I've been really interested in using burlap (also known as hessian) in home design for a while now. It is a great texture that adds a lot of visual interest without being in your face. Plus, it is sustainable because it's made from renewable plant fibers and can often be recycled!
But what inspired me to write this post about it was the picture that I found at Velvet and Linen, one of the home design blogs I enjoy. I've seen burlap used to upholster furniture and as throw pillows. I've seen people frame old coffee bags and use it as wall art. But to use it as wallpaper? Such a cool idea! (The post with the picture also had a picture showing burlap curtains!)
 |
| Here's another picture of burlap curtains! |
First of all, why is adding texture to a design so important. Well, there's a reason that designers consider texture to be at least as important as color when it comes to design. It is a subtle way off adding lots of visual interest and adjusting the feel of a room.
 |
| There is hardly any color in this room, but the texture of the fireplace really adds a lot to the design |
When it comes to how texture can adjust the atmosphere of a room, the simple rule is that the 'rougher' textures are more casual than the 'smoother' textures. This is not always the case, and often people mix textures to create a feel that is both dressy and comfortable.
 |
| This is a very dressy room, but it is also wellcoming because of the varying textures. |
For example: look at your dining room table vs. your kitchen table (or the eat at counter). Your dinning room table is probably a bit smoother than the counter or table in your kitchen. That is because the functions are different. A dinning room is supposed to be at least slightly more formal than the kitchen. It's where you host the special dinners. While the kitchen is where you grab a quick breakfast or have a casual family lunch.
Burlap has a sophisticated, natural look that can really help a formal looking room feel more comfortable, welcoming because of it's more casual, rougher texture.
I am using burlap to reupholster my couch because my living room needed a more natural but sophisticated feel. (I'll be sure to post a picture when it's all done!) Here are some other ideas of what you can do with burlap (including some great ways to be crafty if you are so inclined!)
 |
| Maybe a good project for the children |
Here is an example of the wall art using bags of cocoa beans like I mentioned before!
 |
| Burlap is a great way to add some industrial modern style to any space |
The texture and colors of burlap goes great with quite a few styles: sophisticated/natural, industrial/modern, shabby chic, urban country, and more.
 |
| Oh! Check out the wallpaper here: did they use papryus? Ugh, my head is now spinning with ideas! |
Another nice thing about burlap is that you can use it as little or as much as possible.
 |
| Toss some over an old tired table! |
And you don't necessarily have to be the crafty type either!
 |
| Now that takes patience/skill |
Or, if you want, you can make a big statement and create a conversation piece.
Plus, why note use the leftovers to jazz up gifts!
Here is a video with more ideas!
You can also get burlap by the yard at your local fabric store! (I got mine from Joanne's off of Rt. 140 in Westminster, MD.)
What kind of ideas are you rolling around in your head? Do you think that burlap can help add a little something to a space in your home? I'd love to hear your thoughts!
.jpg)
Posts
