Burlap is a simple, unassuming fabric that has taken the home decor world by storm. As many crafters and home decor enthusiasts are discovering, there are many things you can do with a plain swatch of burlap. Ideas for projects with burlap are plentiful because of two things. The first is that this fabric woven with plant fibers is cheap, anywhere from fifty cents to five dollars per yard at most fabric stores. The second reason is that unlike many other fabrics, burlap projects can be done without sewing. This makes it appealing to those who are otherwise intimidated by fabric projects and feel inclined to run when they hear the phrase “thread the bobbin.” Burlap ideas are abundant if you use your imagination, but here are a few simple do it yourself projects to start you on your burlap appreciation tour.
The first is an obvious choice for fabric, curtains. Burlap can be purchased in any color, which makes it easy to complement any room decor. It is low maintenance, so it is a good choice for a child’s room, or half curtains in a bathroom. Simply purchase the correct amount to cover the window you are doing. Install a rod, if you haven’t already. Now the fun part! Instead of sewing a hem like a traditional curtain, burlap can be “frayed.” Just pull a loose thread from the outside edge, and continue pulling until the whole side has an even, frayed edge. You can fray all the edges, or just the long ones, whichever looks best on the window you are covering. Hang the curtains by sliding curtain clips on the rod, and clipping them into the burlap. If you want to get fancy, you can add trim, such as pom-poms, with a hot glue gun.

Rustic Burlap Curtains
Another simple burlap idea is a table runner. If you have a long, casual dining or kitchen table, burlap adds some whimsy and color. Just cut the burlap with fabric scissors to the size you want, fray the edges, add any desired trim, and there you have it. Most stains rub off burlap with a cloth and ice cold water, and because it is so cheap, it is no big loss if you have a major food spill that ruins it. So go for it! A table runner in the colors of every major holiday is a festive and thrifty way to liven up your eating space.
If you are not in need of curtains or table runners, surely you can benefit from some dry erase memo boards. This is yet another crafty burlap idea to liven up a counter or desk top, and this project is useful as well. Simply frame any color burlap in a picture frame with a glass overlay. Now you can write messages or make lists on the front of the glass in the frame, and the burlap provides a neutral background with some texture to it. Make just one, or a whole display of them. You really can’t go wrong with this, and anyone can do it.
These are just a few burlap ideas to add a touch of color, texture, and whimsy to any room in your home. Let your imagination run wild, and there are no limits to what you can do with this simple, inexpensive fabric.
Seeing this post brought back memories of high school where I made a tote bag from Burlap. I had to revisit my teen years, so I had to pick up some burlap on my next trip to the Fabric store and make another one. It turned out wonderfully!
I’m less fond of burlap because of the irritating mini-fibers that it sheds. I generally advise people to avoid it near infants and children, those with sensitive skin and around food.
Using it in a child’s room as curtains may work, but this is one more instance when the standard recommendation to wash the fabric before using should be diligently observed.
My other problem with burlap is that it is has to be corrected because the weave is often wracked off of square. It’s a good idea when purchasing to insist that if the weave is skewed, the cutter pull a thread both on the edge and on the measure so cut so you wind up with a true rectangle.
I’ve bought some burlap about a month ago, I’m wanting to try embroidery on it and see how it come out. Love your ideas, thanks
HI Cynthia, I think it will be marvelous! The use of embroidery on burlap somehow reminds me of a plant that flowers in the desert. I would love to see what you come up with.
I machine embroidered on the tote bag I made – worked out great!
I think burlap is awesome. But it’s one fabric I forget about. Thanks for reminding me.
Never thought burlap would be so versatile, thank you for the great ideas
Just may get me sewing again after a looong hiatus