Gusset paper bag
Kraft wrap, flat bottom with side gussets200 minimum · 10 to 12 business daysA gusset bag is a kraft paper bag with folded panels on both sides that let it expand from flat to a squared-off, self-standing shape, so it holds its footprint open while you're filling it instead of collapsing in on itself like a flat pouch. It's the format behind most retail lunch bags and bakery sacks for a reason: the gusset does the structural work that a flat-sided bag can't. We produce them from 200 units, ready in about 10 to 12 business days after proof.
When to choose it, and when not to
Choose a gusset bag when whatever's going inside needs the bag to stand open on its own while you're loading it. Retail sacks, bakery bags, and takeout-style packaging all rely on the gusset to keep the shape from collapsing during the fill.
Choose a flat kraft shopping bag instead if the bag's just carrying something already boxed or wrapped. The gusset construction costs more to tool and isn't doing any work if there's nothing loose that needs the bag to hold its shape.
Specifications
| Stock | Kraft wrap, uncoated or printed exterior |
|---|---|
| Construction | Flat bottom with expandable side gussets |
| Handle | Flat paper handle or none, depending on size |
| Full color exterior, one to four colors on the flat panel | |
| Minimum | 200 units |
| Lead time | 10 to 12 business days after proof |
| Prototype | On request; timing confirmed in your quote |
| Sizes we run | 5 x 3 x 9 in (bakery or retail small item) 8 x 4.5 x 10 in (grocery or gift) custom dimension to your product |
Materials that suit it
Questions people ask
How much does the gusset actually expand the bag's capacity?
A fair amount. The side panels fold flat for storage and shipping but open to give the bag real depth and a squared footprint once it's loaded. We can walk through capacity for your specific product dimensions.
Can you add a handle to this bag?
Yes, a flat paper handle is a common addition on the larger sizes. Smaller bakery-scale bags typically skip the handle since they're carried by the top edge.
Does the kraft stock hold up to a bit of grease or moisture?
Standard kraft wrap handles light contact fine. For direct food contact with grease-prone items, we'd point you toward our food-and-drink line, which uses coated boards built for that specific exposure.
What's the minimum print area on this bag?
The full front panel is available for printing at any size. We can also keep it to a smaller logo hit on the front if that's the look you want.
Can this bag be recycled or composted?
Uncoated kraft wrap is recyclable through standard paper streams. If you need a compostable claim specifically, let us know before we finalize materials, since that changes the coating spec.
How does the price change at higher volumes?
The gusset fold adds a manufacturing step versus a flat bag, so per-unit cost drops more noticeably at scale. We can quote 200, 1,000, and 5,000 side by side.
How is the gusset paper bag different from the kraft paper shopping bag?
The gusset bag is built to stand open while you fill it: kraft with a flat bottom and expandable side gussets, a flat handle or none, printed full color, for retail sacks, bakery and takeout-style use. The kraft paper shopping bag is the carrier with twisted handles and a bottom board, in 90 to 120 gsm kraft, made to be carried out of a shop. Both start at 200 units in 10 to 12 business days after proof. Counter filling suits the gusset bag; carrying boxed purchases suits the shopping bag.
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Ready to price your gusset paper bag?
Send the size and quantity for a quote and a dieline, usually within one business day. Your digital proof follows, usually within one business day of your artwork. Design help and the Swatch Book of materials are free.