Great year for Burlap Sales

We had a great year this year, with Burlap sales really picking up quite a bit. The big winners this year were wedding burlap for rusting weddings, construction burlap and gardening burlap. Hoping for an even bigger year next year!

Polyester Lining is now available from Nusso textiles fabric Division

There are very few people who have 100% polyester lining in Canada. Our broadcloth business has grown and has created an interest in Polyester lining. The 3 oz . 100% polyester lining is 60 inches wide and is machine washable.
We are staring with th3 3 b3st selling colors white black and ecru
Some of the features include
Wrinkle Resistant
Soft Hand
Machine Washable and dry able.
Resistant to to stretching and shrinkage.

Polyester Lining is used for dress, jacket and suit lining and garment needing added shape, support and strength, It has many uses in crafts and home decorating projects.
Piece length are 25 meters double folded on boards, cut from 100 meter rolls. We do have short ends available.

Using wider burlap for gardening more efficiently

The Toronto parks department phonied in their annual order of burlap used  to protect trees and saplings in the Toronto area parks over the winter ( Another satisfied customer and a wonderful endorsement)



I had time to have a short discussion with the buyer, He was not aware that we had 60 inch wide burlap as well. In the past they bought our 40 inch wide rolls. he asked me to wait a while and called back and told me that they had determined that the parks employees will be able to work at a 50-60% higher efficiency by using the wider burlap .


They were so pleased with  this new find. As the new mandate of our elected officials is to cut costs.  I am posting this in my effort to share this finding with our  regular customers . The full rolls of burlap can still be shipped by FedEx.

A reminder to my customers when you make the windbreak, surround with burlap or jute, DO NOT use plastic as the plant will suffer sunburn and cook on a sunny day

 The only use of plastic in your yard is around the base of you want to protect against rabbits and other rodents that gnaw at base of trees.


Please leave your comments on this finding below.

Backdrop fabric used in draping trade show booths and tables

We attend 4 to 5 trade shows annually. The show organizers used to provide drapes between the booths and in an effort to cut costs they discontinued this practice. This turned into a bonus opportunity for Nusso Textiles as our backdrop fabrics are perfect for draping over the poles and bars.

Renting draping material is sixty to seventy dollars.and of course you have to give it back when the show is over. Any tears or damages are the renters' responsibly..
Alternatively you can spend fifteen dollars on 90 inch white or 114 ecru backdrop fabric that will drape nicely between the booths. When show organizers want a neutral  colour fabric, our white and ecru shades meet this requirement  As the fabric is a blend of polyester and cotton it can be washed if necessary and reused.many times

If all you need is a partition and do not need the draping effect. The polypropylene non woven 60 inch fabric would be excellent. the price is under $1.00 a meter.

Why not save more and use the same fabric to drape the display tables. The same fabric that you would use on the pipe and drape system, will work with modular exhibit pop us displays and panel and frame systems,

The typical mini booth is 10 x 10 foot square. and multiples of that for larger booths. Always be aware of the fire code when it comes to draping fabric before you purchase  for your show.

The following images show the different configuration that our background fabric b=can be used in trade show booths

full draping  3 sides of  trade booth

full drape in back and half on side

booth draping and table draping

Cheesecloth in Box

Update for our cheesecloth customers. Our cheesecloth is now packaged in boxes for greater convenience. See picture for what it now looks like. Visit the link above to see prices and size of boxes. We have also added Grades #10, #60 and #90 to our selection.

Fabric for Parade Floats

Had an interesting call from a new potential customer who was looking for some white broadcloth for a Santa Clause parade in souther Ontario. He was inquiring what the difference was between blue/white and white/white broadcloth. I explained to him that it is very difficult to see the difference, especially in an photo taken in the poor lighting conditions of our warehouse. Even seeing it in the warehouse it is difficult for me to tell the difference.

During our conversation I informed the customer that he would probably be better off purchasing our backdrop fabric instead. The backdrop fabric would probably be a better solution for the Santa Clause parade float. After taking the time to look through our fabric website he placed the order for the backdrop fabric.

Its nice to know that our materials are being used for good causes and I continue to be pleasantly surprised as to the diverse range of uses our fabric selection gets used for.

