How Are Tote Bags Measured: A Comprehensive Guide

Tote bags are versatile and convenient carriers, perfect for everyday use. Like carrying groceries, books, or your laptop, an excellent tote bag manufacturer can make all the difference. But how do you measure a tote bag size?

This detailed guide will show you how to measure tote bags. We’ll go over everything from the fundamentals of height, width, and depth to more advanced issues like gusset and strap length.

Why Is Measuring A Tote Bag Important?

Measuring a tote bag is essential for several reasons:

• Getting the Right Fit: The bag should fit easily over your shoulder or arm without being overly big or small.
• Maximizing Capacity: Tote bag dimensions help you decide if it can hold your usual goods.
• Make an informed decision: When shopping online, measuring a tote bag helps you envision its dimensions and make an informed purchase decision.

Considering these considerations, let’s begin with the detailed tote bag measurement directions.

What You’ll Need

Before you start, gather the following items:

1. A measuring tape or ruler
2. The tote bag you want to measure

How To Measure A Tote Bag’s Width / Height？

Measure a tote bag’s breadth and height to determine its carrying capacity and usefulness. Check out this step-by-step guide with pictures for measuring a tote bag’s width and height.

Steps:

1. Place the tote bag flat: Unfold it and place it flat on a table or countertop. The base will be stable for accurate measurements.

2. Measure the width:Place the measuring tape or ruler across the widest point of the bag, usually at the opening. Ensure the tape is straight and perpendicular to the base of the bag. Write down the measurement in either inches or centimeters.

3. Measure the height:Vertically measure the bag from bottom to top, excluding the handles. Use straight, perpendicular tape to the bag foundation. Write down the measurement in either inches or centimeters.

Additional Tips:

• For more precise measurements, use a metal measuring tape rather than a fabric tape, which may stretch.
• If the tote bag has a gusset (the expandable bottom panel), measure the depth separately. Set the measuring tape in the bottom corner.

Tote Bag Depth Measurement Instructions

It’s essential to remember that the depth measurement varies depending on the design of each tote bag.

Consider what your bag needs to carry before choosing a size.  Using a tape measure, align one end with the bag’s bottom corner to measure depth. From here, measure the tape across the bag to the rear.

How To Determine The Measurement of A Tote Bag with Gusset?

Measuring a tote bag with a gusset involves a few more steps than measuring a regular tote bag due to the extra fabric. A gusset is an additional fabric sewn onto a bag’s bottom or sides to increase strength and capacity.

Tote bags typically have U, T, or box gussets. Here are the step-by-step instructions:

• Height measurement: Measure the bag from bottom to top. Get the bag fully expanded and without sagging.
• Measure Width: Measure bag length from one side to another.
• Gusset depth measurement: The gusset is usually on the bottom of the bag but sometimes on the sides. This extra cloth is measured.
• Measure the Handle: Measure from bag top to handle top. The bag’s drop length is its strap-held length.

Measure these dimensions to calculate the overall size of your gusset tote bag. The gusset style may affect the measurement procedure.

Note: These measures are usually in inches but can be translated to metric.

How To Measure A Tote Bag For Printing?

Measuring a tote bag for printing involves considering the total area where the print will go. Here’s how to measure a tote bag for printing:

Steps:

1.Width and Height: Use a tape measure or ruler to measure the bag’s width from left to right or height from top to bottom. While measuring the bag, place the tape in the middle to avoid bent or folded areas.

2.Think About the Gusset: Measure the gusset on your tote bag if it has one so that the total width accounts for it. To measure a T-gusset tote bag, for instance, lay the tote flat and measure from seam to seam. In the end, the gusset is factored into the entire width measurement.

3.Determine Printable Area:The printable area may also be determined by the bag dimensions. An example of a bag with a printing area measuring 15 inches high by 13 inches wide would measure 18 inches from seam to seam, have a 6-inch gusset, and be 15 inches tall.

4.Check Your Design Size: Based on the area measurements and your design, you must ensure that your design is in the proper size to fit the printable area.

5.Consider Printing Limitations: Every printer has its limitations. Normal screen printing sizes, for instance, can reach up to 15 x 16 inches or a jumbo print of 16 x 19 inches. Be sure to correspond with your printing company about these limitations.

In short, the key is to know the complete dimensions of your tote bag and your design size and then adjust it according to the limitations of the printing process.

