Unleashing Your Creative Touch: Mastering the Art of Sewing Burlap

Burlap fabric may often be associated with rustic outdoor décor and burlap sacks, but did you know that it can also be an excellent material for creating beautiful and unique crafts? From home decorations to fashion accessories, burlap offers a versatile and budget-friendly option for DIY projects. But with its coarse texture and tendency to fray, sewing burlap can seem like a daunting task. Fear not, as we delve into the world of burlap sewing and share some tips and tricks on how to master this fabric. So grab your needle and thread, because we’re about to answer the age-old question: How do you sew burlap?

An Introduction to Sewing with Burlap

Burlap, also known as hessian or jute, is a coarse and durable fabric that has been used for centuries in various applications. Originally made from the skin of the jute plant, burlap is now primarily produced from polyester, making it more versatile and affordable. Burlap’s unique texture and strength make it a popular material for a wide range of sewing projects, from home decor to fashion. In this article, we will discuss how to sew with burlap and share some tips for achieving professional-looking results.

The Benefits of Sewing with Burlap

There are many benefits to using burlap as your sewing fabric of choice. For starters, it is extremely durable and can withstand heavy use without fraying or tearing. This makes it ideal for projects that will receive a lot of wear and tear, such as tote bags or aprons. Burlap’s coarse texture also adds an interesting texture to your finished projects, giving them a unique look and feel.

Additionally, burlap is an environmentally-friendly option as it is made from natural fibers and is biodegradable. It also comes in many different colors and prints, making it a versatile fabric for all types of sewing projects.

Things to Consider Before Sewing with Burlap

While there are many benefits to sewing with burlap, there are also some things you should keep in mind before getting started on your project. Firstly, due to its coarse texture, burlap can be quite difficult to work with if you’re not used to it. It tends to fray easily, so you’ll need to take extra care when cutting and handling the fabric.

Another thing to consider is the smell of burlap. As a natural fiber, burlap has an earthy scent that may not be appealing to everyone. Some find the smell overwhelming, so it’s worth considering this before choosing burlap for your project. If you do find the smell too strong, airing out the fabric or using a scented fabric spray can help alleviate it.

Sewing Machine Preparation for Burlap

Before you start sewing with burlap, it’s important to make sure your sewing machine is properly prepared to handle this fabric. Due to its coarse texture, burlap can cause issues with tension and can easily catch in your machine’s feed dogs. To prevent this, be sure to use a heavy-duty needle specifically designed for heavier fabrics like denim or canvas.

You may also want to adjust the tension settings on your machine to avoid any puckering or pulling on the fabric. It’s a good idea to test sew on a scrap piece of burlap before starting your actual project to make any necessary adjustments and ensure smooth stitching.

Cutting and Sewing Techniques for Burlap

When cutting burlap, it’s important to keep in mind that it will fray from the edges if left untreated. To prevent fraying, you can either use a serger machine or apply a fray check product along the edges before sewing. Alternatively, you can leave a seam allowance of at least 1/4 inch and fold over twice to create a clean edge.

When sewing with burlap, be sure to use a longer stitch length than usual as this will prevent puckering and allow the fabric to move through smoothly without getting caught in the feed dogs. When joining pieces together, opt for hand-basting before stitching on the machine as this will help keep pieces aligned and reduce fraying while sewing.

Project Ideas for Sewing with Burlap

Now that you know how to work with burlap, here are some project ideas that will allow you to showcase its unique qualities:

– Rustic home decor such as burlap table runners, placemats, or curtains.
– Bags and totes for carrying groceries or running errands.
– Fashion accessories like scarves or headbands.
– Outdoor projects like garden flags or burlap planters.
– Upholstery for chairs or pillows.

The Bottom Line

Sewing with burlap may seem intimidating at first, but with the right preparation and techniques, you can create beautiful and durable projects. Remember to use a heavy-duty needle, adjust your machine’s settings, and take extra care when cutting and handling the fabric. With some practice, you’ll be able to incorporate this versatile and eco-friendly fabric into all sorts of sewing projects.

