History and Uses Of The Burlap Sack

Hessian cloth or burlap, as it is known in the United States is rough and course cloth typically formed from leftover vegetable fibers from the processing of the jute plant. The word "burlap" probably comes from a city in India that is known by the same name. A burlap sack is known for its durability, and strength. It is cheap to manufacture and the materials were readily available in India.

By the early 1800s, the product was being exported from India, where it was manufactured. The burlap took several forms, for export. Because the military personnel from the German city of Hesse used burlap from India in their uniforms, the cloth became known in most parts of the world as Hessian cloth.

The uniforms were not comfortable to wear. Hessian cloth can be stiff, scratchy and rough. It is quite durable though, making it a popular choice for soldiers' clothing. The clothing made from Hessian cloth is very breathable, so that it is appropriate for both hot weather and wet weather wear.

Up though the end of World War II, burlap was often used in parts of the military uniforms. For example, it was used as the major camouflage component on the pith style helmets. Ghillie suits used burlap as a base. This suit was also a camouflage garment. Long strips of jute or other plant fiber were inserted into a tent-like covering so that when still, the person could be hard to spot. Burlap base with plant fibers and leaves inserted could provide easy and quick disguise for soldiers in the jungles and brushy areas. For larger areas, a shrimp or fish net could be suspended between trees and covered with a layer of burlap into which were placed grasses, leaves and vines.

The use of burlap as a garment has not been popular amongst the general public, since the fiber that makes up the fabric is rough and scratchy. Amongst religious sects and denominations that practice mortification of the flesh, a burlap garment worn next to the skin will suffice. The references to a hair shirt may refer to a burlap shirt or covering. The garment is also known as a cilice. It is worn on Ash Wednesday by some individuals.

Burlap has long been used as a backing for floor coverings of all types. The first exports of the fabric from India may have been when it was used on the reverse side of carpets or woven rugs, in order to protect and preserve the more valuable wool yarns. Burlap has the advantage of being less slippery than some of the other fabrics that were available at the time. The yarns could be tied into the fibers, or the backing might be added later for additional durability of the carpet.

Today, construction sites might use burlap fabric to spread over wet concrete so that dries more evenly and smoothly. The burlap is kept wet so the cement dries more slowly. Because burlap is inexpensive and light weight, it can be reused on many different construction sites or left in place. A type of burlap cloth can be used to serve as a way to prevent erosion on a hillside where decorative plantings have been placed. Once the plants are firmly rooted, the burlap deteriorates.

Today, burlap is sewn into bags as an inexpensive way to hold and ship items such as grain, dry beans, coffee beans, potatoes and other products. Burlap sacks easily hold fifty or one hundred pounds of the bulk product and they can be loaded with mechanical equipment or by hand. The filled bags then are sewn shut with twine and are ready to be transported.

Some artists have made use of stretched burlap in the same way that canvas is used. As a paint base, the weave is somewhat looser than canvas, but the fabric is typically less expensive. The fibers of burlap absorb differently than the canvas cloth does, so it is a different look and finished product when complete.

Burlap occasionally makes an appearance in the fashion world. Because it is a "green" product, some designers have made use of burlap or jute to create handbags and shoes. Casual hats for women and men are occasionally available in the collections for summer wear.

Some home fashions have been created using burlap sacks. Outdoor furniture cushions, shade protection for outdoor areas even items such as picnic table coverings make use of the durable and inexpensive fiber. If you want a contemporary look for your window treatments, burlap fabric can be an excellent choice. It doesn't provide total privacy unless the fabric is lined with an additional layer of cloth.