In the world of packaging the search for the right bag isn’t simple; and the most difficult task consists of finding the ideal closure type to close the packaging: the closure must be elegant, stylish and functional for the product inside the bag.
During the packaging design process, both material and closure type are chosen. In order to better highlight the displayed product, the right material is chosen taking into consideration the packaging shape and the thickness of the material, transparency and colour. However, the decision as to the closure type is often the crucial moment: the closure is indeed the starting point for the entire packaging project because it plays a key-role in adding value to the product inside the bag and in answering the practical and functional need of the client in relation to its industry sector, from large-scale distribution to fashion, from the cosmetic to the promotional sectors, from home textile to stationery.
Below you can find a guide illustrating 5 different closure types: cursor, button, double-sided tape band, seal and Velcro, grip seal, and hanger. The guide will help you to find the ideal closure for your packaging according to your needs, product sector and display options and, last but not least, according to the life that the packaging should have in the final consumers’ hands.
1. Cursor
This solution is mainly used for fashion, large-scale distribution, the cosmetic and promotional sectors to protect highly perishable products. They must also be protected from external agents during the frequent opening and closing of the packaging. The cursor isn’t only an elegant and stylish finish but it’s also practical and resistant: in fact the final consumer can reuse the bag many times after purchase whether as a container for different items or as a fashion accessory. The slider or zipper can be made from classic plastic materials or in bioplastic, a biobased material derived from sugar cane with low environmental impact. This closure type is available in either transparent or coloured material.
2. Button
This elegant and practical closure can be used in fashion, cosmetic, advertising, stationary and home textile sectors: it’s a perfect dual concept of an engaging beauty and strong closure that allows the bag to be opened many times without damaging it in order to show the products during sales. This closure type can be worthwhile for the final consumer to reuse the bags for putting the purchased products, like clothing, household linen or cosmetics, back in the bag.
3. Double-sided tape band, seal and Velcro
This closure type is very common in the fashion, stationery and home textile sectors and it is mainly suitable for clients who are looking for a simple yet functional solution as an alternative to the button. Velcro can be used for satisfying every need and it is also really practical for placing the bag closure in different positions according to the product size. The seal and double-sided tape band are an economical and useful solution that are sometimes used for handling products in shops or warehouses.
4. Grip seal
The grip seal is important in fashion, the cosmetic sector, stationery, home textile and large-scale distribution because it is seen as an elegant and economical alternative to other closure types. The packaging can be opened and closed at different times. The grip seal is highly functional for the large-scale distribution sector if it is used with a hole for hanging products during their display. This closure type protects the articles and greatly reduces the risk of unwelcome handling and openings of the bags.
5. Hanger
The hanger is mainly used in the large-scale distribution sector: it plays a key-role in giving value to the product inside the bag and in protecting the articles when they are being displayed. The hanger is embedded, i.e. inserted and sealed, in the packaging in order to strengthen it and to avoid the packaging suffering damage or a breakage of the bag during its handling and display. This solution combined with the button or the double-sided tape band is particularly functional and useful.