60" Wide Burlap

We recently started carrying the 60" wide burlap and have been pleasantly surprised at the success it has had in the early stages. After carrying only the 40" wide burlap for the last 30 years, the 60" wide burlap is now outperforming the 40" by a wide margin. It appears we have unlocked sales that we weren't previously getting which is a great thing these days.

I am a little curious as to why the 60" is more popular than the 40" and will have to ask a few customers who walk in and pick it up (about half the customers pick the stuff up instead of shipping it out). It's always good to dialogue with customers and hear what they have to say. Perhaps we should start carrying the 72" wide burlap as well?

Our backdrop fabric is used by the Toronto Film Industry & Theatre

Our backdrop fabrics both the white and the ecru muslin sheeting  are  used in the new Pinewood studio in Toronto. The new 15,000 sq ft sound stage is used for both big budget Hollywoord movies and television  shows for NBC Universal.
We are proud to be a part of this growing film industry in Toronto. There are other studios in the city Cinespace  currently filming Resident Evil. Toronto has succesfuly pursued the film industry with a special Film Commissioner with offices in city hall.
In the past our fabrics were found at both a the Shaw and Stratford Fesitvals. We did not know which production it was being used in but felt a sense  of pride with each sale. Pioneer Village has smaller theatrical production and they too have been long time loyal customers.
When they talk about spinoff benefits of the film industry in Nusso Textiles is among the beneficiaries of this municipal endeavor
Interestingly enough these big budget films watch each dollar spent, for that reason our low cost cheap backdrop fabric is being used locally and recommended to each other 
An aside they had a film shoot that was to take place out doors in a field. Toronto experienced a flash snow storm. there was snow on the ground in  April. , filming had to go on. They cleared the snow where they were filming, and bought our burlap to cover the background.and hide the snow.

The burlap jute was picked up in 3 taxis and transported to the film site.
Thank you Toronto Film Commissioner

Halloween Broadcloth fabric Colors

Being a fabric distributor of Broadcloth for over 40 years.  We have found that Broadcloth sales for Halloween are always an enigma. The season is short one. Crafts , costumes and theatrical productions made have limited time exposure. However orange and black polyester cotton broadcloth is always sold out by mid September. I will calender to contact my customers and book orders for broadcloth in advance next year to avoid disappointment and the stress caused by loyal customers not being able to complete their orders taken at the various trade and craft shows
Schools also are getting into the Halloween sewing spirit. Large muslin backdrops with student art painted on it drape the halls , alongside muslin snowmen and stuffed muslin dolls.
The 100% cotton muslin takes on paint and pencil art easily. The Muslin backdrops are also good for theatre productions usually the next project for schools after Halloween..
I have included some pictures volunteered by Nusso Textiles customers to give ideas and inspiration.

Muslin Broadcloth Sewing Project

How to use cheesecloth for Halloween projects and ghosts

Its that time of year again everybody is scouring the Internet looking for cheesecloth. And quick delivery of it as well.

Fortunately we think ahead and are well stocked with cheesecloth for the Halloween season. Most customers make stationary ghost , ghost costumes ceiling ghosts and scenery with our cheesecloth. I will give some basic instructions. Contact us and I will send you cutouts and details plans. Here are some basic instructions for gost applications

Time required 1 hour paper towel tube , or any type of rounded support,  Waterproof spray if placing outside, Liquid starch , small colorfull balls for eyes

Picture of cheesecloth ghost in Halloween display

Cut cheeseclothinto desires sheet length
Soak  cheesecloth in bowl oft liquid starch. Pull each sheet out one at a time and squeeze the excess moisture out. 
ghostsfor shaping use aluminum foil around mild  container   or balloons if making ceiling 
Once everything is thoroughly dry, lift the ghosts off the jugs or bottles. The ghosts will be able to stand or any flat surface. I recommend 5 -6 layers of grade 20 cheesecloth . if you use a higher grade say 40 or 50 you will need only 4 layers . Basically spend more use less


Allow the cheesecloth to dry for at least a full 24 hours.

Close up of cheesecloth ghost

-After the ghost is dry, remove the form from the inside of the ghost. 


