What is Burlap Fabric?

What is Burlap Fabric?

Burlap (known as Hessian in Europe and Australia) is a durable, coarse-woven cloth made from the skin of the jute plant or sisal fibers. It is celebrated for its breathability, eco-friendliness, and distinct rustic aesthetic.

What is Burlap Fabric

What is Burlap Made Of?

Most authentic burlap is made of 100% natural jute fibers. Jute is a vegetable fiber that is rapidly renewable and completely biodegradable, making burlap one of the most sustainable textiles on the market.

Jute vs. Burlap vs. Canvas: What’s the Difference?

While these terms are often used interchangeably, they represent different stages of production or entirely different materials.

• Jute: This is the raw fiber itself. When people refer to 'jute fabric,' they are usually talking about a finer, more tightly woven version of burlap.

• Burlap/Hessian: This is the coarse finished product. It has a lower thread count and a visible, open weave.

• Canvas: Unlike burlap, canvas is typically made from cotton or linen. It is much smoother, heavier, and lacks the 'hairy' texture and natural scent of jute.

Comparison Table

Understanding Burlap Specs: Weights & Weaves

When buying burlap by the yard or roll, you will see specifications that determine how 'thick' the fabric feels.

1. The Ounce (oz) System

Burlap is measured by weight per square yard.

• 7 oz (Lightweight): Best for tree wraps or basic craft liners.

• 10 oz (Standard): The go-to for upholstery, table runners, and sandbags.

• 12 oz+ (Heavy Duty): Used for industrial erosion control or heavy-duty storage sacks.

2. Tight Weave vs. Loose Weave

• Loose Weave: Ideal for gardening and plants because it allows maximum airflow and water drainage.

• Tight Weave (Sultana): A premium grade with a higher thread count. This is what you want for printing or home decor where you don't want the background to show through the holes.

Top Product Recommendations

If you are looking for high-quality burlap for your next project, consider these top-rated options:

The Burlapper 10oz Burlap Fabric is a standard professional-grade material. It is untreated, making it safe for both garden use and home crafts. It features a consistent weave that is much cleaner than industrial-grade alternatives.

For gardening and landscaping, a bulk option like Natural Burlap Landscape Fabric is more cost-effective. It is specifically designed for protecting plants and controlling soil erosion, offering excellent durability against the elements.

Rawhide Polyester/Linen Blend Upholstery Fabric by Top Fabric

Summary Recommendation

• Choose 10oz Burlapper for indoor decor or crafts where appearance matters.

• Choose Landscape Burlap Rolls for outdoor gardening or protecting shrubs during winter.