Burlap curtains are a popular, affordable way to give your windows a designer look. And there are a variety of burlap window treatment options, from curtains to valances, to choose from.

Curtains made from burlap have a distinctive, rustic look. The open weave of the fabric filters light beautifully, and the fabric, while inexpensive, has a rich texture that can be dressed up or down.

In addition to being able to go from formal to informal, burlap curtain panels can also span styles. We love them puddled on a the floor of a traditional bedroom with pretty grosgrain ribbon tiebacks, or as flirty, gathered valances on country kitchen windows.

Perfect for Kitchens

Speaking of kitchen windows, burlap kitchen curtains are a must if you want window coverings that stand up to high-traffic areas. Woven from jute, hemp or other fibers, they were used to make rope, nets and other items like grain sacks, which were regularly exposed to rough use. This history is part of burlap’s charm.

Another reason people love burlap is that it’s often recycled or upcycled from feedbags, grain bags or coffee sacks. Using this fabric, complete with logos and other graphics, shows not only a sense of style but of caring for the environment.

Making The Most of This Tough-But-Loveable Fabric

Burlap curtains pair well with simple rods and headings – for example, gathering them along a rod pocket softens their rough-and-ready appearance. Using pinch pleats and lace dresses them up and gives them a shabby chic look.

While they’re typically used in traditional settings, with grommets and a sleek curtain rod, they can give modern spaces rustic flair.  

Like French feedbags and grain sacks, burlap curtain panels capture the heart of shabby chic, rustic-modern or French farmhouse styles. They also give a room an appealing vintage vibe.

Burlap curtains are easy to personalize by stenciling a pattern on them, or by adding trim to the sides or bottom. Pom-pom trim is especially cute on burlap valances.

Burlap Valances

Burlap valances are another great way to bring this trend home. The easy-going fabric suits swags and scallops and they’re especially pretty when dressed up with colorful jute trim.

Hang valances from a simple rod or get fancier by suspending them in swags from decorative hooks. Then watch the light filter through these pretty, practical window treatments.

If you want the look of burlap but need room-darkening curtains, look for lined panels. The open-weave fabric gives the rustic quality burlap is known for, but reduces the light that filters in, making this a good option for bedrooms, media rooms and nurseries.

If your goal is to add warmth and texture to your decor without breaking the bank, consider burlap. This versatile fabric looks beautiful as drapes and valances and will add rustic style to any room.