Please send me a quick note i will  promptly send you detailed plans cut outs and diagrams . Happy Halloween

unbleached cotton muslin fabric for waxing strips

Our  100 percent cotton natural muslin  is perfect for the manufacture of pre-cut wax strips, as natural muslin fabric, is easy to tear or cut to size
 

Our muslin item # 5090 is a thin, lightweight fabric commonly used for waxing.  On the retail level strips can be easily cut to match the size required and for different parts of the body 

Treated they maintain a  moderately  stiff shape, allowing easy application and removal. Its .fine inherent  texture allows for maximum absorption with a pleasant results. 

The fabric  allows for accurate  hair removal.and it can be used use with Azulene, sugar and all other depilatory products.

You can make yourself or it is available at many beauty stores and drugstores. You can contact us if you are looking for a local distributor.

cheesecloth for hunters

Every year I undertake to write a blog about cheesecloth and the hunting & trapping industry. But I become too busy shipping the cheesecloth to write. Again this year I will try, it is already mid hunting season. I hope the post is still in time to inform this season’s gamesmen.

To answer the most common question Grade 50  - 70%  then grade 40- 30%  are the most popular grades. It sometimes referred to as a meat sock.

If temparurures do not go below 40 degrees remove the hide and over with cheesecloth. If under 40 degrees  you can wait a few hours.
.       
Exposed meat is coated with black pepper and covered with the cheesecloth.This helps to  keep insects and parasites away.and to keep the meat clean while in transport. When  hunting off road cheesecloth is a vital necessity

Where has all the fabric gone?

It is interesting how over the years the variety and supply of fabrics and textiles in Canada has dwindled dramatically. Ever since the production of mainstream goods began to move overseas, the selection of high quality textiles in Canada has dwindled dramatically.

Many years ago, broadcloth was a major revenue driver as compared to the present day where it represents merely a fringe product line. It seems unlikely that the fabric and textile industry will go back to its former glory, but stranger things have happened.

Straining tomatoes with cheesecloth

Tomato season is upon us,  the request are coming in for straining tomatoes, our grade 40 & 50 cheesecloth is the most requested grade of cheesecloth for this purpose

Instructions place the tomatoes in a  sieve and run under cool water. Trim off the stems and discard. Drain and set the tomatoes aside in a bowl.

• Set the sieve over a bowl. Place two or three tomatoes in the sieve and crush the tomatoes.. The pulp and seeds will drain through the sieve,  do  few tomatoes at a time
• 
  
  Then line the sieve with cheesecloth  pour in the tomato pulp. Work the pulp through the cheese cloth with a wooden spoon. The pulp and juice that strain through will now be ready for cooking.
  let us know if you prefer grade 40 or grade 50. It will save us a lot of time when customers are in doubt

Broadcloth & Diversity in Canada

Selling broadcloth in Canada, one learns of our rich heritage and history. First Nation reserves and Native Canadian communities are one of our`largest customers. our broadcloth is used in the ceremonial flags and costumes for celebratory and religious occasions.
Some communities are served by small plane only. with deliveries once every two weelks. .We are proud that our fabric and broadcloth finds its way into our`rich cuture and heritage that makes Canada one of the most culturally rich countries in the world.

Sewing Schools use Unbleached Cotton Mulin Fabric

its nice to think that the next great fashion designer in Canada will have trained on our unbleached cotton.
Unbleached Premium Cotton Muslin is a medium weight natural cotton muslin used in sewing & fashion schools throughout Canada. it drapes beautifully,  is not expensive and is durable.  Dressmakers and fashion designers test the fit of a garment, using  inexpensive muslin fabric before cutting the  intended fabric.
It is an excellent training tool and saves money avoiding  costly mistakes. the widths are from 36” to 110”, wider widths are used for theatre , photographic and art applications

Muslin Backdrops

Muslin backdrops are manufactured out of loosely-woven fabric (usually cotton materials). and is referred to in the trade as factory cotton or greige fabric. People favor muslin backdrops as it holds color perfectly. Muslin backdrop are ideal to paint or stencil on. Our muslin has a blend of polyester which minimizes wrinkling and the need to iron between washes, the 110” (280 cm) width is more than adequate for most theater , movie studio  and photographic applications.

