Burlap Fabric

Burlap has been used around the world to store and transport goods for hundreds of years. When you initially think of burlap, you probably think of a burlap sack. The fabric was originally used to transport agricultural products, but today that has changed. Now, it is a fashionable fabric to use in upholstery and decoration.

The most common type of burlap fabric is jute burlap. This is the traditional form of burlap. It has a coarse texture and is natural and undyed. Because it comes in its natural form, this is a very inexpensive fabric. But it’s natural appearance makes it a great choice for rustic decorations. Consider using jute burlap to cover outdoor seating, use as a table runner, or create placemats. Jute burlap is easy to care for and maintain. If it gets wrinkled, simply mist with water then iron on both sides.

The next most popular kind of fabric is hemp fabric, another all natural burlap fabric. This fabric can be used for environmentally friendly clothing, but it also makes a great choice for pillows of sofa cushions. As a general rule with hemp fabrics, the finer weave you can get, the better. These weaves will be the least itchy and irritating for your skin.

Another burlap fabric, commonly found in Europe, is made from flax fibers. Flax, like hemp, is an all natural source of fabric. You may know flax by its more common name, linen. Flax grain sacking can work very well for lamp shades, pillows, or even as curtains. Make sure you realize that burlap can fade quickly, however, if you do choose to use it as a curtain material.

The strongest type of burlap fabric is canvas weave burlap. This is the burlap used most by upholsterers on home projects and home decorating. This fabric has a looser weave, is a bit coarser to the touch, and can be used on interior or exterior pieces.

If you’re thinking that burlap fabric sounds like the right choice for your project, but you want a fabric in a different color, have no fear. Today, burlap fabrics come in a range of colors. Most commonly available burlap comes in solid colors such as blue, black, red, or green, but there are striped varieties available as well. You’re only limited by your imagination.

Before you begin working with burlap, make sure you are aware of the downsides to this fabric choice. Because burlap is weaved loosely, it can stretch over time. Also, burlap will fade more quickly than other fabrics in direct sunlight. But as long as you keep this in mind, burlap is a wonderful fabric to work with.

Burlap fabric can provide your project with a sophisticated yet rustic appeal without breaking the bank. Try out some burlap fabric on your next interior furniture piece and see how much you love the result.