Abstract: A patch handle bottom valve bag is formed from a tubular length of plastics material and is provided with a reinforcing patch, of a width less than 50% the width of the bag, adjacent the upper edge of the bag. The patch is heat sealed to one panel of the bag by a pair of linear heat seals and a handle opening is pieced through the patch and the underlying panels of the bag. The bag includes a heat seal which extends transversely of the bag, spaced from the upper edge thereof, this heat seal also extending across the patch adjacent the lower edge thereof. The bottom of the bag is formed in a conventional manner into a block bottom with a valve sleeve inserted and secured therein. The provision of the heat sealed reinforcing patch provides a stronger bag, one which uses less material, and one which will have fewer manufacturing problems when compared to existing reinforced bags.