Crafting With Jute Cord
Jute fiber is used to make a strong, natural cord popular for general utility and crafting. Jute grows in Bangladesh, India, and areas with similar environments. The fiber is known for its coarse, durable, and biodegradable qualities, which make it eco-friendly.
Jute cord is commonly used for:
Crafts and DIY projects: Jute cord is popular in macramé, jewelry making, necklaces, bracelets, and decorative projects because it adds a rustic, earthy aesthetic.
Gardening: It's often used to tie plants or create trellises in gardening because it is strong yet biodegradable.
Packaging: The natural look and strength of the jute cord make it ideal for wrapping gifts or securing packages.
Household use: It can be used for hanging decor, securing items, or even as a natural alternative to synthetic rope.
Jute cord is generally light brown or beige, though it is often dyed, and it has a somewhat rough texture.
Popular jute crafting projects:
1. Jute Coasters
Materials Needed: Jute cord, hot glue gun, scissors.
Instructions: Start by creating a small loop with the jute cord. Secure it with glue, and continue coiling the cord tightly around itself. Add a dot of glue every few inches to hold it in place. Once you've reached the desired coaster size (usually around 4-5 inches in diameter), cut the cord and glue down the end.
2. Jute Plant Hanger
Materials Needed: Jute cord, scissors, metal ring (optional), and potted plant.
Instructions: Cut four long pieces of jute cord, fold them in half, and tie them onto a metal ring or simply knot them together at the top. Separate the strands into pairs and tie a knot in each pair a few inches down. Continue tying knots further down until you create a structure for your plant pot to rest in. Once done, secure the ends with a final knot.
3. Jute Wall Hanging
Materials Needed: Jute cord, wooden dowel, scissors, glue.
Instructions: Cut several strands of jute cord of equal length. Fold each piece in half and loop it onto a wooden dowel. Add as many strands as you need to reach your desired width. Create a macramé design by knotting the cords in rows. Trim the ends for a neat or tapered look, and glue as needed.
4. Jute Candle Holder
Materials Needed: Jute cord, glass jar, glue.
Instructions: Wrap the jute cord around the glass jar starting at the bottom. Secure the end with a dot of glue, and continue wrapping until you reach the top. You can glue it periodically to ensure it stays in place. You could also add decorative beads or shells for extra charm.
5. Jute Basket
Materials Needed: Jute cord, hot glue gun, scissors.
Instructions: Start coiling the jute cord as you did for the coasters, creating the basket base. Once it's the desired size, start building the walls by stacking the cord on top of the base, and securing it with glue as you go. Continue until the basket reaches your desired height.
6. Jute Keychain or Bracelet
Materials Needed: Jute cord, scissors, keychain ring (optional).
Instructions: Cut strands of jute and tie them onto a keychain ring. You can braid the strands or make a macramé design for a stylish accessory.
7. Jute Rope Shelf
Materials Needed: Jute cord, wooden planks, drill, and scissors.
Instructions: Drill holes in each corner of the wooden plank. Thread the jute cord through each hole, tying knots beneath to secure the plank. Leave enough length to create a hanging loop at the top. You can make multiple levels by repeating this process with more planks.
8. Jute Christmas Ornaments
Materials Needed: Jute cord, glue, cardboard, or foam shapes.
Instructions: Cut shapes like stars, trees, or hearts out of cardboard or foam. Wrap the jute cord around the shape, securing it with glue. Add beads, ribbons, or glitter for festive flair.
These jute cord projects are beginner-friendly and offer plenty of room for creativity. Experiment with different techniques like macramé, weaving, or braiding for unique textures and designs!