Looking for extremely inexpensive but durable material for packaging and other projects? Consider a timeless favorite, burlap. Burlap is a fabric woven from jute, hemp, or other vegetable fiber, with a dense, coarse texture. This versatile fabric has also been referred to as sack cloth or Hessian cloth.

Burlap has been used as packaging material for centuries. Grain bags and sacks for other bulky items have been made from burlap, often sporting painted or printed labels for easy identification. Burlap has also been used to strengthen floor coverings like lineoleum and capret, as well as for wall decorations and coverings.

Burlap has gained popularity with home decorators as the country look has gained momentum. Although the fabric is coarse and rough, its texture lends itself to decorating items like lampshades, tapestries and wall coverings. Throw rugs, tapestries and pillows are also great when made from burlap. Since it holds simple paint designs and printing well, it can be printed with many logos and colors. Many have collected antique burlap items with interesting printing or advertising designs for display purposes. Some of the most commonly recognizable burlap products are sandbags and military equipment covers and sandbags.

Burlap can be a versatile and cost efficient material to work with. Despite its coarseness, it is durable and strong. Burlap is sold by the yard in sewing stores, as bags or rolls by manufacturers. Manufacturers often sell burlap in large bales, often containing up to 2000 yards. Burlap is also available with a special coating to prevent mold, mildew and rot.

If your requirements include low cost and high durability, consider burlap. Used for centuries, burlap is still going strong!