What is Burlap?

Burlap, also known as hessian or jute, is a type of fabric that is commonly used for various purposes. It originated from India and was originally made from jute fibers. Today, burlap can also be made from other fibers such as hemp and flax. Burlap is a coarse, loosely woven fabric with a rough texture and a beige or brown color.

The History of Burlap

The history of burlap can be traced back to the 19th century when jute was first brought to Europe from India. At that time, burlap was primarily used as a packaging material for agricultural products such as coffee, cotton, and vegetables. However, with the invention of sewing machines in the late 1800s, burlap started to gain popularity as a material for making bags and sacks for transportation.

During World War II, burlap became an essential material for military use due to its durability and affordability. It was used for making sandbags that were used to fortify trenches and protect soldiers in battlefields. After the war, burlap continued to be widely used in the agricultural sector as well as for making inexpensive home goods such as curtains and rugs.

Today, burlap has become a popular material among crafters and DIY enthusiasts who use it for creating various projects such as tote bags, decorations, and even clothing.

Benefits of Sewing with Burlap

There are many benefits to sewing with burlap that make it an attractive choice for crafters and sewers alike. One of the main advantages is its affordability. Because burlap is made from natural fibers, it is relatively inexpensive compared to other fabrics.

Another benefit of using burlap is its durability. Its coarse texture makes it resistant to tearing and fraying, making it a reliable choice for heavy-duty projects. It is also highly versatile and can be used for a variety of purposes, from home décor to fashion accessories.

Additionally, burlap is environmentally friendly as it is made from natural, biodegradable materials. This makes it an excellent choice for those who are conscious of their carbon footprint.

How to Sew Burlap

Sewing with burlap may seem intimidating at first due to its rough texture and loose weave. However, with the right techniques and tools, it can be a simple and enjoyable process.

Firstly, it is essential to choose the right type of burlap for your project. Burlap comes in different weights and weaves, so be sure to select one that is suitable for your specific project. The weight of burlap is measured in ounces per yard, with the most commonly used being 10 or 12 ounces.

Before starting your project, it is recommended to wash and dry the burlap fabric to remove any dust or debris. This will also help soften the fabric and make it easier to work with.

When sewing with burlap, it is important to use a heavy-duty needle such as a leather or denim needle. These needles have a sharp point and are designed to handle thick fabrics like burlap without breaking.

Due to its coarse texture, burlap can easily fray at the edges. To prevent this, use pinking shears or finish the edges with a zigzag stitch before sewing.

When stitching on burlap, use a longer stitch length than you would normally use on other fabrics. This will help avoid puckering and bunching which can occur due to the loose weave of burlap.

It is also recommended to use an iron-on interfacing on the back of the fabric before sewing. This will provide stability and prevent the fabric from stretching while being sewn.

Project Ideas with Burlap

As mentioned earlier, burlap is a highly versatile fabric that can be used for various projects. Here are a few ideas to inspire your next burlap sewing project:

– Tote bags: Burlap totes are not only stylish but also durable and eco-friendly. They can be embellished with ribbons, lace, or other fabrics to add a personal touch.
– Table runners: Add a rustic touch to your dining table by sewing a burlap table runner. It can be decorated with stencils, stamps, or even hand-painted designs.
– Pillows: Use burlap fabric to create unique and cozy throw pillows for your home. Add buttons, bows or other embellishments to personalize them.
– Christmas stockings: Get creative this holiday season by using burlap to sew festive Christmas stockings for the whole family.
– Poufs or ottomans: Make your own poufs or ottomans using burlap and filling them with bean bag beans or old clothes.

The possibilities are endless when it comes to sewing with burlap. Let your imagination run wild and create something truly unique and special.

