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Hessian/Burlap/Jute Fabric Guide
Whether you are a fashion enthusiast, a DIY lover, or simply curious about sustainable materials, this guide covers everything you need to know. From the origins and production process of hessian, burlap, and jute, to their various uses in fashion, home decor, and crafts, this blog provides valuable insights and tips.
What is Hessian Fabric?
Hessian is a plain weave fabric with a coarse texture, made from jute and vegetable fibres.
The History of Hessian Fabric:
Burlap originated in India. Owing to the numerous jute plants growing there, burlap was widely produced and was used only for making ropes in earlier times. In the 1790’s English traders then began to ship tons of jute to Britain.
Hessian takes its name from German soldiers who belonged to a state named Hesse, who wore uniforms made from burlap and were known as Hessians. Since then, hessian fabric has been called by this name.
Are Burlap and Hessian the same thing?
Burlap is the same natural fabric as hessian, but the term is more commonly used across America and Canada. In the UK and Europe, it is better known as Hessian.
How is Hessian made?
Jute is extracted from the bark of the white jute plant. It is a natural fibre with a golden hue, hence being called the Golden Fibre. Jute is an annual crop taking about 120 days to grow.
What is Hessian used for?
Hessian is often used to make sacks and to ship goods like coffee beans and tea. It is breathable and so resists condensation and associated spoilage of its contents. It is also durable enough to withstand rough handling in transit.
Hessian is commonly used to make sandbags. It is also perfect for a wide range of uses from home décor to craft projects and is very popular for wedding decorations at the moment.
Is Hessian Biodegradable?
One major advantage of hessian fabric is that it is made entirely from natural vegetable fibres, making it completely biodegradable. It is extremely useful in landscaping, agricultural uses and also very popular in the décor/craft industry for its eco-friendly properties.
Is Hessian sustainable?
Hessian is a sustainable fabric due to the easily grown plants, that need very little tending. You do not need to apply much effort for a large yield. The plants do not require much water and can possibly survive a drought.
Is Hessian washable?
In most cases, hessian requires specialist cleaning. However, hand wash may be used for small finished hessian pieces. Wash with cold water (warm water could shrink the textile). Use a gentle liquid detergent and soak for 5 minutes (no more).
Hessian must be thoroughly dried. Open weave Hessians need a more specialist clean to keep their shape.
Can Hessian be dyed?
Hessian can be dyed using cloth dye. It is best to do the dye mixing in an old bucket outside. Leave the fabric in the solution as per the dye instructions, but make sure to keep stirring to get an even colour. If you want a lighter colour, leave it in for less time.
Can Hessian be ironed?
It should be covered with a damp cloth and ironed on medium heat.
Can you paint on Hessian?
Hessian is a versatile fabric just like cotton and linen and will take paint well.
Can Hessian be used for punch needlework?
Although hessian is not highly recommended for punch needlework, it could be used for heavier projects such as rugs and runners.
Types of Hessian Fabric:
J14 & J22B FINE NATURAL HESSIAN
This is a 12oz hessian with a closer, more even weave. Generally used for home décor projects, table runners and making notice boards.
J31 HEAVY JUTE NATURAL
This is a 14oz jute, used for heavier-weight projects such as floor runners and rugs.
J12 & J26 JUTE HESSIAN NATURAL
This is a lighter 8.9oz hessian, with a more open weave. Used for bags, home décor, wedding decorations and craft projects.
J41 JUTE SCRIM NATURAL
A very open weave jute, widely used in plastering, moulding and sculpture.
J65 JUTE TARPAULIN NATURAL
This is a 15oz jute, used for making bags and sacks. It also can be used for craft projects that require a heavier fabric than Jute Hessian.
F26 HESSIAN NATURAL (NDFR)
This is an 8.9oz hessian that has a flame-retardant treatment. This is perfect for commercial projects, such as use on stage and for making public notice boards.
J15E BUCKRAM JUTE NATURAL
This is a 15oz stiffened jute, used for commercial pelmets and tie-backs.