Hessian - what type for what to make?

[ThursFriHappy]

Thinking of going down the hessian route, wedding favour bags, runners etc, but also to make lunch bags and storage boxes for the kitchen/living room.

There seems to be different weaves and weights, I'm confused about which to use for which.

I have looked for ideas, but don't want to buy the one that unravels in front of your eyes, but one where you can see the weave (beach bag kind of thing). So many different types! Where do I begin? Many thanks in advance

[CatherineDeB]

You need to get samples or go to see it in the flesh ime.

Not just the weave, some are so coarse you might not want them and others really smell, as in really really smell!

[ThursFriHappy]

Oh God, yes you're right, probably the best option to look.
Didn't know about the smell bit
Thanks Catherine

[CatherineDeB]

Jute is a more refined version, less likely to smell generally but hessian (or burlap) can stink.

I bought some in a shop a few years ago to make Christmas sacks and had to wash it before sewing with it and it still stank (still does when I open the box every December).

A quick google tells me that .....

"Rest assured, the fabric is completely natural (i.e. nothing you wouldn't smell on a farm)".