Handling Burlap Tablecloth
A burlap tablecloth transcends all seasons. Touches of burlap at your bridal shower or wedding can play up anything from a sweet southern theme to that of vintage French romance. Whether your wedding is set to occur in springtime, summer, autumn, or winter, burlap is a truly versatile material. While burlap’s undeniable appeal is befitting any occasion, its texture does bring about certain difficulties. How then can you overcome these stumbling blocks to assure a seamless and rustic vintage wedding?
Problem: Conquering Burlap’s Natural Odor
Solution: There is no denying that strong musty odor that stems from fresh or stored burlap. It is enough to make your eyes water and perhaps even bring about a sneeze or two. However, eliminating this pungent smell is as easy as airing out the piece in question for a minimum 48 hours. Simply bring your burlap tablecloth out into the fresh outside air and Mother Nature will work her magic!
Problem: How to Tame a Wrinkled Burlap Tablecloth
Solution: Because of burlap’s rough, woven texture, taking an iron to smooth out creases simply will not do. To reduce the amount of ironing needed before your event, opt for layers instead. To achieve this effect, skip a full burlap tablecloth and chose a burlap table runner with a polyester tablecloth underneath. If your heart is set on a full tablecloth and you find yours wrinkled and creased, smooth your tablecloth flat and place weights at each corner for a 24 to 48 hour period.
Problem: The Horrible, No Good Case of Shedding Burlap
Solution: There is nothing quite as bad as frayed burlap pieces that cling to floors, other linens, and the chairs of your event venue. One might even argue these fine, rough hairs rival the annoyance of glitter. Unlike with glitter, taming burlap shedding is as simple as spraying the cloth’s edges with a no fray spray. This spray is readily available at any craft store.
Problem: The Alternative to Burlap’s Rough & Itchy Feeling
Solution: Worried your guests might remember the sensation of itchy, scratchy burlap linens over every other aspect of your wedding? If so, you might want to consider faux burlap instead. Our Faux Burlap Table Overlay Topper/Tablecloth 90″ Round – Natural Tan offers a fantastic solution! This tablecloth assures the same appearance of natural jute burlap, but it doesn’t shed and it’s soft to the touch. This burlap alternative is also machine washable, iron-friendly, and odorless, thus solving any of the above issues for a truly low maintenance burlap tablecloth.
Problem: Worried A Burlap Tablecloth or Table Runner Might Exceed Your Wedding Budget?

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2 comments
My burlap linen table runner feels like plastic. How can I soften it?
Very good article!
I have recently changed the focus of my business from Event Planning to Event Rentals. About 6 years ago, I planned and decorated an outdoor wedding using burlap for the first time. I did not think that I would have an opportunity to use the items again but am happy that the Burlap trends. The Faux Burlap, not to sure how I feel about it so far. Easier to manage then natural burlap however since the material is a polyester weave, it presents its own unique challenges! Steaming/Roller_Ironing, Folding, snags in the weave, are just a few. We are working thru them quickly because one of my Event Planners LOVES them and sells them as THE option for all of her Brides!