The origins of cotton string mesh net bags

String bags, also called mesh or net bags, date from late 19th-century France, where they were known as filet bags. Families in the fishing areas of Normandy made them with net-making skills and cord, and they became an everyday reusable shopping bag for bread, fruit and vegetables because they are light and stretch to fit the load.

Earth Totes makes two updated versions in organic cotton for Australian retailers: CANDY, a mesh tote with two handles, and CECILE, a string bag with double handles. Both fold into an internal zip pocket. They are sold wholesale in packs of 10 and sit with grocery, fruit and veg, gift, pharmacy and newsagency ranges. See the mesh and string bag collection.