Winter is a time when creativity can really shine, especially when it comes to repurposing old materials. Burlap sacks, with their rustic charm and durability, offer an array of possibilities for those looking to add a touch of homemade warmth to their winter decor and practical household needs.
Whether you have leftover burlap from a summer project or have recently come across a stash, these versatile sacks can be transformed into beautiful, functional creations perfect for the colder months. Here are ten inventive ways to breathe new life into burlap sacks this winter.
1. Turn Burlap Sacks Into Rustic Winter Planters
Burlap sacks can serve as perfect planters for your winter greens and evergreens. Start by cutting the burlap to fit around your chosen pot or planter; a piece measuring about 18×18 inches typically works well for a medium-sized pot. Line the interior with a plastic sheet to prevent water leakage and fill it with soil. Plant winter-resistant plants like evergreens, holly, or winter pansies to brighten up your porch or garden. The burlap adds a cozy, rustic layer that complements the natural beauty of winter foliage.
2. Upcycle Sacks Into Cozy Burlap Pillow Covers
Transforming burlap sacks into pillow covers can add a warm, rustic touch to your living room or bedroom for the winter season. Measure your pillow inserts and cut the burlap sack into two pieces, each a half-inch larger than the pillow on all sides. Sew three sides together, leaving one side open to insert the pillow. You can add buttons or a zipper for closure, and consider stenciling festive designs or monograms on the burlap to personalize your pillows.
3. Make Reusable Gift Wrap and Santa Sacks
Burlap sacks make excellent eco-friendly gift wrap alternatives. Simply cut the burlap to fit your gift, leaving enough fabric to tie a bow at the top. For a festive touch, you can stencil holiday patterns or add a sprig of evergreen. For larger gifts, transform a whole burlap sack into a Santa sack. Sew a drawstring around the opening to easily secure gifts inside. These reusable wraps not only cut down on waste but also add a charming, rustic feel to your gift-giving.
4. Craft Farmhouse-Style Christmas Stockings
Create charming farmhouse-style Christmas stockings by cutting burlap sacks into the classic stocking shape. Use a template to ensure uniformity, and sew two pieces together, leaving the top open. Add a contrasting fabric, such as plaid or red felt, as a cuff at the top for an added festive touch. Hang them by the fireplace or on a mantel for a cozy, rustic holiday look.
5. Create Insulating Wraps for Outdoor Plants
Protect your outdoor plants from harsh winter frost by using burlap as an insulating wrap. Cut the burlap into strips wide enough to wrap around the plant base and tall enough to cover the entire plant. Secure the burlap with twine or garden ties. For extra insulation, line the inside of the burlap with straw or leaves. This method not only safeguards your plants but also adds a rustic aesthetic to your garden area.
6. Sew Charming Table Runners and Placemats
Add a rustic, cozy touch to your dining table with burlap table runners and placemats. Measure the length and width of your table, then cut the burlap to the desired size, allowing for a one-inch hem on all sides. Sew the edges for a clean finish, and consider embellishing the runner with lace or ribbon for a festive touch. For placemats, cut smaller rectangles, typically 12×18 inches, and finish the edges in the same manner.
7. DIY Burlap Wreaths and Door Decor
Craft a welcoming burlap wreath for your front door by wrapping a foam wreath form with strips of burlap, securing with hot glue as you go. Add embellishments like pinecones, berries, or ornaments to give it a wintery feel. You can also create smaller burlap bows or tassels to hang on door handles or as part of your wreath design, adding a cohesive rustic theme to your entryway decor.
8. Transform Sacks Into Firewood and Kindling Totes
Burlap sacks are sturdy enough to be repurposed as firewood and kindling totes. Cut the sack to the desired size, leaving enough length to fold over and sew handles from the excess burlap or a contrasting fabric. Reinforce the seams for added strength. These totes can be used to neatly store and carry firewood or kindling from your woodpile to your fireplace, making them both practical and stylish.
9. Stitch Simple Draft Stoppers for Doors and Windows
Keep the cold winter drafts at bay by making simple burlap draft stoppers. Measure the width of your door or window, then cut a piece of burlap to this length, adding a couple of inches for seam allowance. Sew into a tube, fill with dried beans or rice for weight, and sew the ends closed. Place them at the base of doors and windows to help insulate your home and keep it warm and cozy.
10. Use Burlap as Rustic Wall Art and Photo Backdrops
Burlap’s texture makes it an excellent medium for rustic wall art or backdrops for winter photo shoots. Stretch a piece of burlap over a canvas frame, securing it with a staple gun. You can paint or stencil seasonal designs directly onto the burlap, such as snowflakes or winter scenes. For a photo backdrop, hang a large piece of burlap from a stand or wall, and adorn it with twinkle lights or greenery for a festive, picturesque setting.
11. Line Pet Beds and Crates for Extra Winter Warmth
Add an extra layer of warmth to your pet’s bed or crate by lining it with burlap. Cut the burlap to fit the interior of the crate or bed, and layer it with a soft material like fleece or old blankets for comfort. The burlap helps to retain heat, keeping your furry friends cozy during the cold months.
12. Build Handy Storage Bins for Winter Gear
Organize your winter gear by creating storage bins from burlap sacks. Cut the sack to the desired height for your bin, and sew a sturdy base from leftover burlap or another durable fabric. Add handles for easy carrying, and use these bins to store hats, gloves, scarves, or even firewood. The rustic look of burlap adds a charming touch to your home organization.
