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Burlap is one of the most popular materials for eco-friendly projects, ranging from burlap sacks and gunny sacks to home décor, rugs, and table runners. Its woven fabric, durability, and rustic look make it a favorite choice for both agricultural products and creative diy projects.
The jute plant is the main source of burlap fabric, making it one of the most sustainable natural fibers in the world. In fact, jute is the second most important vegetable fibre in the world. Unlike other fabrics, burlap material also absorbs carbon dioxide during its growth, helping balance the environment.
In this article, we will explore what burlap is and why it is considered an eco-friendly material. Let’s get started!
What Is Burlap?
Burlap is a coarse cloth made from the strong jute plant. It is a woven fabric with an open weave and coarse texture. In many countries, burlap is called hessian fabric, while in parts of Asia, it is also known as gunny.
Traditionally, burlap sacks and hessian jute bags were used to store and transport agricultural products like coffee beans, root balls, and young plants. Today, burlap made from jute fibers is still used in agriculture, but it is also widely used in home decor, table runners, rugs, curtains, gift bags, and DIY projects.
Unlike other fabrics such as cotton or synthetic materials, burlap material is biodegradable and releases less carbon dioxide during its production.
People now use burlap products for interior design, table settings, outdoor projects, and even eco-friendly clothing. Its coarse material may feel rough on sensitive skin, but its rustic charm makes it a popular material for modern decor and sustainable living.
What Is Burlap Made Of?
Burlap is made from the strong jute plant. The stalks of the jute plant provide long jute fibers, which are spun into yarn and woven into burlap fabric. These natural fibers give burlap its coarse texture, breathable fabric, and durable quality.
Most burlap cloth comes from jute grown in India and Bangladesh, which together produce the largest share of the world’s burlap products. Sometimes, burlap is mixed with hemp, flax, or other fabrics to make it stronger or to change its natural texture.
Burlap made from jute fibers is biodegradable, compostable, and fully eco-friendly. It returns to the soil without harming the environment and helps reduce carbon dioxide. This makes burlap an environmentally friendly choice compared to synthetic fabrics.
What Is Jute Fabric (And How It’s Processed)?
Jute fabric comes from the stalks of the jute plant. The strong jute fibers are found inside the stalk and must be separated before they can be used. This process is called retting, where the stalks are soaked in water until the fibers loosen. Once separated, the fibers are washed, dried, and prepared for spinning.
After drying, the jute fibers are spun into yarn. This yarn is then woven into burlap fabric. Its coarse material makes burlap products tough yet biodegradable, while the natural texture adds charm to home decor, rugs, curtains, and table runners. Burlap made from jute stalks is not only practical for outdoor projects and DIY projects but also valued as an environmentally friendly fabric among other fabrics.
Characteristics of Burlap Fabric
Below are the main characteristics of burlap material:
| Property | Description |
| Texture | Rough, coarse cloth with an open weave; breathable fabric, but not ideal for sensitive skin |
| Strength | High tensile strength; holds heavy loads like coffee beans and agricultural products |
| Eco-friendly | Made from jute fibers; 100% biodegradable, compostable, and absorbs carbon dioxide |
| Color | Natural tan/light brown; burlap material can be dyed for décor or diy projects |
| Cost | One of the most affordable natural materials compared to cotton or other fabrics |
Common Uses of Burlap Today
Agriculture
Farmers use burlap sacks, hessian jute bags, and gunny sacks to store and transport coffee beans, grains, and other agricultural products. Burlap cloth is also used to wrap tree root balls and protect young plants in extreme weather.
Home Décor
Burlap-made items add rustic charm to weddings and table settings. Table runners, curtains, rugs, and other burlap material pieces bring natural texture to interior design and outdoor projects.
Retail Packaging
Burlap bags, drawstring sacks, and gift bags are popular for eco-friendly packaging. The breathable fabric keeps products safe while giving them a natural look.
DIY & Crafts
Burlap fabric is a favorite for diy projects like tote bags. Its coarse cloth is easy to convert the perfect burlap products for decor and crafts.
Fashion & Upcycled Products
Designers now use burlap fabric and jute fibers to make handbags, shoes, and accessories. Because burlap is durable and environmentally friendly, it has become a popular material for upcycled and sustainable fashion.
Burlap is versatile and cost-effective, making it useful across many industries. Whether used in garden projects, clothing, or rustic décor, burlap material proves why this natural fiber remains such a valuable and eco-friendly choice.
Is Burlap the Same as Jute?
Many people confuse burlap with jute, but they are not the same. Jute is the raw natural fiber that comes from the stalks of the jute plant. These jute fibers are spun into yarn and then woven into different fabrics, including jute fabric, hessian fabric, and burlap cloth.
Burlap, on the other hand, is a woven fabric made from jute fibers. In simple terms, jute is the plant, and burlap is the product. So, when someone asks ‘What is burlap?’, the answer is: burlap is a type of woven fabric made from jute, while jute itself is the natural fiber that makes burlap possible.
B2B Material Sourcing & Consumer Questions
What’s the difference between burlap and canvas?
Burlap is a coarse cloth made from jute fibers, with an open weave and natural texture. Canvas is usually made from cotton or linen, with a tighter weave and smoother surface.
Can burlap bags be washed and reused?
Yes, burlap bags can be reused many times. For light dirt, shake or brush it off. If needed, hand-wash gently in cold water and air-dry. Machine washing is not recommended because the burlap material can lose shape.
Is jute always organic?
Jute is a natural bast fiber grown mainly in India and Bangladesh. It needs little fertilizer or pesticide, making it close to organic. However, unless certified, not all jute fabric is labeled as “organic.”
Is burlap safe for food contact or agriculture?
Yes, burlap sacks and hessian jute bags are often used for coffee beans, potatoes, and root balls. For direct food contact, untreated burlap cloth is preferred because it does not contain dyes or chemicals.
How is burlap different from synthetic alternatives?
Burlap products are biodegradable, compostable, and environmentally friendly. Synthetic fabrics are more resistant to moisture and pests, but are not breathable and not eco-friendly. Burlap made from jute stalks is the better choice for businesses seeking sustainable, natural materials.
Conclusion: Why Burlap Is a Smart Sustainable Choice
Burlap fabric is one of the most practical and eco friendly materials available today. Made from natural jute fibers, it is durable, breathable, and cost-effective. Its coarse texture and open weave make burlap products ideal for packaging, agriculture, home décor, DIY projects, and event styling.
Businesses and consumers alike value burlap material for its natural texture, renewable plant sources, and zero-waste benefits. Choosing burlap means choosing sustainable production and eco conscious sourcing over synthetic alternatives.
Get a Free Quote for Custom Burlap Packaging or Jute Tote Bags
Looking to use burlap for your product packaging, event, or brand? At Itendee.com., we supply custom-printed jute tote bags, drawstring pouches, and eco friendly burlap products in various sizes and GSM options. Our burlap made solutions combine natural fibers with durability and style.
Contact our team today to get started with sustainable burlap packaging for your business.
