greeting card design and posting services, so customers can choose the best designs and post greeting cards online.
How much you can make: $1,000 — $100,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $8,750 (?)
How long does it take to build: 77 days (?)
Joker Greeting sells unique prank gifts, including a non-stop musical birthday card, an idea raised by the founders visiting their mom's house, having no website or marketing and yet raising $92,073 on Kickstarter in 30 days due to being picked up by media, enabling them to sell 15,000 units in the first year, owned SEO for their niche, selling almost 40,000 units in 2017 and expected to reach 50,000 to 60,000 in 2018 with a small team, using Shopify and various social media channels with lots of organic traffic.
2. Start a stationery business
A stationery business sells stationery products such as paper goods, notebooks, greeting cards, and envelopes.
The best part about starting a stationery business is that it's relatively easy and inexpensive to get started.
Since there are so many different types of products available in this industry, there are endless opportunities for creativity, customization, and expansion.
You could even start out small by selling your products on Etsy or eBay before opening up an actual storefront.
How much you can make: $200 — $260,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $1,250 (?)
How long does it take to build: 52 days (?)
Chasing Planner Peace is a planner company that has expanded from selling planner inserts on Etsy, to offering a one-stop shop customizable planner experience with over 300 inserts, a planner line, and various other related products, gaining a monthly revenue of around $25,000 at its busiest time of year.
3. Start a banana paper making business
4. Start a paper exports business
5. Start a paper bags business
6. Become a newspaper publisher
A newspaper publisher manages the design, editing, and production process with the help of proofreaders, printers, and editors.
In small newspapers, the publication owner is usually the publisher.
To become a newspaper publisher, there aren’t any formal learning requirements, but you may consider undertaking a bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications, writing, or business.
7. Start a paper crafts designing business
A paper crafts designing business involves creating handmade items such as greeting cards, invitations, scrapbook layouts, and other decorative items using paper and other materials. It is a business that allows creativity and imagination to flow as entrepreneurs design and create unique and personalized items for their clients.
To start a paper craft designing business, entrepreneurs must have a good eye for aesthetics and a solid attention to detail. They will also need to be proficient in various crafting tools such as scissors, glue, and punches.
To run a successful paper craft designing business, entrepreneurs should focus on building a solid brand and marketing their products effectively. This can be done through social media, online marketplaces, and participating in local craft fairs and events. It is also essential to continuously learn new techniques and stay updated on the latest trends in the industry.
In addition, good customer service, working efficiently, and meeting deadlines are crucial for the success of paper crafts designing business. It is also essential to price products somewhat and offers a variety of options for clients.
Overall, a paper craft designing business allows entrepreneurs to express their creativity and turn their passion for crafting into a successful business.
8. Start a book store
Starting a bookstore is a great way to start a small business.
Bookstores are found anywhere, from the smallest towns to the largest cities. Perhaps you have thought of running your bookstore . People need to read and buy books, and that’s been true for thousands of years. A bookstore is also a great central location where people can browse and purchase books.
Listed are the steps to start a bookstore business.
- Register your business
- Get all required permits and licenses.
- Organize your business operational flow
- Promote your business
How much you can make: $30,000 — $50,000/month
How long does it take to build: 212 days (?)
OrderOfBooks.com is a website that lists books in both publication and chronological order and generates six-figure revenue after starting off as a resource for the founder and his friends, serving as a valuable resource for book readers.
9. Start a paper business
10. Start an exercise notebook making business
Tired of endless options in office supplies that don't quite meet your needs? Consider starting an exercise notebook making business. This venture involves designing, producing, and selling customized notebooks tailored for specific functions, from study sessions to gym workouts.
Creating these bespoke notebooks allows you to combine creativity with practicality. You'll need to source quality paper, design engaging and functional layouts, and establish a reliable printing process. The initial investment might include design software, printing equipment, and marketing materials.
This business is ideal for those who value both aesthetics and utility. An exercise notebook making business can cater to niche markets, offering products that stand out in a sea of generic alternatives. If you're detail-oriented and passionate about stationary, this could be a fulfilling and profitable business venture.
How much you can make: $6,000/month
The Paper Saver is a sustainable notebook that reduces paper waste by utilizing used paper as pages, and has grown YOY on an average of 20% since its 2015 launch, with an expanded range including the Leather Paper Saver and the Sparkle Paper Saver for Kids.
