The Complete Fabric Guide
Everything you need to know about bag materials, GSM ratings, print methods, and compliance requirements. Built for wholesale buyers and brand managers.
Non-Woven PP Styles & Specs
W-Cut (T-Shirt)
Ultrasonic Weld — Fused seams, integrated handle
40–70 GSM
15–20 lbs
Groceries, takeout, pharmacies
$0.12+
D-Cut (Flat)
Ultrasonic Weld — Reinforced patch handle
60–80 GSM
10–15 lbs
Trade shows, documents, light retail
$0.20+
3D Box Bag
Ultrasonic 3D — Machine-formed gussets
80–100 GSM
25–30 lbs
Retail shopper, event swag
$0.45+
Heavy Stitched Tote
Manual Stitch — Piping + cross-stitch handles
100–120 GSM
40 lbs+
Heavy grocery, reusable programs
$0.85+
GSM Capacity by Weight
1–3 lbs
30–50 GSM
Single-use promo bags, dust covers. Not for groceries.
5–10 lbs
60–80 GSM
Sweet SpotIndustry standard. Trade shows, boutique retail. 80 GSM is the sweet spot.
15–25 lbs
90–120 GSM
Heavy groceries, wine bottles, hardware. Meets bag law requirements.
Handle Styles
W-Cut
PopularHandles cut from single sheet. No stitching.
Load: 3–5 lbs
Best for: Boutiques, pharmacies, light retail
Price: $ Lowest
D-Cut
Die-cut handles punched through fabric.
Load: 5–8 lbs
Best for: Trade shows, gift bags, samples
Price: $$ Budget
Loop Handle
StitchedSeparate handle strips sewn or bonded.
Load: 15–25 lbs
Best for: Supermarkets, hardware, compliance
Price: $$$ Premium
Box Bag / Gusset
Wide bottom gusset with loop handles.
Load: 20–30 lbs
Best for: Wine shops, catering, bottles
Price: $$$$ Industrial
Which Material Should You Choose?
High Volume / Low Cost
500+ pieces, conferences, charity runs
Standard Non-Woven (80 GSM)
Best balance of price and durability.
Resale / Merchandise
$15-$25 retail totes, artist merch
Standard Canvas (10 oz)
Customers expect the 'feel' of cotton. Takes screen print beautifully.
Full Color Art
Photos, gradients, complex artwork
Laminated Non-Woven (110 GSM)
We print on film first, then laminate. 100% photo accuracy, waterproof.
Sources & References
ASTM International — Industry standards for textile testing and specifications
ISO Standards — International standards for textile quality and testing
Textile Exchange — Global nonprofit advancing sustainable textile practices
Part of Wovenary Intelligence — Retail packaging compliance, tariffs, and materials.