Burlap for sandbags to help stop flooding in Central Canada

A few high profile volunteer organizations in Canada have approached us to see how fast we can get our burlap converted to sandbags , our production is overwhelmed at this time.

The specifications are 10 OZ  , which is what we carry ( they do not require miltary specs)  and they want a tie string,

We can provide the burlap or jute to  scouts girl guides schools and  summer campls in the hopw that you can create a project  to sew them up quickly so thy can be sent where needed, 
Specifically southern  Manitoba .

if your organization would like to participate in this worthy project we will pay the shipping to your location  . and give you further details, pl;ease refer to  this blog when contacting us for the free shipping.

Cheesecloth for cleaning lexan

Imagine my surprise when I received a fax from CFB xxxxx. home of the xx helicopter squadron ordering cheesecloth , 
i assumed it was  for the kitchen facility on base. 

Then i receievd another cheesecloth order from a renowned helicopter flying school.in B.C
I inquired as to its use, i was informed that cheescloth is recommended for cleaning the very sensitive lexan windows and canopies on flying craft .Grade 50 is most popular. 

Its soft natural construction minimizes scratches to the very sensitive lexan windows. When we started carrying cheesecloth during the 1980' who would have figured that we would have the aviation sector as customers.

We are proud to be suppliers to the Canadian Forces.

 xxx for secuiity reasons i am withholding name and location

Some Pictures of our 100% Cotton Flanellete

cheesecloth and furniture refinsihing

Antique furniture restorers, wood finishers painters, and antique dealers use cheesecloth for furniture refinishing and restoring

Cheesecloth inherently is  softer than brushes when applying stain on dry wood and is highly absorbent. it is an open weave fabric made of cotton fibers are lint free.

It is important for any woodworking project, because lint or loose bristles  will ruin the finish.  We recommend using two pieces of cheesecloth for each painting or staining project , One to apply and spread and clean new pieces to wipe off .

Any left over is not wasted as it makes a great dusting, buffing and soft cleaning cloth

cheesecloth curtains

Customers researching cheesecloth curtains should be aware that we recommend  Grade 80 cheesecloth or tighter ONLY.

Grade 80 Cheesecloth is the most  durable  quality we carry

The 80 grade cheesecloth has 44 x 36 threads per square inch, making it close to solid fabric in terms of handling and draping. You will be surprised  how financially viable this project is.

This dense weave cheesecloth is excellent for curtains  It diffuses light and and can act as a privacy barrier

It can be dyed, sprayed  and even stenciled further enhancing its usability

This versatile cheese cloth fabric is durable, of excellent quality, and will last over time. The width of the cheesecloth is 36 inches, which may require more sewing and joining. This extra effort is worth it as the final product  looks great.Tier curtains , tailored swags and Valances all adapt easily  to the 36” width and will not reqyuire as much sewing and joining.Full length curtains require more sewing, but is well worth the effort. as the final product will be unique and beautiful. 

Burlap for your shrubs and home decorating

Live and learn today recently I received  a call from a renowned decorator who buys our down feather pillow inserts.
She wanted to use our burlap as a wall covering.
She mentioned its for  a very high value apartment in Midtown Toronto


I followed up with her a short while ago and  yes it  worked out well and was suitable 

FYI in case someone else is interested I asked her to explain to me how she applies it to the wall. It's applied with blue special fabric adhesive to any type of wall. 

-Staple wood along the top and the bottom to give it a good stretch
-Iin the middle use  fabric glue t keep the burlap affixed to the wal

The nature of the fabric lends itself lends itself to the flaws that are part of its beauty it gives the room of very warm and rustic look, easily maintained  and is timeless.price is currently 1.10 yd..and at 40 inches wide  you would get great value.

Historical Preservation Society and unbleached cotton

Feed back Name: Fiona at  The Centre for Arts and Ideas  Feed back Text:
We were very pleased with the fabric. The shipping was timely and the product was as promised.  I was wondering if i could have a copy of the invoice amount, as the original was not turned into our office by the person whom took delivery of it for us.
Thank you

Historic Preservation Society
December 4, 2010 08:16:36 AM EDT
PS i can not figure out how they put our unbleached cotton muslin  to work in this are. If anybody has anay ideas please let us  know. In the interim, yes they did get the invoice and I guess they are still happy

Burlap place mats & runners for rustic weddingd

Recently,  we had a new customer, who used the chat feature on our website, he stated he was a sewing contractor. The conversation followed to talking on the phone; I asked him: “tell me what do you do with the burlap, that you have all these questions?”