11. Start a wall paper fixing business
This is of course another construction related business for civil engineers. With wallpapers that are produced in 3D format, apartments are made more beautiful and highly presentable. This business remains one of the simple, easy to go into and lucrative business in the construction related businesses. Successful business people in this line are good marketers of their services, and they have strong networking skills.
12. Start a mobile paper shredding business
13. Start an egg tray making business
14. Start an envelopes and files business
Finding a niche in the everyday office supplies market might be your next big move. Envelopes and files are universally needed, whether for businesses, schools, or individuals. This venture involves producing or sourcing a range of envelopes and filing products, then selling them directly to consumers or businesses.
Starting this business requires a solid supply chain and understanding of paper products. Developing a network of reliable suppliers is crucial. Your focus will be on creating a diverse product range and effective marketing strategy to attract customers.
This industry presents a steady demand, making it a reliable business choice. Whether you choose to sell online or through a physical storefront, there's room to grow. For those looking to enter the office supplies market, starting an envelopes and files business can be a practical and rewarding endeavor.
How much you can make: $5,200/month
The Match Artist helps singles take amazing photos for their online dating profiles through a 3-hour executive shoot, coaching, and email course, pioneering a new genre of photography, with an average monthly revenue of $5,000-$6,000 and a plan to double down on paid ad campaigns in the future.
15. Start a paper and stationary distribution business
Launch a paper and stationery distribution business and become the backbone for offices, schools, and creative professionals. In simple terms, this business involves supplying a variety of paper products and stationery items to different customers.
The concept may seem straightforward, but the demand for high-quality, reliable supplies is constant and considerable. You’ll need to build relationships with manufacturers, manage inventory, and handle logistics to ensure timely delivery to your clients.
This venture appeals because it taps into an evergreen market; businesses always need paper and stationery. If you're someone who values organization and has an eye for detail, this could be a fulfilling way to generate steady income while serving essential needs in your community.
16. Start a paper cup making business
17. Start a paper recycling business
According to statistics, the demand for recycled paper is increasing at a CAGR of more than 7% in developing counties.
The high machinery cost and inefficient collection of waste paper are reasons behind the growing demand.
As a result, the primary focus of the local paper recyclers is the establishment of proper collection and segregation systems to facilitate waste paper collection. Therefore, starting a paper recycling business can be profitable.
How much you can make: $16,000/month
How long does it take to build: 100 days (?)
Bagitan Packaging in China started out as a thermography paper roll business and has since expanded to become leaders in the packaging industry with annual net revenue of $200,000 and over 50 employees, thanks to digital marketing and a focus on SEO.
18. Start a paper manufacturer
Numerous businesses mesh well with the typical small business model of low overhead, low inventory, and low to moderate output. A paper manufacturing business is one such type of enterprise. There is a built-in marketplace for your product with little work involved in marketing. Paper is one of the most widely used materials with a wide range of applications in our day-to-day life. It also finds applications across industries such as packaging, publishing, etc.
Some popular paper products manufacturing business ideas include tissue paper manufacturing, kraft paper manufacturing, stone paper manufacturing, thermal paper manufacturing, butter paper manufacturing, art paper manufacturing, seed paper manufacturing, notebook manufacturing, and many more.
19. Start a packaging box making business
Considering a sustainable and practical business idea that's rooted in everyday needs? Think about starting a packaging box making business. Packaging boxes are essential for countless industries, from ecommerce to food delivery, which keeps demand steady year-round.
In simple terms, you’ll manufacture boxes of various sizes and materials to cater to your clients' specific needs. The beauty of this business lies in its versatility — you can offer custom designs, eco-friendly materials, and even bulk solutions. Opening a packaging box business requires some initial investment in machinery and raw materials, and you'll need to navigate logistics and supplier relationships.
As more companies strive for unique branding and eco-conscious packaging solutions, venturing into this field could position you uniquely in the market. It’s a hands-on business where hard work can directly translate into tangible outcomes, making it fulfilling and rewarding.
How much you can make: $500,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $1,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
OXO Packaging is a successful custom packaging manufacturer generating an impressive $500,000 per month in revenue with around 40-50 orders per month, and aims to become the top packaging manufacturer in the USA and Australia.
