by Scott Katz | Jan 15, 2025 | Cannabis Packaging
In the cannabis industry, blister packaging can be an effective option, depending on your product. However, this may not fit your brand or product selection best. We invite you to follow along as we lay out everything you need to know about blister packs.
What is Blister Packaging?
Blister pack packaging is created by heating a plastic sheet and shaping it into a bubble or pocket, known as the “blister.” This encases the entirety of your product, allowing customers to see what they’re purchasing visually.
Traditionally, blister packaging has a cardboard back, known as “face seal blister.” The plastic blister sits in front of the cardboard and contains the product. On the cardboard are elements of your brand identity and other important information.
If your product has a consistent shape, you can uniformly shape the blister to match the product’s outline. However, if your product doesn’t have consistency, you can opt for other shapes (e.g., rectangular, oval, etc.).
Can You Use Blister Packs for Cannabis Products?
Some cannabis products incorporate blister card packaging. The most popular are vaping products, where the blister is made in the shape of a disposable vape pen or cartridge.
Some brands also incorporate blisters for concentrate items. Usually, the concentrate is in a transparent jar which is then blistered onto cardboard.
While you can get creative with your custom blister box, not all products will benefit from this type of packaging. For example, customers prefer flower and edibles in other packaging types, such as Mylar bags.
What are the Types of Blister Packaging?
Blister packaging can appear in the following ways:
Face Seal Blister
The plastic blister is shaped to fit around the product and then heat-sealed to a cardboard backing. This form of blister packaging is relatively cost-effective, making it ideal for high-volume products.
Full-Face Seal Blister
The blister encases both the product and the card backing entirely. The plastic is secured to the card either by heat sealing or by sliding it through extra plastic reinforcements on the sides.
This design enhances the packaging’s durability, by making the corners more resistant to bending while also improving their appearance.
Full Card Blister
Similar to a full-face seal blister, this packaging covers the entire card. However, instead of being heat-sealed, it features flanges that wrap around the edges of the card. The card is slid into position and occasionally secured with staples.
Trapped Blister
A trapped blister is similar to a traditional blister pack, but with an added layer of cardboard in front of the plastic, shaped to fit around the blister. This design secures the plastic between the two pieces of cardboard, with the top layer die-cut to hold the product snugly.
Since it doesn’t rely on heat-sealing, this method is more cost-effective. It also enhances tamper resistance, as any attempt to remove the product visibly damages the outer cardboard. Additionally, it offers a more polished appearance by minimizing exposure to plastic.
Clamshell
Clamshell packaging, also known as clam packaging or clam packs, replaces the cardboard backing with a hinged plastic design, connected at the side or the base. Some clamshells are crafted to stand upright on store shelves, while others include a hole for hanging on racks.
They can feature a snap-close button or be heat-sealed for added security. The plastic bubble may have a uniform shape on both sides or vary in size and form to accommodate the product inside.
Pros and Cons of Blister Packaging
If you run a cannabis business and are considering blister packs for your products, here are some things to consider:
Pros
- Eco-friendly – All blister packs are made with plastic and cardboard, both recyclable materials.
- Lightweight – Blister and clam packaging are very lightweight, reducing transportation costs.
- Protection – Blister packs protect the product from damage and keep it clean. They also reveal tampering, unlike boxes that can be opened and reclosed unnoticed.
- Theft Protection – Designed in unique shapes, making it difficult for shoplifters to conceal.
- Visually Appealing – Blister packs showcase the product directly, catching the customer’s eye and making it stand out compared to boxed items.
Cons
- Plastic Waste – While plastic is recyclable, if consumers are not mindful, blister packs can create a lot of waste.
- Time-Intensive Production – Takes longer to manufacture than other packaging options.
Final Word
Blister packaging is a very effective option for certain cannabis products, such as vape pens and cartridges. This is thanks to the fact that it gives your product transparency other brands may not offer.
Interested in using blister packs for your next product? Not sure where to begin? Custom 420 is here to help! We invite you to reach out through our contact form to learn more.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the problem with blister packaging?The only problems with blister packaging are they can be pricier and require more time for production than other packaging options.
Is blister packaging cheap?Blister packs are considered one of the most cost-effective packaging options. This is thanks to the fact that they’re made from paperboard and plastic, two inexpensive materials.
What is the point of a blister pack?Since the plastic blister allows transparency for customers, it tends to leave a solid first impression. Furthermore, blister packaging allows you to get creative with your customization and showcase your brand identity.
by Scott Katz | Jan 8, 2025 | Cannabis Jars
When it comes to marijuana packaging, Mylar bags are the standard due to their convenience and affordability. However, high-end/craft or boutique companies use cannabis flower jars. With that, you need more than just protective packaging to stand out in this industry. Here are our top flower cannabis jar trends for brands in 2025.
