Consolidated Statements Of Shareholders' Equity (USD $) In Thousands	Common Stock [Member]	Retained Earnings [Member]	Trust For Savings Restoration Plan [Member]	Foreign Currency Translation [Member]	Gain (Loss) On Derivative Financial Instruments [Member]	Pension & Other Post-Retirement Benefit Adjust. [Member]	Total
Balance at Dec. 31, 2012	$ 15,195	$ 460,805	$ (1,401)	$ 131	$ 993	$ (103,471)	$ 372,252
Net income		5,567					5,567
Foreign currency translation adjustment (net of tax benefit of $592)				(12,880)			(12,880)
Derivative financial instruments adjustment (net of tax benefit of $314)					(540)		(540)
Amortization of prior service costs and net gains or losses (net of tax of $2,673)						4,625	4,625
Cash dividends declared ($.14 per share)		(4,521)					(4,521)
Stock-based compensation expense	1,365						1,365
Issued upon exercise of stock options (including related income tax benefits of $132) & other	2,251						2,251
Tredegar common stock purchased by trust for savings restoration plan		9	(9)
Balance at Jun. 30, 2013	$ 18,811	$ 461,860	$ (1,410)	$ (12,749)	$ 453	$ (98,846)	$ 368,119