Ideas for Adding Texture to Walls Using Jute

Jute

• An Asian native, either Corchorus capsularis -- the white jute plant -- or Corchorus olitorius, is the source of jute textiles. Jute comes from the bark of these plants found in the tropical lowlands of India and Bangladesh. Often called "the golden fiber," jute is one of the toughest fibers available from a vegetative source. Because jute fiber is often used for insulation, using it as a wall covering also has practical applications by keeping the room warmer.

Wall Coverings

• Placing jute wall coverings on your walls is not like wallpapering, as the material is much thicker. Jute may be dyed any color or include patterns, but its natural texture remains. Since this thicker material allows for better soundproofing, jute wall coverings make a sensible choice for children's play areas or any part of the house where you don't want noise to travel. Burlap, another form of jute, is often used for wall coverings.

Wall Hangings

• If you like the idea of using jute to add textural interest to your walls but don't want to actually cover them with the material, consider wall hangings. These hangings, works of art made from jute, run the gamut in size and subject. The wall hangings depend on your personal taste, like any other form of artwork, and can be hung along with paintings, prints and photographs. The relative coarseness of jute hangings contrast with the flatness of painted walls.

Accents

• Your jute wall hangings or wall coverings can also accent other uses of jute in your home, including rugs and cushions. Using jute on the walls emphasizes the texture of other jute materials in the room. You may want to reupholster chairs or sofas in jute in a darker or lighter shade than the wall coverings, or a color highlighted in a wall hanging. Jute curtains in a complementary shade may also bring out the wall covering's texture.