In today’s fast-paced, visually-driven marketplace, first impressions are everything. Whether you’re a small business owner, a clothing designer, a craft seller, or a packaging supplier, the little details matter. One such overlooked but incredibly impactful detail is the tag with string attached, also known as tags with string ties. These simple accessories do more than label — they communicate brand identity, price, authenticity, and even sentiment.
This guide explores everything about tags with strings — their types, materials, customisation, use cases, and why they are a staple in retail, fashion, gifting, and beyond.
Why Tags with Strings Matter
Tags with strings attached offer far more than utility. They’re a blend of form and function — serving both practical purposes (like product information or pricing) and aesthetic roles (like reinforcing brand tone or adding rustic charm).
Functions at a Glance:
- Product identification
- Brand representation
- Pricing and sizing
- Gifting and personalization
- Instructional or safety labelling
Common Materials Used in Tags with String Ties
A well-designed tag starts with the right materials. Both the tag and the string can be customised for functionality and appearance.
Tag Materials:
- Kraft Paper: Eco-friendly and durable. Popular for vintage or handmade branding.
- Cardstock: Thicker and more premium in feel. Suitable for luxury brands.
- Plastic or PVC: Waterproof and long-lasting. Ideal for outdoor gear or industrial use.
- Fabric or Linen: Offers a tactile, high-end touch often used in premium clothing.
String Materials:
- Cotton Twine: Natural and biodegradable; pairs well with kraft paper.
- Elastic String: Easy to loop around irregularly shaped products.
- Jute String: Rustic and robust — ideal for handmade or earthy branding.
- Waxed Cord: Adds a sleek, polished look. Resistant to fraying.
- Silk or Satin Ribbons: Used for premium packaging and gifting.
Types of Tags with Strings Attached
Understanding the different types can help match the right style to your use case.
1. Hang Tags with Strings
Common in fashion retail, hang tags carry branding, pricing, and sizing details. They are often custom-printed and attached to garments via cotton or elastic strings.
2. Swing Tags with String
Interchangeable with hang tags in many industries. These are often more design-forward, swinging freely from products and offering visual engagement.
3. Gift Tags with String
Used in events, personal gifting, or retail packaging, these tags often feature handwritten notes or seasonal messages.
4. Price Tags with String
Simple, functional tags found in retail shops. Often come in packs and used with manual labelling or barcode stickers.
5. Custom Tags with String
Designed from scratch to match your brand’s theme — printed logos, QR codes, care instructions, or unique shapes.
Customisation Options for Tags with String Ties
Whether you’re looking for minimalism or maximum impact, customisation is key.
Print Techniques:
- Digital Printing: Best for full-colour or photographic designs.
- Letterpress: Adds a tactile, debossed texture.
- Foil Stamping: Metallic or glossy accents for luxury finishes.
- Screen Printing: Economical and ideal for bulk production.
Shape and Size:
- Standard Rectangles: Common and cost-effective.
- Circles and Ovals: Soft and elegant.
- Custom Die-Cuts: Unique shapes like hearts, stars, or your brand logo.
String Attachments:
- Pre-tied Loops: Speeds up attachment in high-volume operations.
- Loose Strings: Offers flexibility for hand-tying or knotting.
- Metal Eyelets: Reinforces the string hole for durability.
Industries That Rely on Tags with Strings
Tags with strings find use across diverse industries:
1. Fashion & Apparel
- Used for branding, size info, pricing, and care instructions.
- Often custom-designed with logo and matching string tones.
2. Retail & Product Packaging
- Tags identify products, convey promotions, or offer QR codes to digital content.
3. Gift & Stationery
- Adds a personalised touch to gift bags, wedding favours, and invitations.
4. Hospitality & Events
- Used as part of room décor, gift baskets, or event name tags.
5. Food & Beverage
- Artisanal goods, like jams or wine bottles, use tags for a handcrafted feel.
Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Trends
With rising awareness around sustainability, eco-friendly string tags are in demand.
Popular Sustainable Options:
- Recycled Kraft Paper
- Cotton or Hemp Strings
- Soy-Based Inks for Printing
- Plastic-Free, Biodegradable Tags
Consumers now pay attention to packaging details, and string tags made from eco-conscious materials can elevate brand trust.
Where to Buy or Order Tags with String
Online Suppliers:
- Offer bulk discounts and customisation.
- UK-based companies like tagsandbags.co.uk, and Notonthehighstreet provide easy custom tag options.
Local Printers:
- Great for fast turnaround and sampling.
- Allows you to feel the material before committing to a large batch.
Craft Stores & Marketplaces:
- Etsy or Amazon UK are great for pre-made, blank string tags.
- Often come in packs suitable for events or small businesses.
Best Practices for Designing Effective Tags with String Ties
To ensure your tags make a lasting impact, follow these practical tips:
- Keep Branding Consistent: Match fonts, colours, and tones to your core brand identity.
- Use Readable Fonts: Aesthetics should never compromise clarity.
- Choose the Right String Length: Too long feels untidy; too short limits flexibility.
- Include a Call-to-Action: QR code, discount, or social media handle.
Do Tags with Strings Improve Customer Experience?
Absolutely. Tags with string ties offer a tactile, memorable brand experience. Whether they’re flipped, read, or kept as keepsakes, they add a human touch in a digital world.
According to a survey conducted by Packaging Innovations UK (2023), 72% of consumers said premium packaging with custom tags increased their perceived value of a product. The right tag can enhance unboxing, create emotional connection, and prompt repeat business.
Tags with strings attached are much more than simple identifiers. They’re storytellers, brand ambassadors, and aesthetic enhancers. Whether you’re aiming for rustic charm, luxury appeal, or minimalist clarity, the right combination of tag material and string tie can speak volumes about your product or gift.
In a world where attention to detail matters, don’t underestimate the power of a string tag.
