Start with the handles, because that is where a tote takes its load: pull them, look at how they are stitched to the bag, and check they are level. Then work down through the seams, the base, the fabric, the print and the label, and approve only when each matches what you asked for.
A sample is the last point where changes are simple. Once bulk production starts, the bag is made as the sample was approved. This tote bag sample quality check walks through what to look at, in the order that makes sense when the bag is in your hands.
1. Handles and handle attachment
The handles carry everything the bag holds, so they come first.
- Attachment stitching. Look where each handle joins the bag. The stitching should be firm, even and reinforced at the join, often with a box or cross pattern. Loose ends or skipped stitches here are a concern.
- Length. Hang the bag from your shoulder, then carry it by hand. Does the length suit the way your buyers will use it?
- Level. Both handles should be the same length and set at the same distance from the side seams.
- Width and feel. Handles that are too narrow can dig in when the bag is full.
Load the bag with roughly what it is meant to carry, such as books, groceries or a laptop in a sleeve, and walk around with it. A bag that feels right empty can feel different when full.
2. Seams, base and gusset
Turn the bag inside out.
- Side and base seams should be straight, with even stitch length and no gaps.
- Raw edges should be finished so they do not fray with use.
- The gusset, if the bag has one, should be square and the same depth on both sides, so the bag stands evenly.
- The top hem should be folded and stitched evenly all the way round.
3. Fabric and colour
Compare the fabric with what you chose.
- Weight and feel. Heavier cotton canvas stands up on its own; lighter canvas folds small. Jute-cotton is stiffer, with a textured, natural look. Does the sample match the use you planned?
- Colour. Check natural or dyed colours in daylight, next to your brand reference if you have one.
- Surface. Look for marks, uneven weave or stains.
4. Print, embroidery or transfer
The branding is what your buyer sees first.
| Method | What to check |
|---|---|
| Screen print | Sharp edges, even ink cover, correct colours, no smudges, correct position and size |
| Embroidery | Even, tight stitching, clean outline, no puckering of the fabric around it |
| Heat transfer | Flat, fully bonded edges, colours as approved, no lifting at the corners |
Measure the position from a fixed point, such as the top hem, and compare it with your artwork. If the bag is printed on both sides, check both sides line up. On jute-cotton, expect a slightly rustic print because of the textured weave; judge whether the artwork still reads clearly.
5. Zip, pocket and lining
For a zip tote:
- Run the zip end to end several times. It should move smoothly without catching the fabric.
- Check the zip is stitched straight and both ends are finished neatly.
- Look at any inner pocket: is it the size you asked for, and is it stitched securely at the corners?
- If the bag is lined, check the lining sits flat and is joined cleanly at the top.
For a drawstring bag, pull the cords open and closed several times. The channel should let the cord run freely, and the cord ends should be finished so they do not unravel.
6. Labels, packing and your feedback
Last, check the finishing your buyer meets at the point of sale.
- Sewn label. Correct artwork, correct position, stitched straight and flat.
- Care or other wording. Matches what you sent us for your destination country.
- Hang tag. Correct artwork and securely attached.
- Folding and bagging. Folded to the size you asked for, in the bag you specified, with any sticker in the right place.
If you are still deciding on branding finishes, our guide to tote bag labels, tags and packaging covers each option.
Giving feedback on the sample
Clear feedback keeps the next step quick.
- Write each point separately, with a photo and a measurement where relevant.
- Say what you want instead, not only what is wrong.
- Mark anything that needs a second sample, and anything you are happy to approve with a written change.
Once you approve the sample, an advance starts production, and our quality check in bulk measures the bags against that approved sample before dispatch.
To order a sample, choose a style from our white label tote bags range and send us the fabric, size, colour, quantity and artwork. We will confirm the details in the quotation.