When it comes to branded packaging, few items work harder than the humble paper bag. From retail to events, gifting to luxury launches, the right bag does more than carry a product — it carries your brand. But creating the perfect paper bag isn’t as simple as picking a size and printing a logo. To make sure your packaging is both practical and premium, it all starts with a clear brief.
At Clyde Presentation Packaging, we know that briefing can feel overwhelming — materials, sizes, handles, finishes, certifications… the list goes on. That’s why we’ve created this guide: to simplify the process and help you brief with confidence. Whether your priority is sustainability, luxury appeal, or both, we’ll work with you to create paper bags that look exceptional, perform reliably, and reflect your brand values.
Sustainable Handle Options
When it comes to luxury paper carrier bags, ribbon and rope handles have long been the favourites. Their wide choice of colours, textures, and finishes make them a go-to option for brands that want their packaging to feel premium.
But there’s a problem: synthetic ribbon and rope handles make paper bags harder to recycle. They need to be removed before the bag can be processed – something most consumers simply don’t do. The result? What should be a recyclable product often ends up as waste.
At Clyde Presentation Packaging, sustainability isn’t a buzzword. It’s a value we live by. We’ve been ISO 9001 (Quality Management) and ISO 14001 (Environmental Management) certified for over a decade, and we hold FSC® and PEFC certifications too. Every audit we pass reflects our commitment to offering premium packaging that’s kinder to the planet.
That’s why we’re proud to offer a full range of paper handles that make your bespoke luxury carrier bags 100% recyclable, without compromising on look or feel.
1. Paper Ribbon / Rope Handles
Paper ribbon and rope handles are crafted by weaving or twisting thin strands of paper into a braid or cord format. They mimic the appearance and strength of traditional ribbon or rope, but with the advantage of being fully recyclable. Available in a variety of colours and thicknesses, they allow you to retain a luxury feel while meeting sustainability goals.
2. DIE CUT HANDLES
For a seamless, integrated solution, turnover top handles are punched directly into the paper of the bag. To ensure durability, these handles are internally reinforced – offering strength and rigidity while maintaining a clean, minimal look.
3. Twisted Paper Handles
Made from twisted paper twine, these handles are strong, reliable, and customisable in different thicknesses and colours. They’re a practical yet premium alternative, ideal for retail and luxury gifting bags.
Why Paper Handles Matter
It’s easy to assume that a paper bag is automatically recyclable. The truth is, the finishes make all the difference. For example, if the handle is not paper-based, the whole bag can’t be recycled – the handle must be removed manually first.
Switching to paper handles simplifies recycling for your customers, boosts your packaging’s eco credentials, and demonstrated that your brand takes sustainability seriously.
HOW TO BRIEF
- What’s the bag for? (retail, events, gifting)
- What will it carry (max weight)?
- Any key goals (luxury feel, eco focus, speed?)
- Bag size required (W x H x D in mm) or product dimensions we can work to
- Structure: turnover top, reinforced base, or open top
- Paper Ribbon or Rope – premium look available in various colours
- Turnover top – die-cut, reinforced, sleek
- Twister Paper – strong cord, simple and practical
- Length of handle – hand-carry or shoulder length?
- Paper type – kraft, coated, textured
- Weight – 170-250gsm typical
- Plastic-free finishes (varnish, no lamination)
- FSC/PEFC options available – ask our team for more details
- Print colours (Pantone or CMYK references)
- Special finishes (foil, emboss, deboss)
- Do you need inside print?
- Do you have artwork, or need this created? Artwork supplied as press-ready PDF, or we can help
- Order quantity required (initial and annual)
- Delivery address and deadline (event date, launch, etc)
- Roll-out plan (one-off or phased deliveries)
- Do you want FSC or PEFC logos?
- Any recycling marks or green claims to include?
FSC® Certified Peace of Mind
As an FSC® certified supplier, we can offer FSC-certified materials for your luxury bags, giving you the option to carry the FSC logo on your packaging. This not only strengthens your sustainability story but also provides your customers with visible reassurance that you’ve made responsible choices.
And because all of our labels and certifications are independently audited and approved, you have total peace of mind that your packaging lives up to the highest standards – both in quality and in sustainability.
Packaging That Reflects Your Brand Values
Every detail of your packaging tells a story about your brand. By choosing recyclable paper handles, you’re sending a clear message: quality and sustainability matter to you. With Clyde Presentation Packaging, you don’t need to compromise one for the other.
If you’re looking to elevate your brand with custom, fully recyclable luxury carrier bags, get in touch with our team. Together, we’ll create packaging that not only looks exceptional but also lives up to your environmental values.
Next Steps
- Send us your brief (use the checklist above or speak with one of our experts who will talk you through what information we need).
- We’ll advise on the best spec, provide a quote, and issue a line drawing.
- Proofs and samples supplied before full production.
- Delivery on time, with optional phased call-offs.