Hemp, Linen & Antique Grain Sacks

What is our obsession (or is just me?) with antique grain sacks. We are starting to see them everywhere -

Ebay

Maybe its because they are so easy to make into pillows - Here is a simple example that is just tied at the top!

I recently had the opportunity to speak with ebay seller "loodylady".

She is a major importer of hemp and antique linen. Here is what she says about this wonderful heirloom fabric:

"These antique and vintage treasures are available in a tremendous range of textures, tones and weights. Most would have been patiently woven by hand. The linens date from between 60 to 150 years old and many would have been stored carefully, for instance in a dowry chest, given the massive investment of time represented by each item. The shades vary from earthen grey and deep flaxy tones to bright almost white sun bleached linen. Some are plain, while others feature stripes or banding in a range of colours. The fibre content is usually flax, hemp or a combination of the two. Weaves range from a lovely open, loose weave to finely woven, tight and evenly spaced. Textures range from soft to rough. The linens are durable and most are machine washable, making them ideal for upholstery, cushions, tablecloths, table runners, curtains, bedcovers, bath mats, stair runners and the many other creative uses that our customers tell us of every day."

You can find more interesting information on her website:

http://www.textiletrunk.com/

Here are some beautiful pillows from the Dan Marty Designs. Aren't these beautiful??

And some more great examples from Velvet and Linen.

Ebay

These pillows really bring in some wonderful texture and personality to these rooms. Perfect for a summer home or in a damp climate because hemp is naturally mildew and mold resistant.

Ebay

I also love how we are now seeing these lovely antique linens being used as upholstery. Here is an example of a piece done by a customer of eBay seller, "loodylady" .

Below are even more examples how you can incorporate hemp grain sacks into your home.

The three items above are available from Dan Marty Designs! Aren't they charming?

Pottery Barn
Even Pottery Barn is getting into the game with this reproduction. I haven't seen it in person but the picture is very nice!

LA TIMES

I adore these chairs - the backs are upholstered in vintage grain sacks that are also printed while the fronts are classic stripe. Below are many more examples for you to get ideas!

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Here is a great example of how wonderful a headboard can look - but I could do with out the floral pillow.

Below are examples of using these textiles as stair runners.