He told me that he has the contract for a very large rustic wedding in B.C for 675 guests and is sewing up place mats and runners and other motif pieces . I understood they used  my burlap for walking runners and for accent points throughout the rustic venues, but Runners and place mats as well?
Live and learn... I asked that he please send me a photo of the completed products; he was able to share with me the following, the other items that he made including the burlap headbands for the bridesmaids and small flower arrangements  he will forward and i will post once he gets permission from the wedding planner and designer, I will keep you posted.

cheesecloth uses in the marine industry

The  weather is not screaming summer  but the calender shows that is arriving and we are getting those annual calls for our cheesecloth. Being that cheesecloth  is loosely woven with a soft open construction it is perfect for  separating particulates from varnish, and for general cleaning, polishing, and wiping of watercraft. Our cheesecloth ( some refer to it as cheese cloth)  is available in 4 grades, the higher grades being more suitable in the marine industry. The packages are 100 yds and double folded for easy handling. feedback and repeat business form our annual customers is a testament to the suitability and quality. lately we have had some short ends available from the mill  and we can ship pieces smaller than the 100 yards as posted.

ear candling and unbleached cotton muslin

As explained to me by my customers in the field of natural medicine who purchase our unbleached factory cotton for ear candling. The treatment of candling  is primarily used for healing and spiritual purification, and to balance energy

Quality ear candles are made from beeswax and unbleached cotton cloth. The muslin is used to make tube-shaped candles soaked in beeswax. Some naturopath refer to them as Hopi ear candles, a reference to the Hopi Native Americans who practiced this art. Our muslin factory cotton is  considered suitable for candling as it is in its natural state not bleached dyed or chemically treated. see our feedback section for more comments on our unbleached cotton used in the manufacture of ear candles

burlap sacks , potato sacks for track and field events

It is now high school track and field event time across Canada, and Summer camps are stocking up for the months ahead  and as usual we have our annual  calls for  burlap for the burlap sacks also known as potato sacks. The durable heavy weight burlap will ensue lots of fun for the single and double sack events.
The 40 inch width is perfect for  racing sacks for middle school and high school competitions. Please remember to double stitch  the  seams at it is a inherently a  loose weave fabric.
Good Luck competitors & Be Safe

Unbleaced cotton muslin vs cheesecloth applications

Among the many of the queries that customers ask is: “What is the difference between cheesecloth and unbleached cotton (muslin)?”
The similarities are obvious in that they both have open weaves and are inexpensive materials. The differences are that cheesecloth is lint free. This is of particular importance when the application is for dusting and cleaning the furniture or glass or for steaming straining and poaching. Unbleached cotton is more serviceable for the sewing industry not for the food or household care industry as it will leave lint and may have some imperfections in the weave. We recommend using the unbleached cotton muslin for sewing and pattern making and for backing of craft projects.

Feedback from Ecole Holt Couture

Jutta said

As a Couture Sewing and Design School, we are always looking for high quality products and reliable suppliers; organizations with which we can develop solid business relationships. At EHC we are very pleased with the efficient communication, quick delivery and products which Nusso Textiles provides. We will definitley be returning to Nusso Textiles for our needs. Thank you!
Jutta,
Ecole Holt Couture
July 27, 2009 6:10 PM

broadcloth for bandannas

Nusso was great. You had both bolts of fabric that I was looking for, which caught me off guard.I was expecting you to have only one of the two I needed. I'll be a regular at your Toronto location.
Next time I'm in, I'll ask about delivery, because I'm from Hamilton. Sometimes, delivery is easier, sometimes being there in person is better. Your selection of broadcloth colours was great. But I did not notice any super bright (fluorescent) colours, which I use in my "Adopt Me" bandannas (used by dog rescues and foster parents, to let people know the dog is not theirs but available for adoption). Although I was not looking for that today.
Thanks for being there,
www.lisasdogbandannas.net
May 24/2010 8:31 PM

burlap to protect your garden from raccoons and wildlfe

With the onset of the gardening and planting season, raccoons and other wildlife are digging up gardens and eating the seedlings and freshly planted bulbs We have had an unprecedented amount of orders from our gardening supply customers for our gardening burlap . We are always interested to learn and share info so I asked them how it used , I will share the secret with the rest of you, The gardeners spread the burlap on the newly planted area of their garden or yard using stakes and short poles. They then put small amounts of moth balls or cayenne pepper on top of the burlap. They tell me that their customers are pleased with the results and have safely and with harm to wildlife kept their garden intact They like our burlap in particular as it is in manage able rolls 50 meters or so and the width 42 inch also easily handled .