Tips for Working with Burlap

1. Can I use a regular sewing machine to sew burlap?
Yes, it is possible to use a regular sewing machine to sew burlap. However, it is recommended to use a heavy-duty needle and thread to prevent any breakage or damage to the fabric.

2. What type of needle should I use when sewing burlap?
It is best to use a size 14 or 16 needle that is specially designed for heavy fabrics like burlap. These needles have a larger eye and are stronger, making it easier to sew through the coarse texture of burlap.

3. How do I prevent burlap from fraying when sewing?
To prevent fraying, you can either unravel the edges by hand or apply a liquid fray stop on the cut edges before sewing. You can also use pinking shears to trim the edges in a zigzag pattern, which will help prevent fraying.

4. Do I need to prewash burlap before sewing?
It is not necessary to prewash burlap before sewing unless you want to preshrink the fabric. Keep in mind that washing and drying burlap can change its texture and appearance, so it’s best to do a test swatch first before washing the entire fabric.

5. How do I sew corners on burlap without bunching or puckering?
When sewing corners, make sure to carefully pivot at the corner by lifting the presser foot and turning the fabric instead of trying to stitch over it in one continuous motion. This will help avoid bunching or puckering on your corners.

6. Can I use pins when sewing burlap?
Yes, you can use pins when sewing burlap, but be aware that they may leave permanent holes in the fabric due to its coarse texture. Instead, you can use clips or fabric adhesive to hold the fabric in place while sewing without damaging the burlap.

In conclusion, sewing burlap is a simple yet versatile skill that can be beneficial for both practical and creative purposes. The key to successfully sewing burlap lies in understanding the unique qualities of this textured fabric and using the right tools and techniques.

Burlap’s rustic appearance and durability make it a popular choice for various projects such as home decor, crafts, and even fashion. By following the steps outlined in this guide, beginners can confidently start sewing projects with burlap and achieve professional-looking results.

From selecting the appropriate type of burlap to choosing suitable needles and thread, every step in the sewing process is crucial in achieving a successful outcome. Taking proper precautions, such as prewashing the fabric or using an interfacing, will prevent any potential issues and ensure that the finished product is long-lasting.

Moreover, learning how to sew burlap also opens doors to endless possibilities for creativity. With different techniques like applique or embroidery, one can easily personalize their burlap projects according to their own unique style.

In addition to being budget-friendly and widely available, sewing with burlap also promotes sustainability by repurposing old sacks or coffee bags into new items. This eco-friendly aspect adds value not only to the finished product but also to our environment.

Author Profile

Rebecca Nolen

My name is Rebecca, though most people simply call me Becca. I design original cross stitch patterns inspired by vintage French style and timeless garden blooms. Peonies, with their soft layers and romantic charm, are my constant muse.

I hope you find a warm, inviting space to enjoy stitching my patterns. Brew your favorite coffee, settle in, and create a heartfelt piece of hand-embroidered art. Let your home reflect its own personality and soul with stitches that speak of comfort and grace.

My goal is to share beautiful patterns that inspire peaceful, mindful stitching. My hope is that you discover the quiet joy of hand-embroidery. My work has been featured across creative communities and in Stitch & Story Journal and The Artisan’s Review. Cross stitch remains my truest source of joy.

Since 2024, I’ve embarked on an exciting chapter—writing an informative blog dedicated to the “Embroidery and Cross-Stitch” niche. This blog is an extension of my love for the craft, offering detailed articles and personal responses to reader questions on all things stitching.

It covers a wide range of topics, from beginner-friendly tips and original pattern creation to historical insights and the therapeutic benefits of needlework. My goal is to build a space where stitchers of all levels can learn, share, and grow together, finding their own peace and pleasure in cross stitch just as I did.

To all my customers and readers who have supported Sew French, thank you. Your kind words, photos of finished creations, and steady encouragement are the threads that keep me creating. Let’s keep stitching a world of beauty and serenity, one pattern at a time.