When ordering custom lanyards for your business, school, conference or event, one of the decisions you may need to make is whether to choose a flat lanyard or a tubular lanyard.
Although both styles are designed to hold identification cards, access cards, keys and name badges, they have different constructions and appearances. Flat lanyards are made from a flat strip of material, while tubular lanyards are made from a rounded, tube-shaped cord.
The difference affects how the lanyard looks, feels and displays your branding. Understanding these features can help you choose the right option for your organisation.
At IDCBand, custom lanyards are available in different materials, printing styles and designs, including flat, woven and tubular options.
In this guide, we explain what flat and tubular lanyards are, how they compare and which option may be suitable for your requirements.
What Are Flat Lanyards?
Flat lanyards are made from a flat strip of fabric, commonly polyester. Unlike rounded cord-style lanyards, the material lies flat against the wearer.
This construction provides a visible surface for branding, making flat lanyards a popular choice for companies and organisations that want to display their logos, names or promotional messages.
Flat lanyards can be customised using different printing and branding methods, depending on the design and product specification.
Features of Flat Lanyards
1. Flat fabric construction
The strap has a flat, ribbon-like shape rather than a rounded cord. This gives it a defined surface that can display printed or woven designs.
2. Branding space
The flat surface provides room for company logos, text, brand colours and other visual elements. The final branding options depend on the selected production method.
3. Different printing options
Flat lanyards can be produced with different branding methods, including screen printing and full-colour printing, depending on the required design.
4. Different attachment options
Flat lanyards can be supplied with suitable attachments for ID cards, badge holders, keys and other accessories. The attachment should match the item being carried.
Where Are Flat Lanyards Used?
Flat lanyards are commonly used in:
- Corporate offices for employee identification.
- Schools and universities for student and staff cards.
- Conferences and exhibitions for attendee badges.
- Hospitals and workplaces for identification purposes.
- Promotional campaigns where company branding is important.
If your organisation wants a lanyard that displays its logo clearly, a flat lanyard is worth considering.
What Are Tubular Lanyards?
Tubular lanyards are made from material formed into a rounded, tube-like cord. Instead of having a flat ribbon shape, the strap has a circular or rounded appearance.
This gives tubular lanyards a different look from standard flat lanyards. They are often selected for their simple cord-style design and can be used to carry identification cards, keys and other lightweight accessories.
Tubular lanyards can also be fitted with suitable attachments, depending on the intended use.
Features of Tubular Lanyards
1. Rounded construction
The most noticeable feature is the rounded shape. The material forms a tube rather than a flat strip.
2. Simple appearance
Tubular lanyards have a straightforward cord-style appearance, making them suitable for organisations that prefer a less traditional ribbon-style lanyard.
3. Suitable for carrying accessories
They can be used with compatible attachments to carry keys, identification cards and other small items.
4. Different branding possibilities
Branding options depend on the specific tubular lanyard design and production method. If you require a logo or printed message, confirm the available options before ordering.
Where Are Tubular Lanyards Used?
Tubular lanyards may be suitable for:
- Promotional giveaways.
- Conferences and events.
- General identification.
- Carrying keys and small accessories.
- Organisations looking for a rounded cord-style lanyard.
The right choice will depend on the appearance you want and whether the available branding options meet your requirements.
Flat vs Tubular Lanyards: What Is the Difference?
The biggest difference between flat and tubular lanyards is their construction. Flat lanyards have a ribbon-like strap, while tubular lanyards have a rounded cord-style shape.
However, there are other factors worth considering before placing an order.
1. Shape and Construction
Flat lanyards have a wide, flat surface that lies against the wearer. Tubular lanyards have a rounded construction that gives them a cord-like appearance.
If you prefer a traditional branded strap, flat lanyards may be the better option. If you prefer a simple rounded cord, consider tubular lanyards.
2. Branding and Printing
Flat lanyards provide a visible surface for company logos, text and designs. Depending on the product, they can be produced using screen printing, full-colour printing or woven branding.
Tubular lanyards have a different surface and construction, so the available branding methods may differ.
If displaying your company logo prominently is a priority, discuss the artwork and printing requirements before choosing your lanyard.
3. Appearance
Flat lanyards have a more traditional identification strap appearance. Their visible surface makes them suitable for displaying company branding and event information.
Tubular lanyards have a rounded cord-style appearance. They offer a different look for organisations that do not necessarily need a wide branding surface.
4. Everyday Use
Both types can be used to carry identification cards, keys and other accessories when fitted with suitable attachments.
The most important consideration is whether the lanyard is compatible with the item you intend to carry and whether it is appropriate for the working environment.
5. Customisation
Flat lanyards offer a range of branding possibilities, including different colours, prints and woven designs.
Tubular lanyards can also be specified according to the available product options, but the shape and surface affect the type of branding that can be applied.
Always confirm the available colours, printing method and attachments before approving your order.
