Figure 1: The Different Types of Paper Bag Handles
Paper bags have been popular for generations as packaging materials across various industries. Apart from their environmental significance, paper bags are essential in defining a brand’s image and the impression it creates among users. This handle is one component that makes paper bags functional and beautiful to the eye.
Do You Know?
The latest figures show that the paper bag industry forecasts the market to grow at a CAGR of 4%. Increased by 5 percent from 2021 to 2026 due to the rising need to adopt environmentally friendly packaging products.
What will you learn in this blog:
This blog will explore the diverse paper bag handle types, unique characteristics, and optimal applications.
Understanding the Different Types Of Paper Bag Handles
The handles of paper bags also vary, each customized to offer specific uses that augment the usefulness of the bag in question. These handles range from solid and twisted handles to die-cut handle types that are distinctively classy and comfortable to hold. Knowing the various types can assist in selecting the right handle for the paper bags depending on the desire for durability, trend, or convenience.
Figure 2: Types of Paper Bag Handles
Twisted Handle
Twisted paper handles are made with twisted strands of paper fibers, which makes them solid enough to support fully loaded papers. These handles are popular, particularly in retail and grocery stores, since they are solid and durable.
Figure 3: Twisted Handles
They allow a firm hold and can be laminated again with other sheets of paper if necessary. Twisted paper handles come in many colors and can be easily adapted to fit the business’ logo for a practical and visually pleasing carry bag.
Corresponding machine:
Flat Handle
Flat paper handles are made of comprehensive, flat paper with sufficient thickness and provide adequate bearing to hold it firmly. These handles are commonly employed in SOS (Self-Opening Square bags) and frequently utilized in food service and retail applications.
Figure 4: Flat Paper Bag Handles
Flat paper handles have been associated with high toughness and are, therefore, an ideal solution for many businesses that consider the economic aspect of packaging. Their wide surface area also allows for easy branding and customization of the bags, making them more attractive.
Corresponding machine:
SOS bags Handles
SOS bag handles are designed to endure the standards of strength and comfort in transporting different emergency necessities. These handles are made from strong materials; for those likely to run an emergency or organize their storage equipment in a manner that enables quick access, this would help them since they will have a strong grip on these handles. Being rigid, they provide an even weight distribution that is convenient in avoiding stress and makes the furniture suitable for use in emergencies.
Corresponding machine:
D-Cut Handle
The die-cut handles are made simply by cutting the handle shapes on the bag without using more materials. This design is widely applied to mailing and pinch bottom bags, giving the bags a simple and elegant look.
Figure 6: D-Cut Handles
They are inexpensive and occupy less space since they are part of the bag’s structure. Although they may not provide the comfort of the other handles, they are helpful for applications where space and a neat appearance are preferred.
Corresponding machine:
Cotton Cord Handles
The cotton cord handles are made from soft, twisted cotton cords that afford a good grip and are comfortable. Because of their sturdiness and the luxurious nature of the material, these handles are preferably used in higher retail and gift bags.
Figure 7: Cotton Cord Handles
The cotton cord handles can carry more weight and give an exuberant appeal to the packaging, making them an ideal option for most companies that want to enhance the look and feel of the packaging for their customers. They also come in various colors, easily matched with brand aesthetics.
Ribbon Handles
Ribbon handles are made from satin, grosgrain, or cotton ribbons, giving paper bags a classy and professional look. They are commonly used in the luxury and gift packaging industries, where appearances are paramount.
Ribbon handles are available in diverse colors and touch, thus enabling businesses to set up a classy outlook that consumers will appreciate. Although these handles are less durable than others, their appearance and feel make them ideal for fine or luxury goods packaging applications.
Choosing the Right Handle for Your Needs
Here’s how you can select the right handle for your paper bags.
Bag Size and Weight Capacity
It is essential to consider the paper bag’s size and weight-carrying capacity while choosing an appropriate handle. Heavier bags, or those intended for heavy items, need more robust handles, such as twisted paper tubes or cotton cords, since they can withstand the weight they will carry.
On the contrary, small bags or those used to carry lighter items may incorporate less durable handle forms such as ribbons or flat paper handles. Matching the bag’s capacity to the handle strength helps avoid breakage and makes the product more useful.
Target Audience and Brand Image
The target audience and brand image are central in determining which handles to adopt. Some possible handles for such bags include ribbon or cotton cord handles, which remain appropriate for luxury brands or high-end retail stores and reflect your brand reputation.
Product Type and Packaging Design
Another factor determining the choice of handle type is the nature of the product to be packed. For instance, handles of food service bags like SOS bags could contain features like flat paper handles that are easy to hold and do not absorb moisture. Die-cut handle styles give mailing and pinch-bottom bags with handles a clean, sleek look for shipping.
Environmental Impact
Today’s stringent measures regarding environmentally friendly products also require consideration of packaging material. Ordering handles from recycled paper or natural cotton helps make your product environmentally friendly.
Wrap Up
Selecting the correct paper bag handle is essential in determining your product’s efficiency, appearance, and general impression. Therefore, knowing the variety of handles available in the market and their effectiveness will help you identify the correct handle to enhance your brand and satisfy your customers’ needs.