Legal Requirements
Cannabis laws and regulations are always changing. With that, so are the legal requirements for packaging. Still, there are some universal codes most state regulations follow. These include:
- Child-resistant features that pass the proper testing.
- Coherent warning labels (i.e. THC or CBD content).
- Batch quantity and product date labels.
- Reference to lab test results (to provide customers with contamination levels, cannabinoid profiles, etc.).
- Guidelines for use and cautions.
While all cannabis products in the U.S. must have these features, your state may require further label compliance. To get a better idea of what’s expected from you, we recommend researching your state’s regulations.
Product Preservation
It’s no secret that cannabis quality is only getting better – a trend that’s been going on for years. However, to maintain the quality of your product, you’ll need high-quality cannabis flower jar packaging.
So, what exactly does this entail? Most companies agree you need an airtight seal and to prevent UV light exposure. For such requirements, opaque and UV jars are a solid option. They’re multilayered and can preserve the freshness and potency of your cannabis flower.
Still, these come at a higher price than other packaging options, such as Mylar bags or plastic jars. However, we’d argue that a higher price point is worth the investment. Since high-quality cannabis flower is continuing to trend in 2025, it’s natural that it should come in a premium-quality container.
As the cannabis industry matures, customers become more aware of what great quality looks like. That said, they keep a keen eye out for how a product is packaged and if the preservation of the flower is kept in mind. Under such circumstances, many brands have also matched opaque and UV jars with humidity control packets.
Sustainable Sourcing
Going green is essential as we step into the second half of this decade. So, how can a cannabis business incorporate this?
While you want to ensure you have eco-friendly manufacturing processes, you will also want to consider sourcing sustainable packaging. Initially, you may look into recyclable materials, such as cardboard and glass. However, if you really want to stand out, you should go beyond this.
Some brands make eco-friendly their identity, going as far as to give back to the environment with every sale they make (i.e. one tree planted for every product sold). Such practices are a great marketing strategy as they make customers feel involved in something larger.
Custom Branding
Speaking of brand identity, you want to ensure your packaging matches your core values. Naturally, this requires you to get a bit creative. Some companies stick their cannabis flower jars in a die-cut box. Others get tech-savvy with their packaging, featuring QR codes with important information about the product (i.e. strain, effects, etc.).
If this is your first product and you’re still working out the design elements, there’s a lot to consider here. Some brands go for a minimalist appeal whereas others are bright and colorful. You really want to consider your target audience and what they expect from your cannabis packaging.
Final Word
Are you new to the industry and not sure where to begin with your cannabis flower jars? No problem! Custom 420 is here for entrepreneurs like you.
We offer a wide selection of wholesale custom cannabis packaging. Furthermore, we have an in-house design team that can capture your vision for your next product.
Want to get started? We invite you to reach out through our contact form.
Custom Cannabis Jars FAQs
What jars are best for curing cannabis?Glass jars are an ideal choice for curing cannabis due to their durability and resistance to outside chemicals, moisture, and light. That is, as long as they’re stored properly.
What size jar is best for storing cannabis?This depends on how much cannabis you’re storing. Since you operate a business, it’s natural to have a large product selection. As such, you’d want to buy large jars for storage purposes.
However, if you’re asking this question in packaging concerns, this depends on how much room your product needs. Cannabis flower prefers having space to breathe – by jamming a lot of flower into a small package, you risk damaging your buds.
How long will cannabis last in a jar?Generally, cannabis will last between 12 to 18 months when stored in a jar that’s placed in a cool and dry environment.
by Scott Katz | Jan 1, 2025 | Cannabis Jars
Child-resistant jars have become a popular option for cannabis flower packaging. However, if your brand plans to incorporate these, you need to be aware of federal and state regulations for packaging.
Child-Resistant Jar Packaging Requirements
On a federal level, the Poison Prevention Packaging Act (PPPA) offers standard guidelines for child-resistant packaging (CRP) in the United States.
However, different states have additional guidelines for the cannabis industry. For this reason, businesses need to be aware of state and federal regulations.
CRP Laws and Regulations
Beyond the PPPA, there are three main bodies of law business owners need to keep in mind:
- The Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) – safeguards consumers from injuries and fatalities caused by hazardous substances and unsafe household items (i.e. toys and appliances). It oversees the safety standards for a broad array of consumer products.
- The Federal Hazardous Substances Act (FHSA) – covers hazardous substances (i.e. poisons, corrosives, and flammable materials). It mandates clear warning labels and instructions on such products, bans the sale of certain dangerous substances, and requires CRP to enhance safety.
- The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) – specifies the requirements for utilizing CRP for household pesticide products or devices.
