FAQs
The questions we are asked most.
If yours is not here, ask us directly, we answer specification questions whether or not you order.
What is your minimum order quantity?
500 bags on our small, medium and large sizes, and 1,000 often costs only a little more in total, so it is worth pricing both. Short runs are the reason AP&D exists, if a supplier has told you your quantity is too small, ask us.
How long does a bespoke order take?
Typically four to eight weeks from artwork approval. Hot foil, dye-matched ribbon and rigid boxes each add time. If you have a fixed date, tell us at the first conversation and we will plan backwards from it.
Can you work from just a logo?
Yes, and most of our clients do. Our in-house design studio develops the structure, artwork, colour and finish from whatever you have, often a single logo file.
Do you supply outside Ireland?
Yes. We supply the island of Ireland, the United Kingdom, mainland Europe and the United States. Delivery terms and freight are confirmed with your quotation.
Can I see a sample before committing?
Always. Nothing goes to production off a screen. You get a physical sample in the real stock with the real handle, and we do not proceed until you have signed it off.
How do I reorder?
Artwork and specification stay on file. Use the repeat order form or email us the job reference and quantity, no new setup, no new proofs unless something changes.
Are your bags recyclable?
Unlaminated bags with water-based varnish, paper or cotton handles are fully recyclable in the paper stream. Film-laminated bags are not, which is why we always present both options with the trade-offs stated.
Can you match my exact brand colour?
On paper, yes, using Pantone spot inks and physical proofs on your chosen stock. On ribbon we use dye-to-match lab dips. We check colour on a physical proof rather than a screen, because coated and uncoated stocks render the same reference very differently.
By topic
Bags and sizes
What are your standard paper bag sizes?
Small 17.5 x 7.5 x 15cm, medium 31 x 10 x 22cm and large 41 x 12 x 32cm (width x gusset x height), each with a folded turnover top whose depth varies by bag.
Which bag size is the most popular?
Small bags for gift cards and small purchases are the most popular, followed by medium bags that take an A4 sheet, then large bags for coats, dresses and bulkier items.
What paper weight is used for each size?
White C1S (coated one side) art paper at 170gsm for small, 190gsm for medium and 210gsm for large bags.
How long are the rope handles?
A variety of rope and ribbon materials and styles are available in a wide range of colours. Typical rope lengths are 40cm on small, 45cm on medium and 50cm on large bags.
Can you make a bag in a custom size?
Yes. Width, gusset and height can all be made to suit what the bag needs to hold. Tell us the contents and quantity and we will recommend dimensions and paper.
By topic
Print finishes
Which print finish is most popular on luxury bags?
A textured paper finish, chosen on around 90% of bags, adds tactile quality for very little extra cost. Hot foil is chosen on around 70% of bags.
What colours can hot foil be?
Hot foil comes in a wide range of metallic and matt colours, including gold, silver, copper, rose gold and black. We help match the foil to your brand.
Should I add embossing to a foiled logo?
Most clients who foil also emboss. Raising the foiled logo adds depth and catches the light, and the two finishes are produced together.
Is gloss lamination still used?
Matt lamination is the standard outside finish. Gloss is available but has largely fallen out of fashion for luxury packaging.
What is Soft Sheen lamination?
Soft Sheen is a newer, premium lamination with a gentle satin feel. It costs more than matt and is an option for brands wanting something distinctive.
By topic
Design and sampling
Do I need finished artwork to order?
No. Most clients start with a logo. Our in-house studio develops the layout, colour, structure and finish for you.
Is design included in the price?
Design support for your packaging is part of how we work. Any substantial brand or illustration work is quoted up front before it begins.
Will I see a physical sample?
As part of the process, we can make a pre-production sample upon request, in the real stock with the real handle.
Can you match my brand colours?
Yes, using Pantone spot inks checked on a physical proof on your chosen paper, because screens and different stocks render colour differently.
By topic
Sustainability
Are your paper bags recyclable?
Unlaminated bags with water-based varnish and paper or cotton handles are recyclable in the paper stream. Film-laminated bags are not, so we always present both options.
Do you offer an unlaminated bag?
Yes. Our eco unlaminated bags avoid plastic film entirely and pair well with cotton rope handles.
Is cotton or polypropylene rope more sustainable?
Cotton rope keeps the bag closer to a single natural material stream. Braided polypropylene is more durable but is a plastic.
Tell us what goes in the bag.
Send the brief, or the vaguest version of it, and we will come back with a specification, a cost and an honest lead time.