What are the most common recycled fabrics used for tote bags?
RPET Woven which is commonly referred to as Post-Consumer recycled plastics, and Recycled Non-Woven Polypropylene which is made from Post-Industrial (Pre-Consumer) recycled content. What are the distinguishing characteristics and price points of each of those fabrics? RPET Woven is made from 51% recycled plastic fibers that are spun or woven together with 49% polyester creating a texture very similar to the feel of 600D Polyester Canvas. The resulting fabric is lightweight, structured and very durable. The manufacturing process and the recycling of Post-Consumer material are more expensive than that of the corresponding Non-Woven fabric which makes use of Post-Industrial or Pre-Consumer content, so the price point is more of a premium. RPET Non-Woven is made from 100% recycled plastic fibers that have been bonded together, creating a soft texture. The process of making Non-Woven PET fabric is less expensive than the process of making woven PET fabric, so it is very budget-friendly whil