If you’re considering custom canvas tote bags for your business, event, or organization, you’re making a smart choice. These bags are not just practical and stylish—they’re also an excellent way to promote a brand, spread a message, or create a sense of community. Whether you need them for retail, corporate gifts, trade shows, schools, or nonprofits, custom canvas tote bags offer endless possibilities for customization and brand visibility.
With various fabric options, sizes, and printing methods available, choosing the right tote bag can seem overwhelming. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know before placing an order, helping you make an informed decision that meets your needs and budget.
Table of Contents
Why Custom Canvas Tote Bags Are a Smart Choice
Versatile for Every Occasion
Custom canvas tote bags are used across multiple industries and events. Their flexibility makes them ideal for:
- Retail bags – Many boutiques, bookstores, and grocery stores use custom canvas totes as an eco-friendly alternative to plastic bags.
- Promotional giveaways – Trade shows, conferences, and events frequently distribute tote bags as branded promotional items.
- Schools and universities – Student organizations, alumni groups, and faculty use them for events, merchandise, and fundraisers.
- Corporate gifts – Many companies customize tote bags with their logos and distribute them as welcome gifts for employees or event swag for clients.
- Nonprofit fundraisers – Organizations sell or give away custom tote bags to raise awareness and funds for their cause.
Eco-Friendly and Sustainable
In recent years, there has been a growing shift toward sustainability, and custom canvas tote bags fit perfectly into this movement. Unlike disposable plastic bags, canvas totes are reusable, biodegradable, and often made from natural or recycled materials. Offering your customers or attendees a reusable alternative not only reduces waste but also aligns your brand with environmentally responsible practices.
Durable and Long-Lasting
Canvas tote bags are designed to withstand heavy use. Unlike paper bags that tear easily or plastic bags that degrade over time, high-quality canvas totes can be used daily for years. The durability of these bags makes them a cost-effective branding tool, as customers will continue to use them long after receiving them, keeping your logo and message visible.
A Branding Opportunity That Lasts
One of the best features of custom canvas tote bags is that they provide long-term brand exposure. Unlike disposable promotional items that might get thrown away, tote bags have practical, everyday use. When someone carries a tote bag with your logo, they are effectively advertising your brand wherever they go—whether it’s at the grocery store, gym, office, or while traveling.
Key Features to Consider When Choosing Custom Canvas Tote Bags
Fabric Weight & Material
The weight and type of fabric you choose impact durability, cost, and overall appearance.
- 6 oz. canvas – A lightweight option, perfect for promotional giveaways where affordability is a priority.
- 10 oz. canvas – A mid-weight option that balances durability and cost-effectiveness. Ideal for retail stores and general-purpose use.
- 12 oz. canvas – A heavy-duty option designed for long-term use. Best for high-end corporate gifts or retail settings.
You can also choose between natural cotton, polyester blends, or recycled materials, depending on your sustainability preferences.
Size & Shape Options
Canvas tote bags come in a variety of sizes to accommodate different needs.
- Small totes (10" x 12") – Best suited for quick giveaways or carrying a few personal items.
- Medium totes (15" x 16") – A standard size that works well for groceries, books, and everyday items.
- Large totes (18" x 20") – Ideal for shopping, beach trips, or carrying heavier loads.
Shape also matters. Flat-bottom totes provide better structure for standing upright, while gusseted totes expand to hold more items and distribute weight evenly.
Handle Length & Style
Handle length is another important factor to consider when selecting a tote bag.
- Short handles (12-16”) – Best for hand-carrying smaller bags.
- Long handles (20-26”) – Designed for comfortable over-the-shoulder wear.
- Reinforced stitching – Provides extra strength for carrying heavier loads.
A reinforced handle can extend the lifespan of the tote bag, ensuring it holds up well under frequent use.
Customization Options for Custom Canvas Tote Bags
Screen Printing (Best for Bold, Simple Designs)
Screen printing is one of the most popular customization methods, known for its affordability and durability.
- Best for logos, slogans, or large text-based designs.
- Cost-effective for bulk orders.
- Works well on both light and dark canvas bags.
Embroidery (Best for Premium, Long-Lasting Designs)
Embroidery offers a high-end, textured look that adds professionalism and durability.
- Best suited for corporate branding, professional settings, and luxury retail totes.
- Long-lasting, with thread-based designs that won’t fade over time.
- Works best on thicker canvas fabrics.
Digital Printing (Best for Full-Color Designs & Small Orders)
If your design includes multiple colors, gradients, or intricate details, digital printing may be the best option.
- Ideal for photo-quality prints or highly detailed artwork.
- No color limitations, allowing for vibrant, full-color images.
- Works well for small-batch or single-item orders.
Heat Transfer (Best for Specialty Finishes & Metallic Designs)
Heat transfer allows for unique effects, including glitter, metallic, and foil finishes.
- Great for fashion-forward designs or limited-edition promotional items.
- Ideal for short-term event branding where specialty finishes are desired.
- Works well on both light and dark tote bags.
Unsure which customization option is best for your design? No worries, we will make an informed decision for you after the design process is completed. You can still specifically choose a process like embroidery, or mention a preference, but rest assured our team knows best and is here to help! You will also get a chance to review your order before production starts.
How to Order Custom Canvas Tote Bags with Underground Printing
Step 1: Choose Your Tote Bag Style
Browse various tote bag styles, sizes, and materials to find the perfect fit. Then pick your color.
Step 2: Upload or Create Your Design
Use UGP’s online design tool or upload your high-resolution artwork to ensure the best print quality.
Step 3: Select Your Order Quantity and See Your Quote
Input your desired order quantity and zip code to calculate your quick quote. Take advantage of bulk order discounts to save on large purchases.
Step 4: Review, Approve & Place Your Order
UGP provides a proof for approval before production begins, ensuring you’re satisfied with your design. After that you can look forward to fast shipping!
Popular Custom Canvas Tote Bags
Here are links to some of our most popular tote bag styles available:
- Liberty Bags Cotton Canvas Tote – A lightweight and budget-friendly tote made from 6 oz. cotton canvas. Its 14.5” x 15.5” size and 22” handles make it great for giveaways, promotions, or everyday use. No minimum order required.
- Port and Company Over The Shoulder Grocery Tote – A sturdy, spacious tote made from 10 oz. cotton twill, designed for groceries, shopping, or daily essentials. Features a 7-inch gusset for extra storage and reinforced 22-inch handles for added durability.
- Bag Edge 12 oz. Canvas Tote with Contrasting Handles – A durable, stylish tote crafted from 12 oz. cotton canvas with contrasting handles and bottom. Includes a front pocket for added convenience, making it great for retail, branding, or everyday use.
Start Your Custom Tote Bag Order Today!
Whether you need affordable bulk totes for an event or premium canvas bags for a retail store, Underground Printing makes ordering easy. Start designing your custom tote bag today and take advantage of high-quality printing, competitive pricing, and fast turnaround times.
Ready to get started? Browse our collection and place your order now!