Paper Bags for Gifts: How to Choose the Right Size, Handle and Finish

Author : Arif islam | Published On : 21 Oct 2026

What makes a good paper gift bag?

Five features matter most:

• Size: the gift should sit comfortably inside with a little room for tissue paper, and the top should fold or tuck neatly.

• Paper weight: paper is measured in grams per square metre (gsm). A higher gsm generally means a stiffer, sturdier bag, though construction matters too.

• Handle type: twisted paper handles, flat paper handles and ribbon handles each suit different gifts and budgets.

• Base: a flat, block base lets the bag stand on a table and holds its shape when filled.

• Colour and finish: natural kraft looks rustic and works with almost any wrapping. Solid colours help you match a theme.

How do you choose the right size?

Measure the tallest, widest and deepest point of the gift, then add about 2 to 3cm to each measurement. This is a practical rule of thumb rather than a fixed standard. It leaves space for tissue paper and stops corners pushing against the sides.

Bag dimensions are normally quoted as width, height and depth (the depth is the width of the side gusset). As an example, a bag measuring 18 x 22 x 8cm suits compact items such as a candle, a small box of chocolates, a set of soaps or a paperback. Bulky items like a boxed bottle or a folded jumper need a medium or large bag.

Which handle style works best?

Twisted paper handles are popular because they are comfortable in the hand and can match the colour of the bag. If you expect guests to carry bags around an event, choose a twisted or ribbon handle over a flat one.

Small paper bags with handles for party favours

Party favours are where small bags earn their place. A small bag keeps favours together, looks neat on a table and gives children or guests something easy to carry home.

If you are buying in colours for a theme, small paper gift bags with twisted handles from The Paper Bag Store are one option to compare. According to the retailer's category page, the range is made from 90 to 100gsm kraft paper, comes in 21 colours, and each bag has a matching twisted handle and a flat block base. The listed size is 18 x 22 x 8cm, and prices start from £4.19 including VAT. Check the product page for pack sizes and current prices before you order.

Whichever supplier you use, order one sample bag first if the gift is heavy or the event is important. Fill it with the real item and carry it across the room.

Simple presentation ideas

• Tissue paper: two sheets in a matching or contrasting colour lifts a plain bag.

• Tags: a handwritten tag on the handle adds a personal touch without extra cost.

• Colour coding: use one colour per guest group, table or age range at a party.

• Kraft and ribbon: a brown bag with a coloured ribbon suits weddings, teacher gifts and small business parcels.

FAQs

What size paper bag do I need for a gift? Measure the gift at its widest, tallest and deepest points and add 2 to 3cm to each. For small items such as candles, jewellery boxes or sweets, a bag around 18 x 22 x 8cm is a common starting point.

What does gsm mean on a paper bag? Gsm stands for grams per square metre and describes how heavy the paper is. Higher numbers usually feel thicker and stiffer, but handle strength and base design also affect how much a bag can carry.

Are twisted handles better than flat handles? Neither is better in every case. Twisted handles are rounder and more comfortable to hold, so they suit gifts people will carry for a while. Flat handles work well for light items and quick handovers.

How many party bags should I order? Count your guests, then add a few spares for last-minute additions or damaged bags. If you are filling bags yourself, buy one extra sample to test the fit.

Sources

• Product facts (90 to 100gsm kraft paper, 21 colours, twisted handle, flat block base, 18 x 22 x 8cm, from £4.19 inc. VAT): The Paper Bag Store, Small Paper Gift Bags category page, reviewed 21 October 2026.

• The gsm definition, handle comparisons and the sizing rule of thumb are general explanations and practical advice, not sourced statistics. I did not fetch an outside source for them.

• Guidance to follow when submitting: Google's helpful content guidance and spam policies. I did not re-open these in this session.