How to Keep Burlap From Unraveling
- 1). Set the sewing machine to a wide zigzag stitch or a long straight stitch. Thread the sewing machine with a thread color that matches the burlap fabric. Stitch along the edges of the burlap fabric to prevent it from unraveling. If you use a zigzag stitch, make the edges of the stitch fall right along the edge of the fabric. If you use a straight stitch, sew the stitches about 1/2 inch away from the fabric edge.
- 2). Fold under the edge of the burlap fabric 1/2 inch and then fold under the folded edge of the fabric another 1/2 inch. Pin the folds to hold them secure. Stitch along the folded edge of the burlap with the sewing machine to secure the hemmed edge in place. Remove the pins.
- 3). Apply a generous amount of seam sealant along the raw edges of the burlap. Coat the entire outer 1/2 inch around the outer edge of the burlap with seam sealant. This liquid product will bind the loose edges of the burlap and minimize fraying. Allow the seam sealant to dry and then proceed with the project.
- 4). Place masking tape along the edges of the burlap fabric. Align the tape along the top outer edge of the burlap and fold it over to the backside of the burlap to enclose the entire edge of the fabric with tape. Press the tape down firmly so it adheres to the burlap fabric.
- 5). Position the strip of fabric along the edges of the burlap to bind the edges. Wrap the fabric strip so half of it sits on the top edge of the burlap and the other half sits on the bottom edge of the burlap, enclosing the burlap edge with the fabric strip. Stitch around the edge of the burlap, catching both edges of the fabric strip in the stitches to secure the binding to the burlap.
