A 54 × 45cm piece of natural hessian — the same dimensions as a fat quarter of fabric, in plain open-weave jute. Hessian is one of those materials with an unusually wide range of applications: it works as a backing fabric for rag rugging and needle punching, as a base for embroidery and cross stitch with a rustic character, as wrapping and packaging material for gifts and planted pots, as a surface for painting and mixed media work, and as a general craft fabric for making small bags, bunting, decorations, and anything else where a natural, textured material suits the brief.
At 54 × 45cm there is a useful amount of fabric to work with — enough for a small project or to cut down into components for a larger one. The open weave is firm enough to hold its shape while remaining easy to cut with scissors without specialist tools.
- Natural hessian fabric
- Size: 54 × 45cm
- Open weave jute — firm, textured, biodegradable
- Natural unbleached colour
- Suitable for rag rugging, needle punching, embroidery, craft projects, wrapping, and mixed media
- Brand: Trimits | SKU: LA093
Frequently Asked Questions
What is hessian made from?
Hessian is woven from jute — a natural plant fibre grown primarily in Bangladesh and India. It is biodegradable, sustainable, and has been used for sacking, packaging, and craft applications for centuries. The natural colour varies slightly between pieces, as with all undyed natural fibres.
What can I use hessian for?
Rag rugging and proddy rug making, needle punching, cross stitch and embroidery on a rustic base, small bags and tote bag lining, gift wrapping and packaging, Christmas and seasonal decoration making, painted mixed media work, decoupage backing, plant pot wrapping, and general fabric craft. The open weave makes it particularly good for pulled thread techniques and needlework where the holes between fibres are part of the working method.
Can hessian be painted?
Yes — acrylic paint works well on hessian, soaking into the fibres to produce a textured painted surface. It is worth priming with a diluted PVA or gesso layer first if you want the paint to sit on the surface rather than soak through entirely.
Does hessian fray?
Yes — hessian frays readily when cut, which can be decorative or a nuisance depending on the application. For projects where you do not want fraying, apply a line of fabric glue or fray stop along cut edges, or turn and hem the edge. For rustic decorative applications, the frayed edge is often left intentionally.
Can it be washed?
Hessian is best spot-cleaned or hand-washed in cold water only. Machine washing will cause significant shrinkage and distort the weave. For most craft applications, washing is not required.
