What Type of Fabric is Used for Bags?

There are various types of fabrics used in bag manufacturing. With advancements in technology, the use of synthetic materials has increased. However, many people still prefer bags made from natural materials due to their unmatched qualities.

Below is a list of fabrics commonly used in different types of bags. Click on a fabric name to learn more about it.

Additionally, I have included answers to some commonly asked questions that you may find helpful.

What materials are typically used to make women's handbags?

Women's handbags are commonly made from materials like leather, faux leather, suede, canvas, nylon, silk, velvet, and occasionally jute or straw for more casual styles. Designer brands often use luxurious materials like cashmere, jacquard, or satin weave fabric.

What material is best for carrying heavy objects?

The best materials for carrying heavy objects are Cordura, canvas, nylon, and polyester. These materials are durable, resistant to tears, and can handle significant weight without damage.

What material is considered cheap for bags?

Materials like polypropylene, acrylic, and low-grade polyester are considered inexpensive for bag manufacturing. They are lightweight and affordable but may lack the durability and premium feel of other materials.

What material is best for tote bags?

Cotton, canvas, and jute are the best materials for tote bags because they are sturdy, eco-friendly, and versatile. Recycled PET is another great option for sustainable tote bags.

What is the best fabric for bag making?

The best fabric for bag making depends on the type of bag, but leather, canvas, and Cordura are the most versatile and durable choices. For lighter bags, cotton, denim, or nylon work well.

What fabric are school bags made of?

School bags are typically made of durable and water-resistant materials like nylon, polyester, or Cordura. Some higher-end options may incorporate Repreve, a sustainable material made from recycled plastics.

What is the best fabric to make produce bags?

The best fabric for produce bags is cotton, particularly mesh-style cotton, as it is lightweight, breathable, and reusable. Linen and jute are also great eco-friendly options.

What are grocery store bags made of?

Grocery store bags are commonly made of polypropylene (woven or non-woven), plastic (low-density polyethylene), or paper. Reusable grocery bags are often made of canvas, nylon, or recycled PET.

What are Trader Joe's bags made out of?

Trader Joe’s bags are typically made of paper for single-use options and canvas or recycled PET for reusable bags.

What are Kroger bags made of?

Kroger’s reusable bags are commonly made of polypropylene, while their single-use bags are usually made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE) plastic or paper.

What are most designer bags made of?

Most designer bags are made of leather (genuine or exotic types), suede, or luxurious textiles like silk, jacquard, or velvet. High-quality metal or fabric trims are also incorporated.

What is the most expensive bag material?

The most expensive bag materials include exotic leathers (like crocodile, alligator, or ostrich leather), Hermès-specific leathers (like Barenia or Togo leather), and luxury textiles like cashmere or silk.

What are Hermès bags made of?

Hermès bags are crafted from exotic leathers (like crocodile, alligator, and ostrich) and high-quality calf leather (such as Togo or Clemence leather). Some limited editions feature silk or cashmere linings.

What are Gucci bags made of?

Gucci bags are primarily made of leather (including exotic varieties), canvas (often featuring the GG monogram), suede, and occasionally velvet or jacquard.

What are Louis Vuitton bags made of?

Louis Vuitton bags are typically made of coated canvas (Monogram or Damier patterns) combined with leather trim. Some exclusive designs use full leather, suede, or exotic skins.

What material are most purses made of?

Most purses are made of leather, faux leather, nylon, canvas, or silk. High-end purses may use luxurious materials like velvet, suede, or jacquard.

Conclusion

Here you have a comprehensive list of all fabric types used in bags. While some fabrics are commonly used, others serve specific purposes and are utilized where their unique properties are required.

Bags Fabrics Types with Their Features and Uses

Straw

Straw fabric is made from different parts of plants, such as dried cornstalks, leaves, and fibers of different plants. Mostly, the straws of bamboo trees, palm trees, sugarcane plants, coffee plants, and grass are used to make fabrics. 

Features: 

• Straw fabrics are stretchable and water and tear-resistant. 

• Some of the Straw fabrics have amazing lustrous surfaces. 

Applications: 

• Straw fabric is used to make different types of clothes. 

• It is famous in the fashion and home decor industry. 

• Different types of hats and bags are crafted from Straw. 

Recycled PET

Recycled PET is commonly used in the textile industry. It is obtained by recycling polyester products, such as plastic bottles, containers, straws, and other waste materials. 

Features: 

• The products made of recycled PET can be recycled easily. In this way, they are eco-friendly products. 

• This material is transparent. 

