Sewing with Burlap Fabric: Tips and Tricks for Rustic Creations
Burlap fabric, also known as hessian, is a coarse woven fabric made from jute or hemp fibers. It’s popular for its rustic, earthy appeal and is often used in home decor, crafts, and event decorations. However, burlap can be challenging to work with due to its rough texture and tendency to fray. Here are some essential tips and tricks to help you sew with burlap fabric successfully.
1. Choosing the Right Burlap
Burlap comes in different weights and qualities, so select the type that best suits your project:
Lightweight Burlap: Ideal for crafts, decorations, and smaller items where flexibility is needed.
Medium-weight Burlap: Suitable for home decor projects like pillows, table runners, and wall hangings.
Heavyweight Burlap: Best for larger items like curtains, rugs, and upholstery where durability is key.
2. Preparing Burlap Fabric
Burlap has a strong odor and can shed fibers, so it’s important to prepare it before sewing:
Pre-wash: Hand wash or machine wash the burlap on a gentle cycle. This can help soften the fabric and reduce shedding. Hang it to dry to prevent shrinkage.
Ironing: Use a steam iron on a medium setting to smooth out wrinkles. Ironing can also help set the fibers and reduce shedding.
3. Cutting Burlap Fabric
Burlap can be tricky to cut due to its loose weave:
Use Sharp Scissors: Ensure your scissors are sharp for clean, precise cuts.
Prevent Fraying: Apply a line of fray check or fabric glue along the cut edges to prevent fraying.
Cutting Tools: A rotary cutter and cutting mat can also be useful for straight lines and larger pieces.
4. Needles and Threads
Needles: Use a heavy-duty needle, such as a size 90/14 or 100/16, to handle the coarse fibers.
Thread: Polyester thread is strong and durable, making it suitable for sewing burlap. For a more rustic look, consider using a thicker thread like upholstery thread.
5. Presser Feet and Machine Settings
Adjusting your sewing machine settings can help manage the texture and thickness of burlap:
Presser Foot: A standard presser foot works fine, but a walking foot can help feed the fabric evenly.
Stitch Length: Use a longer stitch length (3.0 to 4.0 mm) to accommodate the open weave of the burlap.
Tension: Adjust the tension settings on your machine if needed, testing on a scrap piece first.
6. Sewing Tips
Use Clips, Not Pins: Binder clips or wonder clips hold your pieces together without leaving holes or getting lost in the weave.
Sew Slowly: Sew at a moderate speed to maintain control over the fabric and achieve even stitches.
Seam Allowance: Consider using a larger seam allowance (at least 1/2 inch) to accommodate the loose weave and ensure strong seams.
7. Handling Fraying and Shedding
Managing fraying and shedding is crucial for a neat finish:
Seam Finishing: Use a zigzag stitch or serger to finish the edges of the seams for added durability and to prevent fraying.
Hemming: Fold the edges over twice and sew a hem to enclose the raw edges and prevent fraying.
8. Pressing Burlap Fabric
Pressing burlap requires care due to its coarse texture:
Medium Heat Setting: Use a medium heat setting on your iron and avoid direct contact with the fabric for too long.
Pressing Cloth: Place a pressing cloth between the iron and the burlap to protect it from scorching.
Steam: Use steam to help smooth out wrinkles and set seams.
9. Creative Ideas for Burlap Projects
Home Decor: Pillows, table runners, curtains, and wall hangings.
Crafts: Banners, wreaths, and rustic gift wraps.
Event Decorations: Wedding decorations, table settings, and party favors.
Gardening: Plant wraps, garden sacks, and soil erosion control.
10. Practice and Patience
Working with burlap can be challenging but rewarding. Practice on small projects to get comfortable with the material before tackling more complex items. Take your time and enjoy the process.
11. Shop
Sewing with burlap fabric can add a rustic and charming touch to your projects. By following these tips and techniques, you can master the challenges of working with burlap and create beautiful, professional-looking items. Whether you're making home decor, crafts, or event decorations, burlap fabric offers a unique texture and appeal that enhances any project.