Burlap is so popular right now for all different kinds of crafts and projects, but it’s somewhat of a tricky material to work with. Besides the fact that burlap is messy and leaves little fibers all over your clothes, it’s important to learn how to prevent burlap from unravel.
You can get burlap from most fabric stores like JoAnns Fabrics. You can also order it online if you need a lot and would like to buy it in bulk.
#1 Cut It Correctly
If you just cut it with scissors in what you think is a straight line, even a slight cut to the right or left of one of the threads, can cause a myriad of other threads to just fall out or unravel from the piece.
Here is the trick to cutting burlap with scissors. Choose a thread line that you want to be your edge. Pull on that thread until you have pulled it all the way out, and you have a long strip where the thread once was. You may need to use your scissors a few times to get the thread out all the way.
See how I have removed one of the threads of burlap, so there is an empty space to the right of the two far left threads?
#2: Modge Podge it
Applying a thin coat of Modge Podge to the edge of your burlap will create a clear border. Your burlap will have a slightly stiff feel on the edge, but no one will see the
#3 Stitch it
If you have a sewing machine, this is the easiest method for a durable edge. Stitch your burlap like this one, about one inch from the edge. You can use a contrasting thread, or even add a ribbon to the edge. For a more transparent option, sew with a like color of thread.
Make sure to clean your machine after this project, burlap is known to be messy, and those fibers can get into your machine very quickly.
No you can cut right in that empty space and your burlap will not unravel! If you need a lot of burlap fabric buy it in bulk, 10 yards for $30 on Amazon here or for ribbon 12″ Burlap Roll of 50 Yards for $35. Good luck on your next burlap project, I hope it turns out beautiful.
#4 Binding Tape
Binding tape is exactly what it sounds like. It is a tape that binds things together. This is by far the fastest method. Purchase binding tape that has a similar color, and apply it to the back of your burlap, about one inch from the edge. Problem solved.
If you haven’t purchased your burlap, and you want to use this method, you can buy burlap with binding tape already on it! Check it out at your craft store or of course, Amazon!
#5 Fray Check
Fray check is kind of like modge podge. It goes on clear and is applied on the edge of the burlap. It dried clear and requires little drying time.
I hope these tips help you and good luck on your burlap project!
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