• Moreover, they have great flexibility and water resistance. 

Applications: 

• Recycled PET is used to make bottles and packaging of stored food. 

• It is used to make apparel, household items, bags, shoes, and interiors of cars. 

Cordura

This synthetic fiber is obtained from INVISTA yarns. This yarn is processed with different chemicals to make Cordura. 

Features: 

• Along with its sturdiness, it is water-resistant. 

• This fabric has amazing fireproofing qualities. 

Applications: 

• It is used in tents and camps due to its lightweight and breathability. 

• Cordura is also used to make apparel, such as jackets for biking, hiking, and other sports. 

• It is also used to make bags, shoes, and several outdoor products. 

Felt

Felt fabric is derived from animals' wool. This wool is converted into a mass. This mass is processed with a carding machine to make different pieces. These pieces are then exposed to heat to make felt fabric. 

Features: 

• Felt fabric comes with a flame-repellent feature.

• It is also used for noise reduction due to its sound-damping properties. 

• It is an absorbent and breathable material. 

Applications: 

• Different types of hats and shoes are made from this fabric. 

• Felt is widely used in home decorations and household items, such as pillows and bedsheets. 

• It is also used to make different crafts and backpacks. 

Jute

Jute is a particular type of fabric obtained from the jute plant. These plants are retted, and silky fibers are obtained. These fibers are spun and weaved into final jute fabrics. 

Features: 

• This fabric has sturdiness and roughness. 

• It is an abrasion and stain-free fabric. 

• Its fabrics also make it lightweight and breathable. 

Applications: 

• It is one of the most commonly used fabrics for making clothes in hot and humid climates. 

• It is a biodegradable fabric, so it has several applications, such as apparel production, industrial use, agricultural applications, etc.  

• It is also used to make curtains, bags, shoes, etc.  

Denim

Denim is one of the most widely used fabrics in the world. It is also obtained from cotton yarn. The cotton yarn is passed through different chemical and physical processes to make denim fabrics. 

Features: 

• Denim has excellent durability and strength. 

• It is known for its breathability.

• It can take any color easily. 

Applications: 

• Denim is used to make products such as drapes, pillows, blankets, curtains, etc. 

• It is also used to make bags, belts, shoes, hats, pants, shirts, skirts, etc. 

Canvas

Canvas is a strong fabric. Its yarn is obtained from cotton, linen, and hemp plants. The yarn is then weaved in a certain way to obtain the canvas. This canvas is given different colors according to the use. 

Features: 

• Canvas is not only heavy-duty but also water-resistant material. 

• Its threads are thicker and stronger, which increases its durability. 

Applications: 

• Canvas is used to make a wide range of products, such as bags, pants, jackets, shoes, etc. 

• It is also used for making bedsheets, upholstery, and tents. 

• It is also used in the art industry to make different art products, 

Cotton 

Cotton is extracted through the ginning process. This process involves the removal of fluffy fiber from cotton plant seeds, which are then knitted or weaved.

Features: 

• It is soft and comfortable. 

• Cotton is breathable and absorbent.

• It is also durable and versatile.  

Applications:  

• Cotton is used for making bags, apparel, and bedding. 

• It is used for different medical purposes and industrial applications. 

Linen 

Linen is one of the earliest materials in the world. It is included in natural fibers. Moreover, it is extracted from the flax plant. 

Applications:

• It not only provides comfort but also freshness. 

• It is used for protection against extreme heat. 

• Linen is used for making summer dresses, curtains, and bags. 

Features: 

• This material is strong, absorbent, and breathable. 

• This material can get wrinkles quickly. 

• Linen is lightweight, which is why it is used casually. 

Wool 

Wool is also included in the natural fibers as it is made from the skin of sheep, goat, llama, and alpaca fleece. It is also made from the skin of buffaloes, cows, and other mammals. 

Features: 

• It has a hairy and itchy texture. 

• Wool is not only warm and durable but also wear and dust-resistant. 

• It provides insulation and elasticity. 

• It can be damaged by machine washing, so it should be washed by hand or dry cleaned. 

Applications: 

• As it provides insulation, it is used in sweaters, scarves, blankets, and other winter clothes. 

• It is used in expensive coats due to its elegant appearance. 

• It is a durable, soft, comfortable, and versatile fabric. 

Cashmere 

This natural fabric is made from the skin of cashmere goats. These goats are present in Northern India. Famous Kashmir shawls are made from this material and are transported all over the world. 

However, due to its delicacy and softness, this material was used by kings and wealthy people. 

