10 Uses of Jute Fabric in Fashion and Home Textiles

Jute started as the cloth for sacks and rope. In the last few decades it has moved into wardrobes and homes. Here are the 10 main uses of jute fabric today, and which kind of jute suits each one. For the types of jute, see Jute Fabric: The Complete Guide.

1. Jute sarees

The biggest fashion use. Jute-silk for drape and a daytime handloom look; jute-cotton for a lighter, washable everyday saree; jute-tussar for special occasions. Most are woven in the handloom villages of West Bengal. More on jute silk.

2. Jute kurtis, kurtas and shirts

Made from jute-cotton, because it can be washed. The texture is the style, so simple cuts look best. Popular for office wear and for men's festive kurtas in natural gold.

3. Jute jackets, kotis and waistcoats

Jute-linen and heavier jute-cotton hold a tailored shape. A jute koti over a plain kurta or a plain choli adds texture without weight.

4. Jute dupattas and stoles

Jute-silk and jute-cotton take block printing and hand painting well. A printed jute dupatta over a plain chaniya or kurta is a light way into a festive look.

5. Jute bags

Totes, grocery bags, gift bags, clutches and laptop sleeves. Plain hessian for the classic tote; laminated jute when the bag must carry wet or heavy things; jute-cotton with embroidery or print for fashion bags. This is where most people first meet jute.

6. Jute footwear

The rope soles of espadrilles are braided jute, and jute-cotton is used on top of sandals and slip-ons. Cool and light, but not for rain.

7. Jute rugs, mats and dhurries

Braided or woven jute mats are one of the oldest home uses: they last long, feel warm underfoot and suit every room. Not for bathrooms or anywhere that stays damp.

8. Jute curtains, blinds and upholstery

Loosely woven jute lets soft light through and hangs heavily, so it makes good curtains and roll-up blinds. Heavier jute-cotton covers chairs and sofas, and hessian is used underneath.

9. Jute cushion covers, table linen and wall hangings

Jute-cotton for anything you wash; hessian for table runners, placemats and wall hangings. Embroidery, print and appliqué all look good on its matte surface.

10. Jute packaging, rope and geotextiles

Still the biggest use by amount. Sacks for grain, sugar, coffee and cocoa; twine and rope; carpet backing; and geotextiles, an open jute mesh laid on slopes and riverbanks to hold soil until plants grow, then rot away.

Which jute for which use

• Worn on skin: jute-cotton or jute-silk.
• Washed often: jute-cotton.
• Needs structure: jute-linen or heavy jute-cotton.
• Carries weight: hessian or laminated jute.
• Floors: jute matting.
• Industrial use: sacking cloth and hessian.