Custom tote bags: choose the bag around its purpose
A tote bag is both a giveaway and the packaging that carries it. Before deciding on a colour or print, list what needs to fit inside and how you expect the recipient to use it afterwards.
Begin with the contents
Lay out the items the bag needs to hold: a brochure, notebook, bottle, product sample or a combination. Give your supplier the actual dimensions and approximate combined weight instead of asking for a standard event bag.
A flat bag and a bag with a gusset offer different usable space. Ask for the finished width, height and gusset dimensions, and check the opening as well as the capacity. A bag should not need to be stretched around its contents.
Consider the carrying experience
Decide whether people will carry the bag by hand or over a shoulder. Ask for the handle length and drop, then review these alongside the filled bag rather than as isolated measurements.
For an exhibition, imagine the visitor walking between stands with other materials. A comfortable carrying arrangement and accessible opening deserve as much attention as the artwork.
Request material details, not just a material name
Ask the supplier to specify fabric composition, fabric weight, stitching and handle attachment. Terms such as cotton or canvas alone do not define the complete construction or finish.
If you intend to make a recycled-material or environmental claim, request supporting information for the specific bag. Avoid treating every reusable bag as automatically equivalent in material or environmental performance.
Give the artwork room to work
Choose whether the design will appear on one side or both. Share the number of colours, the intended print dimensions and any fine detail. Ask the supplier to confirm a suitable print method for the fabric and artwork.
Consider a useful graphic or a restrained logo placement instead of enlarging the logo to fill the entire panel. Keep important elements clear of seams and ask to review the artwork on the actual bag proportions.
Check a filled sample where practical
Place the planned contents in a sample and check the opening, handle comfort, stitching and presentation. Review the print against your approved artwork, including its position and scale.
Before confirming the order, agree the quantity, finished specifications, packing requirements, approval process and delivery date. These details make it easier to compare quotations on the same basis.