By Babta Products Ltd

01/17/2011
When designing a carry bag you need to look at the different handle options available and make sure it suits your bag, your design and your product.
Diecut Handles are most commonly used on plastic carry bags; it is the cheapest handle option but also is also very easy to carry. The variation on this handle is a patch handle and a turnover top handle (double layer of plastic) which is used when heavy items are going into the bag, or when the bag size is large and needs the extra strength. When using this handle you need to remember that it does cut into the overall length of your bag.Soft Loop or Flat Fold Handles are slightly more expensive than diecut handles but will lengthen the bag. So if you are a shoe store and your bag fits 80% of your shoeboxes but the other 20% are slightly longer/bigger, then this handle will work for you by giving you the bit extra in length. Also gives your bag a slightly more exclusive look.
Ridge Tube, Soft Tube or European Clip Handles are used on plastic carry bags generally for a gift bag. The European Clip handle will clip together, so great to use on a bag where you want to secure the contents for your customers. Not as popular in New Zealand as the other handle types.
Cotton Rope Handles are more commonly used on paper carry bags however they can be also be used on eco bags and plastic bags. The cotton rope is a softer feel than a flat fold handle, nice to carry around if you are doing a lot of shopping. On a plastic bag it can really lift the bag to a more exclusive look.
Paper Twist Handles are used on paper bags in very much the same way as a flat fold or soft loop handle is used on a plastic bag. By using this handle type on a paper bag with no lamination, the bag will be fully biodegradable in a shorter time than if it is laminated, a very good twist.
Ribbon or Woven Handles are used both on paper and non-woven eco bags. Using these handles, good artwork and materials you will create a very exclusive looking bag.


Shoulder Strap Handle is the term used for non-woven eco and cotton bags where the handle is long enough for your customer to carry over their shoulder. This handle type is the most popular for non-woven bags.


Carry Handles are smaller handles on the non-woven eco bags and are used more for conference bags where the customer isn't going to be over filling the bag and carrying it for a length of time. Also good on small bags that are being used as a gift, or used as an outer wrapper for a larger bag
Postman Sak Handles are used on non-woven eco and cotton bags and go from one side of the bag to the other, creating a long handle that you customer will wear diagonal over their shoulders. Very hip in surf stores, designer stores and promotions involving certain age groups.