People cannot think of their daily routine without paper bags as these are used for varied purposes ranging from packing lunches, to bring in the groceries, to take out the trash, to hold things and help stay organized. These bags were invented in the 1850's. Before there were paper bags, people would bring a container to hold the things they bought at the market, possibly a basket.

Types of Paper Bags
Today, four main types of paper bags are made: the flat bag, the square bag, the satchel-bottom bag and the automatic bag. The flat bag is a tube of paper sealed at one end, the square bag has tucks on the side to allow for more space. A satchel bottom bag has a large bottom section so that it can stand upright when it is filled up and the automatic bag is designed so that it can be opened up with a snap of the wrist.

Design & Style
Colorful graphics can be added to any paper bag to make a unique marketing statement for the business. The outstanding graphics and print quality on a paper bag give the advertising messages the greatest impact. These are perfect for printing the company logo, or promotional message. Simple paper bags make wonderful containers for gifts, especially when they are made from handmade paper.

Usage
Handmade paper bags are the environmental choice as well as the shopper's choice. A wide array of paper shopping bags are suitable for use in many retail and food-service operations. In addition to shopping bags, grocery bags and bags to put the garbage in, are also made of paper. Garments come back from the cleaner in long paper bags. Even cement, lime, fertilizer, salt, calcium chloride and other chemicals are sold in bags of heavy tough Kraft paper.