Features: 

• Cashmere is a versatile material that can adjust its temperature according to the body. So, it can be used in all types of seasons. 

• It is known for its delicacy and extra softness. That’s why it can’t tolerate harsh detergents. 

• This material is both breathable and lightweight, making it one of the most comfortable materials in the world. 

Applications: 

• It is one of the most used products in the fashion industry. Sweaters, cardigans, and shawls are Cashmore's most famous products.  

• Some industries use it to make luxurious products, such as sofas, foams, blankets, bags, and many other items. 

Silk 

Silk is a natural fabric derived from the silkworm’s cocoon. It is manufactured chiefly in China, South Asia, and Europe. It is included in one of the most expensive fabrics in the world. 

Features: 

• Silk has a lustrous and smooth appearance. 

• It is lightweight but has great strength. 

• Silk is considered a hypoallergenic and durable fabric. 

• In water, silk fabrics can tighten up. That’s why silk should be washed according to precautionary measures. 

Applications: 

• Silk is used in the fashion industry to make expensive clothes, garments, and dresses. 

• It is also used in blankets, drapery, and upholstery. 

• Accessories such as scarves, ties, and bags also use silk for a glittering appearance. 

Leather

Leather is a widely used material for making a great variety of products. There are different types of leather fabrics. Each is used for a specific purpose:

• Full-grain leather is the strongest of all the leather types. 

• Corrected-grain leather is used for dying and printing. 

• Faux leather is used to make materials similar to the skin of animals. 

• Suede has a beautiful finish. So, it can be used to make fashion products. 

Features: 

• Leather is a strong, durable, and flexible material. 

• It is both a water and climate-resistant material.

• Its appearance is graceful and attractive. 

Applications: 

• Leather is used for making winter jackets, shoes, and furniture. 

• It is also used for making wallets, belts, and handbags. 

• Leather coating is used in vehicles to make them durable and long-lasting. 

Polyester 

Polyester is included in synthetic fabrics. It is derived from petroleum products. 

Features: 

• This fabric has the property of color retention and wrinkle resistance. 

• Due to its high durability and strength, this material has become resilient and wear and tear-free. 

Applications: 

• Several types of shirts, jackets, and hats are made from polyester material. 

• Polyester is used to make bags sturdy and wear-resistant. 

• Several plastic industries use polyester to make their products, such as bedding, upholstery, etc. 

 Nylon

Nylon is another most common  fabric used for making bags. Here are its features and uses.

Features: 

• Nylon is a wrinkle and shrinkage-resistant material. 

• It has an elastic nature, so it can withstand high pressure. 

Applications: 

• Nylon is used to make products such as hosiery, swimwear, and rainwear that are exposed to constant pressure and water. 

• Due to their water resistance ability, these are also used to make bags to protect them from rain and mildew. 

Acrylic 

Acrylic is also a polymer made from acrylate monomers. The most commonly used acrylate monomers include acrylonitrile, acrylic, and methacrylic acids. This is similar to natural fabrics like silk and wool but has less absorption than these fabrics. 

Features: 

• Acrylic is an insulating and lightweight fabric. 

• You will find it in different colors. 

• It can withstand sunlight for a long period. 

Applications: 

• It is used alternatively with silk and wool in sweaters, sportswear, and rugs. 

• Acrylic is also used in the bags, gloves, and upholstery. 

Polypropylene

It is also called a thermoplastic polymer. Its monomers are propylene. Due to its intrinsic nature, it is hard and heat resistant.

Features: 

• Along with its heat resistance, it is a water and color-resistant material. 

• Due to the lower density of its monomers, it has greater flexibility. It can be molded in different shapes. 

Applications: 

• Due to its insulation properties, it is used in winter clothes. 

• Polypropylene is also used in athletic wear and bags and for making plastic materials in different industries. 

Vinyl 

It is also known as Polyvinyl chloride(PVC). It is made from the polymerization of polyvinyl chloride. Forty million tons of PVC is produced each year. It has a wide range of applications. 

Features:

• It is not only flexible but also a sturdy material. 

• Vinyl is a durable and water-resistant material.  

Applications: 

• Along with its wide industrial uses, vinyl is also used for making jackets, raincoats, and bags. 

• It is used in manufacturing construction and electrical insulation materials. 

Spandex 

Spandex is basically made up of polyether-polyurea copolymer. It is widely used in the formation of synthetic, semi-synthetic, and organic fabrics. 

Features: 

• Spandex is famous for its extraordinary flexibility. It can expand six times its original size without damaging its original shape. 

