Finding a material similar to burlap is usually the first step for anyone who loves that rustic, organic look but can't stand the mess that comes with the real thing. Let's be honest: while burlap looks amazing in photos and at farmhouse-style weddings, it's a bit of a nightmare to work with in real life. It sheds tiny fibers all over your clothes, it has a distinct (and sometimes funky) smell, and it's about as soft as a scouring pad.
If you're trying to find a substitute that keeps the aesthetic without the headache, you have a lot of great options. Whether you're upholstering a chair, making table runners, or crafting something for the garden, there's a fabric out there that mimics that coarse weave while being much friendlier to your hands and your vacuum cleaner.
Why Look for an Alternative Anyway?
Before we dive into the specific fabrics, it helps to know what we're trying to replicate—and what we're trying to avoid. Burlap is made from jute or hemp fibers. It's prized for its open weave and earthy tone. However, the downsides are pretty significant. It frays if you even look at it wrong, and it's notoriously difficult to wash. If you put real burlap in a washing machine, you might end up with a clogged filter and a tangled mess of strings.
That's why many crafters and decorators look for a material similar to burlap that offers better durability, a softer touch, or easier maintenance.
The Most Common Lookalikes
Jute Fabric
Wait, isn't burlap made of jute? Yes, it is. But "jute fabric" sold in craft stores is often processed differently than the rough "hessian" burlap you find at a hardware store or garden center. You can find jute that has been refined, bleached, or even softened.
High-quality jute has a tighter weave than standard burlap, which means it doesn't see-through as much. It still gives you that natural, tan color and that heavy-duty feel, but it's often "finished" so it doesn't shed quite as aggressively. If you want to stay as close to the original as possible, look for refined jute.
Linen with a Heavy Weave
If you want to go upscale, linen is your best friend. Specifically, look for something called "slubby linen" or "heavyweight linen." A "slub" is basically a lump or a thick spot in the fabric's yarn. In high-end fashion, slubs were once considered defects, but in the world of rustic decor, they are exactly what you want.
A heavy, natural-colored linen has a very similar texture to burlap but feels incredible against the skin. It's perfect for throw pillows or curtains. Plus, linen is machine washable and actually gets softer the more you wash it. It's more expensive than burlap, for sure, but the longevity and "breathability" make it a winner for home projects.
Faux Burlap (Polyester)
This is the secret weapon for wedding planners and event decorators. Faux burlap is usually 100% polyester, but it's woven to look exactly like the real thing. From a distance, you can't tell the difference.
The perks of polyester faux burlap are huge. It doesn't smell like a barn, it doesn't shed, and most importantly, it's washable. If someone spills red wine on a faux burlap table runner, you can just toss it in the laundry. It also doesn't fray nearly as much as the natural stuff, making it way easier to sew.
Durable and Industrial Alternatives
Hemp Canvas
Hemp is incredibly strong. In fact, it's one of the strongest natural fibers on the planet. A heavy-duty hemp canvas is a fantastic material similar to burlap if you need something that can take a beating.
Hemp has a slightly more "refined" look than burlap but retains that organic, slightly irregular texture. It's a bit stiff at first, but like linen, it breaks in beautifully over time. It's also naturally resistant to mold and mildew, which makes it a great choice for bags, aprons, or even outdoor cushion covers (as long as they are kept under a porch).
Cotton Duck or Canvas
You've probably seen cotton duck fabric and just called it "canvas." It's a heavy, plain-woven cotton fabric that is very sturdy. While it's much smoother than burlap, you can find it in "natural" or "unbleached" colors that share the same earthy palette.
If you like the weight of burlap but want a surface that is easy to paint on or stencil, cotton duck is the way to go. It's a favorite for tote bags and floor cloths because it can handle a lot of friction without falling apart.
Niche and Natural Fibers
Sisal
Sisal comes from the agave plant and is much stiffer than burlap. You'll usually see this in rugs or cat scratching posts. While you wouldn't want to make a shirt out of it, sisal is a great material similar to burlap for structural crafts. If you're wrapping a glass vase or creating a textured wall hanging, sisal gives you an even more rugged, coastal vibe than burlap does.
Raffia
Raffia comes from palm leaves and has a very distinct, shredded look. It's not a "fabric" in the traditional sense, but when woven together, it can mimic the appearance of a very coarse burlap. It's extremely lightweight and is often used in hat making or for gift wrapping. If your project is more about the "vibe" and less about structural integrity, raffia is a fun alternative to experiment with.
How to Choose the Right Substitute
Choosing the right material similar to burlap depends entirely on what you're trying to make. Here's a quick breakdown to help you decide:
- For Upholstery: Go with a heavy-duty linen or a polyester faux burlap. Your skin will thank you, and the fabric won't disintegrate when someone sits on it.
- For Table Runners: Faux burlap (polyester) is the king here. It stays flat, doesn't wrinkle as badly as real jute, and handles spills like a pro.
- For Gardening: Stick with the real stuff or a heavy jute. Since it's biodegradable, it's actually better for the earth if you're using it for root balls or weed barriers.
- For Curtains: A "slubby" cotton or linen blend is perfect. It lets light through in that beautiful, dappled way that burlap does, but it won't drop dust every time you pull the curtains shut.
Tips for Working with These Fabrics
No matter which material similar to burlap you choose, working with textured, loose-weave fabrics has its own set of rules.
First, serge or zig-zag your edges. Even the "faux" versions like to fray a bit. If you don't have a serger, a simple zig-zag stitch on your sewing machine will keep the edges from unraveling.
Second, if you're using a natural fiber like hemp or jute, pre-wash it if you ever plan on washing the finished item. These fibers shrink—a lot. It's better to let them do their shrinking before you've spent hours sewing them into a specific shape.
Lastly, don't be afraid to mix and match. Sometimes the best look comes from using a "real" burlap accent piece on top of a more comfortable, practical fabric like cotton canvas. You get the visual punch of the texture without having to deal with the discomfort.
Wrapping It Up
At the end of the day, the "best" material similar to burlap is the one that fits your lifestyle. If you're a purist who loves the smell of the outdoors and doesn't mind a little mess, refined jute is a great step up. If you're a busy parent who wants the farmhouse look without the "barnyard" cleanup, the polyester faux versions are a total lifesaver.
There's no shortage of ways to get that textured, warm, and inviting look. By swapping out traditional burlap for one of these alternatives, you can spend less time lint-rolling your sofa and more time enjoying the beautiful space you've created.