Jute is often called burlap because of regional naming differences, not because it is a different material.
Here’s a clear explanation:
- Jute is the natural plant fibre obtained from jute plants (Corchorus species).
- When jute fibre is spun and woven into a coarse fabric, that fabric is commonly called burlap in North America.
- In the UK, Australia, and many Commonwealth countries, the same woven jute fabric is called hessian.
Why the name “burlap”?
- The word “burlap” is believed to come from “borel” (a coarse medieval cloth) combined with “lap”, referring to a rough fabric.
- Over time, the term became associated specifically with coarse jute cloth used for sacks, bags, and wrapping.
Summary:
- North America: Burlap
- Australia / UK: Hessian
- Material name worldwide: Jute
So, jute is called burlap simply because of regional terminology, not because it’s a different product.
Axon
www.axoncorporation.com.au