Which Lanyard Should You Choose?
Choosing between flat and tubular lanyards depends on your branding requirements, intended use and preferred appearance.
Here are a few examples to help you decide.
Choose Flat Lanyards If:
- You want your company logo displayed on a visible fabric surface.
- You need branded lanyards for employees or staff members.
- You want to include text, colours or a specific design.
- You are ordering lanyards for a conference or exhibition.
- You want to compare screen-printed, full-colour printed or woven branding options.
Choose Tubular Lanyards If:
- You prefer a rounded cord-style design.
- You want a simpler alternative to a flat fabric strap.
- You need a lanyard for general identification or carrying accessories.
- The available tubular branding options meet your requirements.
There is no universal answer. The best lanyard is the one that meets your practical needs and gives you the appearance you want.
What Should You Consider Before Ordering Custom Lanyards?
Before requesting a quotation, consider the following details to help make sure the lanyards meet your requirements.
1. What Will the Lanyards Be Used For?
Start by identifying the purpose of the order.
Are the lanyards for employees, students, conference attendees, visitors or promotional activities?
This will help determine the most suitable style, material and attachment.
2. What Branding Do You Need?
Decide whether you want your company logo, text, website address or another design included.
If you have an existing logo, provide the artwork so the appropriate branding method can be discussed.
3. What Colour Do You Want?
Consider your company colours or the theme of your event.
For branded lanyards, using consistent colours can help create a recognisable appearance across your organisation.
4. Which Attachment Do You Need?
The attachment is the part that connects the lanyard to the ID card holder, badge or accessory.
Common options include swivel hooks, J-hooks, lobster claw clips and other suitable fittings.
Make sure the selected attachment is compatible with the item you intend to carry.
5. How Many Lanyards Do You Need?
Quantity is important when requesting a quotation. Provide the number of lanyards required and indicate whether you need different colours or designs.
6. When Do You Need Them?
Always provide your required delivery date, particularly when ordering for a conference, exhibition or event.
Custom lanyard production times can vary from a few days to approximately three weeks, depending on the design, branding method and production requirements.
Allow time for artwork preparation, approval, production and delivery.
Why Are Custom Lanyards Useful for Businesses?
Lanyards are practical accessories that can be used across different industries.
For businesses, they provide a convenient way to carry employee identification cards and display company branding.
For schools and universities, they can help students and staff carry identification cards.
At conferences and exhibitions, branded lanyards can make attendee badges easier to display while giving organisers an opportunity to incorporate event branding.
They can also be used as promotional products, helping businesses distribute branded items to employees, customers and event attendees.
The right lanyard design should balance appearance, functionality and the intended purpose.
Frequently Asked Questions About Flat and Tubular Lanyards
What is the difference between a flat and tubular lanyard?
A flat lanyard is made from a flat strip of fabric, while a tubular lanyard is made from rounded, tube-shaped material. They have different appearances and branding surfaces.
Are flat lanyards better than tubular lanyards?
Neither is automatically better. Flat lanyards are useful when you want a visible surface for branding, while tubular lanyards are suitable if you prefer a rounded cord-style design.
Can flat lanyards be printed with company logos?
Yes. Flat lanyards can be customised with company logos and other branding using available printing or weaving methods, depending on the selected product.
Can tubular lanyards carry ID cards?
Yes. Tubular lanyards can be fitted with suitable attachments to carry compatible ID cards, badge holders and other accessories.
Which lanyard is best for corporate use?
Flat branded lanyards are a popular option for corporate identification because they provide a visible surface for company logos and colours. The final choice depends on your organisation’s requirements.
Can I choose the attachment for my lanyard?
Yes. Standard attachment options can be selected to suit the intended use. Confirm the preferred attachment and card holder requirements when requesting a quotation.
How long does it take to produce custom lanyards?
Production time depends on the design and branding method. IDCBand’s custom lanyard lead times can range from a few days to approximately three weeks. Confirm the expected timeframe when placing your order.
What width are IDCBand lanyards?
IDCBand’s standard lanyard specification is 20mm wide. If you require a particular style or specification, confirm the details with the team before ordering.
Order Custom Lanyards from IDCBand
Whether you prefer a flat branded lanyard or a rounded tubular design, choosing the right style starts with understanding what you need it to do.
Flat lanyards provide a visible surface for branding, making them suitable for businesses, schools, conferences and promotional activities. Tubular lanyards offer a different cord-style appearance for general identification and carrying accessories.
IDCBand supplies custom lanyards in different fabrics, sizes, printing styles and attachment options.
If you are planning an order, send us your required quantity, preferred design, branding and delivery date. Our team can assist with the available options and provide a quotation.
Get a quote today.
Visit IDCBand Custom Lanyards to view the available options.
Contact IDCBand
Website: https://idcband.co.za
Email: sales@idcband.co.za
Telephone: +27 11 675 5548
WhatsApp: +27 64 861 8552