CRP Requirements
For a glass jar to be considered child-resistant, the packaging must meet the following criteria:
- Child Testing – Packaging must undergo testing with a panel of children aged 4 to 10 years, with at least 80% unable to open it within 10 minutes.
- Adult Testing – A panel of adults must also test the packaging, with at least 80% successfully opening it within the same 10-minute timeframe.
- Repeatability – The testing process must yield consistent results when repeated, ensuring reliability.
Differences Between Child-Resistant and Non-Child-Resistant Jars
Simply put, a non-child-resistant jaris unable to pass PPPA testing. In other words, children can easily open it and access the contents inside.
Naturally, when it comes to marijuana products, this poses a threat to the child’s safety. As a result, all legalized states require cannabis products in child-resistant packaging.
So, what are the requirements for child-resistant glass jars? Your packaging should include the following:
- A closure designed to prevent children under five from easily opening it.
- A leak-proof, airtight, and spill-resistant design.
- Tamper-resistant caps often feature a push-and-turn mechanism that is challenging for children to open.
Why You Should Choose Glass Cannabis Jars Over Other Packaging Options
Of course, you have other child-resistant packaging options when it comes to preparing a cannabis product (i.e. Mylar bags). Still, some glass jars’ benefits may pique your interest over these other options.
1.) Preserves Freshness
Glass is non-porous and inert, meaning it doesn’t interact with the contents, preserving product quality over time. This ensures your cannabis products stay fresh and potent when stored properly.
2.) Visible to Customers
Glass allows customers to see your product. Naturally, this can leave a better first impression than well-designed packaging and become a significant selling point. Furthermore, transparency may build consumer trust and showcase your product’s quality.
3.) Recyclability
Glass is an eco-friendly solution as it’s 100% recyclable. Within the cannabis industry, more customers have become concerned with sustainable packaging. This makes glass a great option to stand out among the competition.
4.) Versatility
Glass jars give you the ability for full customization, from coloring to shaping to sizing. This allows you to replicate your brand identity directly with your product.
Final Word
While it’s not difficult to meet your state’s requirements for child-resistant jars, it’s understandable if you want to ensure effective packaging. That’s where Custom 420 comes in!
Our team has studied the ins and outs of the cannabis industry, ensuring our packaging options meet state and federal regulations. Furthermore, we offer many customization options so your products match your brand.
Want to learn more? We invite you to reach out through our contact form.
Child-Resistant Jars FAQs
What is an example of a child-resistant container?The most common example of a child-resistant container is a medicine bottle with a “push-down and turn” cap.
What are child-proof containers?“Child-proof” containers technically don’t exist, as no container can completely prevent children’s access. However, a “child-resistant” container is designed to be difficult for a child to open.
Are dispensary jars smell-proof?Since child-resistant glass jars are airtight, they’re also smell-proof when properly closed.
by Scott Katz | Dec 26, 2024 | Cannabis Jars
While there’s no such thing as a “smell-proof” jar, these containers are an optimal option for mitigating the smell of cannabis products. If you’re a cannabis business owner, it’s in your interest to check out these storage options and what customization is available to you.
What Makes Jars Popular for Marijuana Storage?
For business owners and customers, Mason jars have become a staple of cannabis storage. The reasons are as follows:
- They’re Affordable and Accessible – Whether you need to purchase wholesale or quickly contain your stash, mason jars are an inexpensive option almost at many retail locations.
- Marketing Appeal – Jars provide two benefits if you want to capture your brand identity: 1.) They’re completely customizable and 2.) Their transparency displays the quality of your product.
- Airtight – Since mason jars are airtight, they keep cannabis flower fresh for a long period. Some use these containers as a way to cure weed.
Are Glass Jars Smell-Proof?
Admittedly, Mason jars are not 100% smell-proof, no cannabis container is. Still, they are an effective option.
The reason is Mason jars are airtight and help prevent smell from escaping. However, airtight does not equal smell-proof, especially if a jar is consistently opened and closed. Rather, it means they’ll diminish the smell of cannabis within your environment.
Still, if you want a cannabis container that prevents odors, jars are one of your best options. For example, Mylar bags are more prone to leak odor once the seal is broken.
How to Store Cannabis in a Jar
If you own a cannabis business, you want to ensure you store marijuana inside of these containers properly. This is the most effective way to mitigate smell while promoting the highest-quality storage for your product.
The most important thing is to ensure your jar is clean, dry, and not overfilled. In a dry environment, you ensure no dampness to your product, which could lead to mold. And if you avoid overstuffing, you won’t crush the cannabis product, allowing it to stay fresh and potent.
All tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) products should be stored in a cool, dark environment. This is because heat and light can degrade THC and terpenes over time. So, once your cannabis product is packaged, make sure to have the right living quarters for its longevity.