• It has great comfort and softness. 

Applications: 

• Due to its elasticity, it is used in sportswear, undergarments, and workout outwear. 

• Moreover, different other products, such as bags, gloves, swimsuits, cycling suits, dancewear, and warm caps, are made with this synthetic material. 

Viscose 

This soft, semi-synthetic fabric is made up of natural cellulose fibers. It has a number of similar properties to silk due to its glitterness. It comes from the natural cellulose fibers. 

Features: 

• Viscose is a delicate and soft fabric.

• It shrinks and gets wrinkles quickly. 

• However, it has high breathability. 

Applications: 

• Viscose is widely used in dresses due to its comfortability. 

• It is extensively used in summer clothes, such as shorts, shirts, and linings. 

• Moreover, some also use this semi-synthetic fiber to make aesthetic products such as bags. 

Microfiber

Microfiber is made by blending polyester and polyamide. It has ultra-fine fibers. Its fibers are thinner than silk. You can call it the world’s finest fiber. 

Due to its extra softness, it can be easily damaged when washing a machine. It is cleaned through dry cleaning. 

Features: 

• It has great strength and durability. 

• Microfiber can absorb water easily. 

• It has a soft texture. 

Applications: 

• There are several microfiber products, such as cleaning cloths, floor mops, skirts, jackets, bathrobes, and handbags. 

• Recently, it has also been used to make face masks. 

Modal 

Modal is a semi-synthetic material. It is made of both organic and synthetic materials. It is mainly made from birch and oak cellulose. 

Features: 

• Modal fabric has high breathability and moisture-wicking ability. 

• It has a soft and elastic nature. 

• The color and texture are not damaged by washing. 

Applications: 

• Due to its softness, it is used in garments, bed linens, towels, and other products. 

• Some industries used to make T-shirts, sportswear, and backpacks. 

Artificial Silk 

It is made to replicate real silk. It has the same properties as silk to a great extent. However, it is less expensive than real silk. It is made by processing the wood pulps through different chemical processes.

Features: 

• It has a lustrous appearance. 

• It is solid and comfortable. 

• Artificial silk loses its color with time. 

Applications: 

• Due to its lightweight, it is used in several clothes. 

• It is also used to make ropes, nets, seat belts, and parachutes. 

• Moreover, it is used for different military purposes, such as making their bags, uniforms, ropes, etc. 

Faux Fur 

Faux fur is made from a blend of acrylic, polyester, and bed acrylics. These synthetic fibers are woven and dyed to make faux fur of a specific color. Its appearance is quite similar to the fur of different animals. 

Features: 

• It has a texture similar to the animal's skin. 

• It is warm and soft, and it is durable. 

• Faux fur gives a stylish appearance and is resistant to insects. 

Applications: 

• Faux fur is widely used for making coats, jackets, and vests, 

• It is also used to make bedroom items, such as cushions, bedsheets, sofas, etc. 

• Sometimes, it is used for home furnishing purposes and for making decorative bags. 

Repreve

Repreve is made up of polyester fabric that is formed through the recycling of plastic bottles, carpets, etc. These are converted into flakes. These flakes are melted into resin, and repreve fiber is produced. 

Features: 

• Repreve is the result of eco-friendly processes. 

• It is not only durable but also resistant to shrinking. 

• It has the ability to protect from the UV rays. 

Applications: 

• Repreve is widely used for making swimwear, activewear, and outerwear. 

• As it is weather-resistant, it is used to make curtains, upholstery, and durable bags. 

Polyester-cotton 

Polyester-cotton is made by a blend of cotton and polyester. It will have the characteristics of both fabrics. Usually, 65% cotton and 35% polyester are used to make this blended fabric. 

Features: 

• This polycotton will be soft and biodegradable. 

• It is a durable and wrinkle-resistant fabric. 

• Due to its water-absorbing feature, it is widely used in garments. 

Applications: 

• Several types of clothes, such as undergarments, swimming suits, overalls suits, etc.

•  This material is also used to make bed sheets, curtains, and backpacks. 

CVC (Cotton-polyester)

This cotton polyester is also called Chief Value Cotton. It is also made by blending the cotton and polyester. However, the percentage of cotton in the mixture is higher. The ratio of cotton-polyester is 60 to 40 or 80 to 20. 

Features: 

• This blend is made to make the fabric more resistant to wrinkles. 

• Due to the mixture, it has high durability and strength. 

• It has a soft and comfortable texture. 

Applications: 

• Due to its soft texture, it is widely used in the textile industry for making shirts, bed linens, and athletic wear. 

