Tubes
A paper tube is a round, spiral-wound paperboard container with a lid, used for cosmetics, tea, candles, apparel and posters. We make 8 tube styles, most from 200 units, in 10 to 14 business days after you approve a free digital proof.
All paper tubes








Which one do you need?
| If you need | Start with | Why |
|---|---|---|
| A general retail tube | Paper tube with lid | slip-on cap, printed label or full wrap |
| Solid sticks and balms | Push up paper tube | disc inside pushes the product up |
| A premium gift tube | Telescoping tube | lid slides the full depth of the base |
| Tea or coffee | Tea tin style tube | tinplate bottom and metal slip lid |
| A candle jar | Candle tube | die-cut collar holds the glass still |
| Posters and prints | Shipping tube | spiral-wound kraft for rolled items |
Still between two? Send the product and its size and we will recommend a style with your quote, or ask Maya in chat. The box size calculator and free dielines help you size it first.
Questions about paper tubes
What are paper tubes made from?
Paper tubes are spiral-wound paperboard, wrapped in a printed label or a full printed wrap. The tea tin style tube adds a tinplate bottom and metal lid; the others are paperboard throughout.
Can a paper tube hold food?
Tea, coffee and dry goods are common. Tell us what goes in and whether it touches the tube, and we will confirm a suitable structure with your quote.
What is the difference between a telescoping tube and a tube with a lid?
A telescoping tube's lid slides the full depth over the base, so the closed tube shows one clean printed surface. A standard tube with lid has a shorter cap, which costs less and opens faster.
What is the minimum order for paper tubes?
Most tube styles start at 200 units. The lip balm tube starts at 500. Each product page shows its own minimum.
Ready to price your paper tubes?
Send the size and quantity for a quote and a dieline, usually within one business day. Design help and the Swatch Book of materials are free.