Other Packaging Options
If you want to up your game as a cannabis business, there are two other options to consider:
- Smell-Proof Containers – There are jars specifically designed for cannabis storage that are more adept at holding in marijuana odors. These are what we offer at Custom 420 as we want to ensure the freshness and quality of your product.
- UV-Protected Glass Jars – While similar to Mason jars, UV protection ensures your cannabis product is also protected against harmful light.
Final Word
While there’s no such thing as a smell-proof jar for weed, Mason jars and other container options do a great job of locking in odors. If you’re a business owner and need help packaging your cannabis product, Custom 420 is here to help!
Beyond offering wholesale custom container options, we also provide design services to ensure your packaging meets your brand identity. Want to learn more? We invite you to reach out through our contact form.
Smell-Proof Jars FAQs
What types of jars are smell-proof?Technically, no jar is “smell-proof.” However, Mason jars are most famous for mitigating the smell of cannabis.
Are dispensary jars smell-proof?Dispensary jars are made for cannabis storage. Therefore, they’re more effective at containing the odor of marijuana compared to Mason jars.
Are clip-top jars smell-proof?No jar is “smell-proof.” However, clip-top jars create an airtight environment that prevents smell from escaping.
by Scott Katz | Dec 18, 2024 | Cannabis Packaging, Vape Hardware
When it comes to custom vape hardware shipping boxes, you have a lot of options. From minimalism to luxury, you want to consider your buyer’s persona and what they look for in a vape box.
1.) Minimalist Design
Minimalist packaging is preferable when it comes to vape packaging. The simplicity and clarity are more likely to appeal to a mass audience and are preferable if you want to stray from stereotypical vape culture. If you plan to incorporate a minimalist design, you’ll want to consider the following:
- Neutral colors
- Simple typography
- Sleek finishes
Still, minimalism goes beyond aesthetics, it also incorporates simple functionality. By reducing unnecessary packaging materials, you make your product easier for the customer to open and reduce costs on your end.
2.) Personalized Packaging
When it comes to custom vape hardware shipping boxes, you have a lot of customization options. These include:
- Designs tailored to specific markets
- Engaging unboxing experience
- Exclusive artwork
- Limited-time events
When personalizing your packaging, you want to consider your brand identity. Who is your target audience? What do they think when they see your products? And what would they expect out of your packaging?
Naturally, the answers to these questions vary from brand to brand. Your marketing team should take some time to consider these factors.
Still, if your team struggles to come up with a comprehensive packaging design, you may want to consider customer-designed packaging. This is a great way to interact with your audience and discover what their interests in your brand are.
3.) Eco-Friendly Packaging
In the cannabis sector, many consumers prefer eco-friendly options. Therefore, more and more brands are developing sustainable packaging solutions. These may include:
- Biodegradable packaging
- Recyclable materials
- Reusable components
Still, beyond customer appeal, eco-friendly solutions are a great way to reduce your environmental impact. A business ethic we salute any brand that considers.
4.) Luxury Packaging
With two-thirds of Americans in support of recreational legalization, the market has matured to demand luxury and premium products. So, what does this look like in the presentation?
- Embossed designs
- Metallic foils
- Soft-touch coatings
These elements will give your packaging a premium feel. Furthermore, they provide a multi-sensory experience for customers.
5.) Coloring and Die-Cut Shapes
If you want to capture consumer attention, you may want to opt for a specific color palette and packaging shapes. These will vary depending on your brand identity – however, most cannabis vape brands opt for:
- Bold and bright colors
- Geometric patterns
- Unique shapes
Off that last point, die-cut boxes are a great way to make a solid first impression. Think about it – most vape brands simply opt for a rectangular box. If your product comes in a shape/size that accommodates your brand and customer, you’re more likely to leave a lasting impression.
6.) Transparent Packaging
Sometimes, consumers want to see the product before purchasing it. The most efficient way is through transparent (or windowed) packaging. This is a great option if you have high-end vaping products matched with quality customization.
Furthermore, transparent packaging displays honesty in your product. In other words, you’re more likely to reassure customer trust.
Final Word
There are a lot of elements to custom vape hardware shipping packaging boxes. If you’re unsure of the direction your brand should take, Custom 420 can help!
Our in-house design team creates the perfect customization for your brand identity and our manufacturing process ensures you’ll have more than enough supply promptly. Want to get started? Reach out through our contact form.
Custom Vape Hardware Shipping Boxes FAQs
What are some custom vape boxes to meet vape trends?If you’d like to see custom box design trends, we invite you to check out our Custom Boxes pages.
How to design my own custom vape boxes for my brand?Through Custom 420, you can work with a team of designers to develop the perfect vape box for your product. From there, we’ll execute the manufacturing process for you.