• Moreover, this fabric is used to make garments and bags for athletes. 

Suede 

 Suede is a fabric made from leather. The leather for this fabric is obtained from the lambskin, goats, pigs, calves, deer, etc. It is specifically obtained from the underside of the skin. That’s why it is soft and comfortable. 

Suede is not washed with water. It has a special cleaning method. 

Features: 

• Suede has a soft and delicate touch. 

• It is flexible and durable. That’s why it can retain its luxurious texture for the long term. 

Applications: 

• Suede is also used in various jackets, boots, gloves, and bags. 

• It is also used for furnishing purposes. 

Chiffon

Chiffon was introduced in France for the very first time. Silk, cotton, nylon, polyester, and rayon are used to make this fabric. There is a complex method for making this fabric. First of all, silkworms produce raw silk, which is then softened and reeled in fibers. There are several other chemical processes through which these filaments are passed. 

Features: 

• This fabric is quite light and thin. Air can easily pass through this fabric. Moreover, it is a transparent material. 

• It is similar to mesh. 

Applications: 

• It is mainly used in summer clothes. 

• Chiffon is also used in prom gowns, bridesmaid dresses, and scarves. 

• It is also used to make clothes glitter. 

Tweed 

Tweed is made from the wool of special types of sheep. Their wool is passed through various processes to make tweed. However, tweed is then used to make several other products. 

Features: 

• This wool is thick, rough, and flexible. 

• It has great strength. 

• It is warm and water-resistant. 

Applications: 

• Tweed is extensively used in warm clothes, such as trousers, caps, and blazers. 

• Moreover, industries use it to make curtains, upholstery, and bags. 

Georgette

Georgette is also obtained from silk. It is obtained through silk but through different processes. There are different solid colors of this fabric.

Features: 

• It is a fashionable and stylish fabric. 

• Its texture is crinkled and bounced.

• It has permanent colors that cannot be washed with washing. 

Applications: 

• It is used in the fashion industry for making beautiful dresses, blouses, scarves, and skirts. 

• Most commonly, it is used for making wedding dresses. 

Velvet 

Velvet is a special type of fabric that is made from vertical yarn. Yarn is woven in a specific style to get velvet. Velvet is a lustrous and aesthetic material. 

Features: 

• This material has great density, a soft texture, and a glittering surface. 

• Moreover, it can create the illusion of colors when light falls on it. 

Applications: 

• The velvet material is used for furnishing and decorating purposes. 

• This material is used to make different types of costumes and products, such as women's bags. 

Satin Weave Fabric 

Satin weave fabric is made by weaving long strands of yarn. These yarns are weaved in a specific manner to obtain satin fabric. The filament fibers of silk, nylon, or polyester are used to make this fabric. 

There are two types of satin fabrics. 

• Warp-face satin 

• Filling-face satin

Features: 

• Satin has a glossy and smooth texture. 

• However, it is not durable and long-lasting. 

• It has a soft touch, but one side is dull. 

Applications: 

• It is used to make several types of outfits, such as evening wear or lingerie, athletic shorts, and sports jackets. 

• Due to its shine, it is also used to make different decorative items for the home. 

• Moreover, it is also used inside the bags, ties, hats, and shoes. 

Organza 

Organza is actually a silk fabric. It is obtained by treating the yarn through different chemical treatments. First of all, the yarn is twisted and then treated with an acid. Now, you have to weave the yarn again. 

This fabric has been used from the very past in Italy and France. 

Features: 

• Organza is a stiff material. It is due to its treatment with acid. Moreover, it has very little flexibility. 

• It can be molded into different shapes. 

• Moreover, it also has an attractive, glamorous texture. 

Applications:

• Organza is used to make the outer layer of the thicker clothes.

• Different apparel, such as wedding dresses, evening wear, and sleep dresses, use this fabric. 

• Many industries also use it to make bags, curtains, furniture items, and crafts.  

Tulle 

This fabric is made by mixing different materials, including silk blends, cotton, nylon, rayon, and acetate. There are different methods to produce tulle, such as Bobbinet. 

Tulli was crafted in France for the very first time. However, later, it was used in Queen Victoria's dresses. 

Features: 

•  It is lightweight and has a net-like appearance.

• It is soft and airy. 

• Along with its transparent nature, it is very flexible. 

Applications: 

• Different types of veils and gowns are made through this fabric. 

• This material is also used to make decorative clothes. 

• Sometimes, it is also used for layering purposes, furnishing, and embroidered bags.