How To Determine The Length Of A Tote Bag Strap Or Handle?

There are two main measurements to consider when measuring a tote bag handle or strap: the length and the drop.

How To Measure The Handle Length

Tote bag handle or strap drop is the space between the handle and the bag top. Set the bag flat on a table and measure from one attachment to another to measure length.

How To Determine The Drop Length

The drop of a tote bag handle or strap is the distance from the top of the handle to the top of the bag. To measure the drop, hold the bag by the handle and measure from the top of the handle to the top of the bag.

Which Measurement Is More Important?

The length of the handle is more important if you plan to carry the bag over your shoulder. The handle’s drop is more important if you carry the bag by hand.

Here is a table of general guidelines for tote bag handle lengths and drops:

Tips

• When measuring the length of a handle, be sure to measure along the curve of the handle, not along the straight line.
• When measuring the handle’s drop, measure from the top of the handle to the top of the bag, not the bottom.

If you’re uncertain which length or drop to select, it is always better to use a longer handle or strap. You can always shorten it later, but you cannot lengthen it.

What Are The Most Popular Tote Bag Strap/Handle Lengths?

The most popular  length of the tote bag strap or handle depends on the size and style of the bag.

• Shoulder straps: Shoulder straps are typically 22-26 inches long and have a drop of 9-12 inches. This length allows the bag to be carried comfortably over the shoulder.
• Hand straps: Hand straps are typically 12-16 inches long and have a drop of 3-6 inches. This length allows the bag to be carried comfortably by hand
• Detachable straps:Some tote bags have detachable straps that can be used as shoulder or hand straps. This gives the bag more versatility and allows it to be carried in various ways.
• Adjustable straps:To accommodate the user’s demands, some tote bags feature adjustable straps that can be extended or shortened. This is a good option for people who want a bag that can be carried in various ways or for people who want to share the bag with others.

Ultimately, the best handle or strap length for a tote bag is the most comfortable and practical for the user.

What Are The Common Tote Bag Sizes?

Tote bags come in various sizes to suit every need and occasion. Here are some standard tote bag sizes:

Small Tote Bag

Generally, small tote bags are around 10-12 inches (25- 30 cm) in height and width, with a depth/width of 2-4 inches (5 to 10 cm.)

Medium Tote Bag

The dimensions of medium tote bags may vary more widely than small ones because the design, material, and brand can influence the size. Generally, medium-sized totes may have dimensions that align widths and heights between 13 to 15 inches (33 to 38 cm), with a depth of around 5 to 6 inches (12.7 to 15 cm).

Large Tote Bag

Large tote bags may measure upwards of 16 inches (40 cm) or more in height and width. These bags are designed to carry larger items and may have a corresponding larger depth.

Extra Large Tote Bags

There are also extra-large tote bags available, but their dimensions vary significantly. These kinds are usually used for traveling or carrying numerous bulky items.

Remember that these are typical sizes, and the exact dimensions can vary based on the manufacturer’s design and specifications.

How To Choose The Ideal Size For You?

Choosing the ideal size of a tote bag depends on your needs and preferences. Here are some factors to consider:

Purpose

What will you use the tote bag for? If you need a bag to carry everyday essentials like your mobile phone, wallet, and keys, a small or medium tote bag will be sufficient. If you need a bag to carry a laptop or other bulky items, you will need a larger tote bag.

Style

What is your style? Do you prefer a tote bag that is classic and timeless or trendy and fashion-forward? There are tote bags available in a wide variety of styles, so you are sure to find one that you love.

Body Frame

Consider your body frame when choosing the size of a tote bag. A small or medium tote bag will be a good choice for petite women, while a larger one will be a better choice for taller women.

Comfort

Make sure the tote bag you choose is comfortable to carry. The straps should be wide enough and long enough to fit over your shoulder comfortably.

Here is a table of general guidelines for tote bag sizes:

Final Thoughts

Understanding the different measurements of tote bags is crucial for selecting the ideal one that suits your needs and preferences. Consider handle length, drop, and bag size when choosing comfort, style, or adaptability. With many options, you’ll find the perfect tote bag for your lifestyle and taste.

Bjarne as a professional handbag manufacturer, for every requirement we offer a choice of sizes, handle lengths and materials. If you are looking for the right personalized tote bag, please contact us