How to Put Name Tags on Tote Bags That You Sew
Name tags can add a decorative and informative finishing touch to the tote bags you sew. You may want the name tags to include your name (or company name), or the name of the tote bag recipient. You may even choose to include your company logo or a small picture on the tag, as well as your website, or washing and drying instructions for the bag. You can order custom name tags from an online store, such as the Namemaker website, or you can make your own name tags using ribbon and iron-on transfer paper.
Things You'll Need
- Computer and printer
- Plain paper
- Iron-on transfer paper compatible with the printer
- 1/2 to 1 inch wide satin ribbon
- Scissors
- Iron
- Press cloth or clean handkerchief
- Anti-fray liquid, such as Fray Check
- Thread that matches the tote bag
- Sewing machine or hand sewing needle
Instructions
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Creating Name Tags for Tote Bags
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1
Type the name(s) you wish to use on the tag in a word processor or layout software. Choose a font for the name tag that complements the style of the tote bag. Resize the font so that it’s slightly shorter than the ribbon you’re using for the name tag.
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2
Add an icon, logo, small clip art picture or photograph to the name tag (optional).
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3
Print the name tag on plain paper to make sure it looks the way you want, and to check that it’s right size for the ribbon.
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4
Print the name tag (or tags) on a sheet of iron-on transfer paper. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to make sure to load the transfer paper correctly in the printer. Use only transfer paper that is compatible with the printer.
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5
Cut out the name tag, and remove the backing paper if directed to do so by the iron-on transfer instructions. Cut a piece of ribbon slightly wider than the name tag, and center the name tag transfer on the ribbon.
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6
Place a press cloth (or a piece of plain cotton, such as a clean handkerchief) on top of the name tag, being careful to keep the transfer correctly positioned on the ribbon. This will help protect it from the heat of the iron, and prevent the transfer paper from sticking to the iron.
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7
Iron the transfer to the ribbon following the transfer paper manufacturer’s directions. Let the name tag cool completely.
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8
Apply a small amount of anti-fry liquid (available at most fabric stores) to the ends of the ribbon to keep them from unraveling.
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9
Position the name tag on the tote bag near the top edge of the inside, or in the place of your choice. Fold the ends of the name tag under slightly, or leave them flat, depending on how you want the name tag to look.
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10
Sew the name tag to the tote bag along both sides or along the upper edge only, using hand stitches or a decorative machine stitch.
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Tips & Warnings
For a more professional look, you can order custom name tags from a website that offers personalized sewing labels, such as the Namemaker website. This site allows you to design your own name tags, or add your name to a template. Attach the custom name tags to the tote bags the same way as a homemade name tag.
Use caution when working with irons and sewing machines. Always unplug the iron immediately after use and allow it cool in a safe place.
