Short answer: A cotton bag, tote bag and shopper are usually the same thing in practice: a carrier bag made of cotton. A real jute bag is made of jute fibre. For printing, three things matter: the fabric weight, the handle length and the printing method. Light bags suit trade fairs and large quantities, heavy qualities suit shops and long-term use.
Anyone who wants a cotton bag printed comes across all sorts of names. This article explains the terms and shows what to look for when choosing and printing.
Cotton bag, tote bag, jute bag: the terms
| Term | What it means | Material |
|---|---|---|
| Cotton bag | Carrier bag with two handles, the classic among promotional bags | Cotton, also as organic or recycled cotton |
| Tote bag | Another name for the cotton bag | Usually cotton |
| Jute bag | Sturdy shopping bag with a coarse, natural texture | Jute fibre, often with a laminated inside |
| Drawstring bag | Bag with a drawstring that is worn on the back | Cotton, polyester or rPET |
Fabric weight: from light to canvas
Fabric weight is given in grams per square metre (g/m²). It determines how sturdy the bag feels, how much it carries and how long it lasts.
- Light quality, around 140 g/m²: economical and suitable for trade fairs, events and large quantities.
- Medium quality: noticeably sturdier, for shops and as a business gift.
- Canvas, heavy quality: very strong, keeps its shape and is used for a long time.
A heavier bag costs more, but is reused more often. Your logo stays visible for longer as a result.
Handles, size and gusset
Long handles are carried over the shoulder, short ones in the hand. The common size is about 38 x 42 cm. A bottom or side gusset gives the bag more volume, for folders, bottles or groceries. Choose the size based on what has to fit inside.
Which printing method fits?
For a logo in one or two colours in larger quantities, screen printing is the usual choice. For multicolour designs, gradients and smaller runs, transfer printing such as DTF is suitable. More about the methods in the article Printing techniques compared.
Sustainable versions and certifications
Cotton bags are also available in organic cotton, recycled cotton and Fairtrade cotton. Look for recognised certifications such as OEKO-TEX®, GOTS or Fairtrade. More on this in the article Cotton, jute or non-woven? You can find the range in the category Cotton bags.
How ordering works
You choose the product, colour and quantity and send us your logo. You receive a free digital proof. Production only starts after your approval. Which files we need is explained in the article Supplying your logo; what printing costs, in the article What does printing with your logo cost?
