Width, height, gussets and fabric weight. Here’s how to read the measurements and choose the right bag for your next order.
Centimetres, explained
When comparing tote bags, it helps to know exactly what the measurements describe. Our sizes are listed in centimetres, while fabric weight is given in grams per square metre (g/m²).
A flat bag usually has two dimensions: width and height. A gusseted bag includes extra measurements for the folds that give it depth. Once you understand the notation, it is much easier to compare styles and choose a bag that fits your contents.
What does 38 × 42 + 10 + 10 mean?
The first two numbers in these listings describe the bag’s width and height. Additional numbers describe the gussets. The example below shows how the listed dimensions are organised; confirm the measurement method for your selected model.
Width 38 cm × height 42 cm + side gusset 10 cm + bottom gusset 10 cm.
A flat tote without gussets is simply listed as 38 × 42 cm.
Measurement formats can differ between suppliers. Confirm the dimension order, whether handles are included, and how each gusset is measured before ordering.
Find your size
Dimensions in cm · Fabric weight in g/m²
| Bag style | Size (cm) | Fabric weight | From €/bag at 1,000 pcs, 1-colour print |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cotton tote, flat | 38 × 42 | 220 g/m² | €1.75 |
| Cotton tote, mini | 22 × 26 | 140 g/m² | €1.00 |
| Cotton tote, standard gusseted | 38 × 42 + 10 + 10 | 220 g/m² | €2.35 |
| Cotton tote, wide gusseted | 42 × 38 + 10 + 10 | 220 g/m² | €2.35 |
| Cotton tote, XL gusseted | 60 × 40 + 16 | 220 g/m² | €3.40 |
| Heavy cotton, gusseted (natural) | 38 × 42 + 10 + 10 | 340 g/m² | €2.80 |
| Heavy cotton, double handles | 42 × 38 + 10 + 10 | 340 g/m² | €3.50 |
| Drawstring backpack | 38 × 46 | 140 g/m² | €2.15 |
| Drawstring pouch, small | 24 × 30 | 140 g/m² | €1.20 |
| Drawstring pouch, medium | 30 × 45 | 140 g/m² | €1.45 |
| Recycled tote, flat | 38 × 42 | 180 g/m² | €1.65 |
| Recycled tote, gusseted | 38 × 42 + 10 + 10 | 140 g/m² | €2.25 |
Published starting prices checked on 14 September 2026 for 1,000 bags with one-colour printing. This is a price-comparison quantity, not a minimum order. Check the selected product page for available order quantities and the applicable delivery and VAT terms.
More room for larger contents
The XL format is listed as 60 × 40 + 16 cm. Confirm how its gusset is measured and check the available room against your intended contents.
What fabric weight tells you
Fabric weight describes how much one square metre of material weighs. It helps you compare the feel and substance of different bags; it is not the weight of the finished bag or a load-capacity rating.
140 g/m²: light and easy to fold
A practical starting point for event bags, conferences and lightweight contents.
220 g/m²: a more substantial feel
A useful middle ground for retail packaging and everyday promotional bags.
320–340 g/m²: heavier cotton
A thicker feel for a more substantial gift bag or a premium presentation.
Durability also depends on the weave, stitching, handle attachment and how the bag is used. A heavier fabric alone does not guarantee a longer lifespan.
Start with what goes inside
- Conferences and events: choose a flat tote for documents and giveaways. A mini bag suits smaller gifts; check the contents fit.
- Retail: side and bottom gussets make room for bulkier purchases. A soft fabric bag may still need contents to stand upright.
- Client gifts: heavier cotton and a choice of handle lengths can make the bag feel more considered and useful.
Bag size and print area are different measurements. Send your artwork to check its size and placement before production.
When a drawstring bag makes more sense
A backpack keeps hands free, while a small drawstring pouch can hold individual gifts or accessories.
The range includes a 38 × 46 cm backpack and pouches in 24 × 30 cm and 30 × 45 cm. Choose the format around the contents, rather than treating every bag as a standard tote.
A recycled option for smaller orders
For a smaller event or a limited run, the dark grey 180 g/m² flat recycled tote has a 50-piece order option on its product page. Flat and gusseted recycled styles offer different shapes and capacities; check the quantities available for the model you choose.
The dark grey 180 g/m² recycled tote product page lists two weeks of production plus approximately five working days for delivery. Confirm the schedule for your artwork, delivery address and required date in your quotation.
View the dark grey recycled tote or compare the recycled range.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to convert the sizes?
No conversion is needed if you work in centimetres. If your contents are measured in inches, multiply those measurements by 2.54 to compare them with the listed bag dimensions. Allow room for the thickness of the contents too.
Do the dimensions include the handles?
Confirm this for the chosen model before ordering. Ask for the bag-body dimensions and handle length separately so that you can assess both capacity and carrying comfort.
What if my design does not fit the standard print area?
Send your artwork with your quotation request. We will confirm the available print area and placement before production starts.
Can I check a sample before placing a larger order?
Ask about a sample of your chosen model before committing to a larger quantity. It is a useful way to assess fabric, colour, construction and size. Check whether the sample will also show your intended print.
Find a bag that fits your contents
Tell us what it needs to carry, your quantity and your deadline. Include your artwork if you have it ready.