Cotton and canvas bag specifications
Our canvas is cotton woven heavier and closer than light cotton. This page shows how ounces convert to GSM, which weight suits which bag, and the cotton types and finishes we offer. Other GSMs can be made to your requirement, subject to fabric availability.
Ounces and GSM.
Weights are a guide. Other weights are made to your requirement, subject to fabric availability; heavier fabric costs more.
| Weight (oz per sq yd) | Approx. GSM | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| 4 oz | 136 GSM | Light promotional totes |
| 5 oz | 170 GSM | Everyday printed totes |
| 6 oz | 203 GSM | Strong everyday totes |
| 8 oz | 271 GSM | Light canvas shoppers |
| 10 oz | 339 GSM | Canvas grocery bags |
| 12 oz | 407 GSM | Heavy canvas bags |
| 16 oz | 542 GSM | Extra-heavy canvas |
Cotton types and finishes.
| Option | What it is | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cotton | Plain-woven cotton | Light to mid weight; the sharpest print surface |
| Canvas | Heavier woven cotton | Holds its shape; for shoppers and heavy use |
| Organic cotton | Organic fibre | Produced in a GOTS certified facility; scope confirmed per order |
| Recycled cotton | Recycled fibre | Produced in a GRS certified facility; scope confirmed per order |
| Yarn-dyed cotton | Dyed before weaving | Stripes and checks woven in |
| Finishes | Natural, bleached, dyed, stone-washed | Pantone colours dyed to order |
How cotton takes print.
- Screen print
Best for bold logos in one to four colours; very durable.
- Digital print
Full-colour artwork and photos.
- Embroidery
Premium logos on canvas totes.
- Woven labels
Small brand labels on plain bags.
Sizes, handles and printing.
Standard sizes, handle types and print methods for all fabrics are on the bag specifications page. Ready to order? See the cotton & canvas bags page.
Cotton & Canvas specification questions.
Is canvas heavier than cotton?
Yes. Our canvas is cotton woven heavier. There is no fixed cut-off, but cotton from about 8 oz (around 270 GSM) is commonly sold as canvas.
Which weight is best for a promotional tote?
Around 4 to 5 oz (about 135 to 170 GSM) keeps cost low with good print.
Which weight is best for a grocery bag?
Around 8 to 12 oz canvas (about 270 to 410 GSM) for repeated heavy use.
Can you make a GSM not listed?
Yes. Other GSMs can be made to your requirement, subject to fabric availability.
Tell us what you need.
Product, quantity and destination is enough to start. We review your requirement and reply with a quotation.