20. Start a plate making business
21. Start a paper jewelry making business
22. Start a paper miling business
23. Start a paper soap making business
24. Start a paper items wholesaling business
25. Start a napkins business
How much does it cost to start: $630 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
26. Start a bookbinding and repair service
Bookbinding and repair service is a business idea that involves providing customers with services to repair their damaged books or bind new ones. To start this business, you will need a space, such as a workshop or a studio, and the necessary tools and materials, including adhesives, fabrics, and paper. You will also need to have some knowledge of bookbinding techniques and be able to work with different types of materials, such as leather, cloth, and paper.
To operate the business successfully, you will need to market your services to potential customers and be able to handle a variety of repair and binding projects. You will also need to be able to handle customer inquiries and orders promptly and professionally. It may be helpful to offer additional services, such as custom bookbinding or restoration of antique books, to expand your customer base and increase your profits.
For a bookbinding and repair service business success, it is essential to have strong attention to detail and a passion for books. With dedication and hard work, you can build a thriving business that helps preserve and restore valuable books for customers.
27. Start a tissue paper making business
Think paper products are mundane? Think again. Starting a tissue paper making business can be a rewarding and profitable venture. At its core, this business revolves around producing various types of tissue paper, such as facial tissues, paper towels, and napkins.
The demand for these disposable products is consistently high across homes, restaurants, and businesses. The process involves acquiring raw materials like paper pulp, setting up machinery for production, and ensuring quality control to meet industry standards. Success in this field requires attention to detail, efficient production methods, and smart marketing strategies.
What makes this idea compelling is the enduring market need and the potential for scaling. By tapping into innovative packaging and branding, you can differentiate your products in a crowded marketplace. If you’re looking for a business with steady demand and room for creativity, tissue paper making might be the right fit.
How much you can make: $521,000/month
How long does it take to build: 2880 days (?)
A hygiene solutions company founded by Jonathan Bradford now earns £500k/month, after years of developing a wall-mounted antibacterial wipe dispenser that is used in health clubs, workplaces, and in over 100 locations worldwide, and also developing an electronic washroom hygiene monitor.
28. Start a paper name tag business
In our increasingly digital world, the humble paper name tag remains an essential tool for events, conferences, and meetups. Starting a paper name tag business means catering to organizations and event planners who need customizable, quick-turnaround name tags.
Your business would involve designing, printing, and supplying name tags that are professional and personalizable. It’s a straightforward venture requiring minimal startup costs—mostly for a good printer and high-quality paper. This isn’t just about printing names; it’s about creating first impressions and facilitating connections.
There’s a consistent demand for name tags across various industries, from corporate events to local club meetings. By offering quick, reliable service and diverse design options, you can tap into a market always in need of these indispensable items. If you’re organized, have an eye for design, and want to manage a physical product, this could be the right fit for you.
How much you can make: $515/month
How much does it cost to start: $3,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 730 days (?)
Medical Bag Tags, LLC creates customizable medical and allergy awareness bag tags for personal items while raising awareness of medical and allergy conditions, all while overcoming personal tragedy and balancing being a single mom of 8 children, and is now in talks with a possible pharmaceutical investor to expand and grow the business.
29. Start a paper prototyping business
30. Start a paper flowers production business
31. Start a model kit business
32. Start a paper straws business
33. Start a cartoon box recycling business
34. Start an architecture firm
An architecture firm offers designing, preparation of construction documents, and administration. Architects also offer feasibility studies, architectural programming, and project management on behalf of their clients.
If you are an architect and wish to start an architecture firm, then you would have to research the market and identify a potential niche based on your unique selling points. Then, determine the most suitable business structure and lay the foundations with a good business plan. Determine what competitors could be doing wrong and how you can stand out from the crowd.
How much you can make: $63,500/month
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
Founder, Dustin Feider, shares how he started O2 Treehouse Commercial, a custom-built treehouse business generating $63K/month, which has been featured in over 85 publications and has a two-year backlog of projects waiting, along with the launch of Treewalkers, a treehouse hospitality franchise seeking to reconnect people with nature on a larger scale through a crowdfunding equity campaign via StartEngine.
35. Start a paper modeling business
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Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
