A method of coating low density polyethylene (LDPE) and linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE), or combinations of the two, is disclosed. The method includes treating the polyethylene with a coating and then digitally printing the coated polyethylene substrate. The coated substrate may then be over-coated to protect the printing and the substrate may be formed as desired. The coated substrate may also be coated with a clear thin protective coating and heat-sealed on three sides to form a small tote bag.