Burlap feedback and interesting post

From Anne Fowler,
Hi Sam: Just a note to thank you and your helpful staff for once again assisting me with my burlap order. As you know, I take this fabric to Honduras to give to three local women....providing them with the material they need to sew "Bee Bags". The sale of these multi use bags provides their families with income enabling them to buy food. If people should want to "see" what this project (and our other programs in Honduras) are all about, please go to my web site www.anne.honduranhope.net
Thanks again, Anne Fowler
Tuesday OCT 05, 2010 at 7:16 AM

Muslin Backdrops

Muslin backdrops are made of loosely-woven fabric that is made of cotton and/or polyester materials. These fabrics are known in the trade as factory cotton or greige as well as the aforementioned muslin and unbleached cotton.

People favour muslin backdrops as they hold colour well. Muslin backdrop are perfect to paint or stencil on. Our muslin has a blend of polyester which minimizes wrinkling, allowing a "permanent press" look. This mitigates the need to iron between washes.

The 110” (280 cm) width is more than adequate for most theater, movie studio and photographic applications, though many use widths in excess of ten feet, which is hard to find in fabric on the roll.

Products Made from Greige Cotton and Canvas

Practical and durable, unbleached cotton greige and canvas are long lasting and very enviremently friendly. The 4.5 oz, 100 % cotton muslin is a good light duty fabric for the manufacture of reusable bags. We carry a heavier weight canvas @ 10 oz. for heavier bags requireing more durability.
Camps and school project directors are very pleased with our unbleached cotton, please read the feedback left by some of our satsfied customers.
Simple sewing skill is all that is required to complete these worthwhile projects, bags can be stamped, dyed or printed on after completing the project.

New video posted to Nusso's Youtube channel

Quick update here...

Posted a new video to our YouTube Channel for white cotton terry. Check out all of our product videos by visiting our YouTube Channel.

Burlap at Weddings? YES

Classic bulap usually thought of as a garden accoutrement can now be found at the fanciest weddings and social affairs.
Rustic weddings and affairs, now sport burlap runners, centerpieces chair covers and table cloths, our burlap is suitable. Its clean easy to work with and on rolls. Party and wedding planners have all left positive feedback with regards to its use on our web site
Party on,

100% Cotton White Terry Now Available

We are now carrying the 36" wide 100% white cotton terry. It is made in Pakistan or China. The material is double folded on a bolt for convenience. The weight is 8oz per sq/yd.

Burlap Video

Here's a YouTube video we made about the burlap fabric we carry.



For more videos of Nusso products, please visit our YouTube channel.

Cheesecloth

Cheesecloth used to be used for making cheese, but has evolved to be used for esoteric purposes such as aircraft cleaning, wine filtering and even as a lace backing for curtain panels. For more information about cheesecloth, visit www.nusso.com/fabric/cheesecloth.htm

White Backdrop Fabric

Nusso is now carrrying white backdrop fabric that is 7.5 feet wide. This is useful for photographers or artists who need a long backdrop and don't want to spend too much money. Backdrop material is available by the meter and will be cut after the customer places the order. For more information visit Nusso's white backdrop fabric page.

Burlap has many uses

It is always interesting to see what uses burlap has. Recently we sold some burlap for concrete. Surprisingly, burlap has multiple uses ranging fro gardening, manufacturing all the way to burlap for rusting weddings. For more information about burlap available from Nusso Textiles, please click on the above links.

Where to buy fabric in Canda

Nusso textiles supplies the following fabrics in canda:
Broadcloth
Burlap
Cheesecloth
Unbleached Cotton

For more details please visit the above links.