Creating a truly effective ghillie suit requires careful consideration of materials, and burlap stands out as a crucial component. Its natural texture, color variations, and affordability make it a cornerstone for many DIY and professional ghillie suit builds. This guide delves into the specific reasons why burlap is so well-suited for this purpose, addressing its benefits and drawbacks to help you make informed decisions in your own ghillie suit construction.
Why Burlap is Ideal for Ghillie Suit Construction
Burlap's unique characteristics make it an exceptionally effective material for camouflaging within various natural environments. Let's break down its key advantages:
1. Natural Texture and Appearance:
The rough, uneven texture of burlap closely mimics the appearance of natural vegetation, such as dried grasses, leaves, and twigs. This inherent irregularity is far superior to synthetic fabrics in blending seamlessly with the surrounding environment, making the wearer less conspicuous.
2. Versatile Color Palette:
While often associated with a muted beige or brown, burlap comes in a variety of natural shades, offering flexibility for adapting to different terrains. From sandy deserts to dense forests, choosing the right burlap color is essential for effective camouflage. You can further enhance the camouflage by dyeing or painting sections of the burlap to better match specific environments.
3. Cost-Effectiveness:
Compared to other materials used in ghillie suits, burlap is remarkably affordable. This makes it an accessible option for both beginners experimenting with ghillie suit construction and seasoned enthusiasts creating multiple suits for varied environments.
4. Durability and Longevity:
Burlap is a relatively durable fabric, capable of withstanding the rigors of outdoor use. While not indestructible, its strength ensures the ghillie suit maintains its structural integrity over extended periods. Proper care and maintenance will significantly extend its lifespan.
Considerations and Potential Drawbacks
While burlap offers many advantages, it's crucial to acknowledge its limitations:
1. Weight and Bulk:
Burlap can be relatively heavy and bulky, particularly when compared to lighter synthetic fabrics. This added weight might be a concern for extended periods of wear, especially in warm climates.
2. Potential for Stiffness:
Untreated burlap can feel stiff and uncomfortable against the skin. Pre-treating the burlap with a softening agent or incorporating softer fabrics can mitigate this issue.
3. Susceptibility to Moisture:
Burlap is susceptible to absorbing moisture, which can lead to discomfort and increased weight. Applying a water-resistant treatment can significantly reduce this drawback.
Optimizing Burlap for Ghillie Suit Construction
To maximize the effectiveness of burlap in your ghillie suit, consider these tips:
Pre-Treatment:
Softening the burlap before cutting and sewing can improve comfort and handling. Washing and drying the burlap can also reduce stiffness and shrink it to its final size.
Color Matching:
Selecting burlap colors that closely match the environment where the ghillie suit will be used is critical for optimal camouflage. Consider using multiple shades of burlap for a more realistic appearance.
Attachment Techniques:
Securely attaching natural vegetation to the burlap is key. Consider using strong thread, netting, or even staples to ensure a robust and long-lasting camouflage effect.
Conclusion: Burlap's Indispensable Role
Burlap remains a cornerstone material in the construction of effective ghillie suits. Its natural texture, color variety, affordability, and relative durability make it a compelling choice for both beginners and experienced builders. By understanding its advantages and limitations, and by employing appropriate preparation and attachment techniques, you can harness burlap's potential to create a highly effective and convincingly natural camouflage solution.
