Go ‘Au Naturel’ with Sisal

June 18, 2015

Sisal (say size-ul) was among the hot trends at the recent Lake Forest Showhouse where we saw sisal rugs and carpet in many rooms, including ours!

Sisal (say size-ul) was among the hot trends at the recent Lake Forest Show house where we saw sisal rugs and carpet in many rooms, including ours!

Photo Courtesy of Sweet Peas Design I’m not surprised that this natural “green” fiber is gaining traction. It is durable, stylish, versatile, easy to maintain and affordable. We love the texture, the colors and the casual, organic look too.

Photo Courtesy of traditionalhome.com

For centuries the fibers were used to make twine and rope, so you know it is strong and long-lasting, which makes it a great choice for high-traffic areas such as halls and stairways. We suggest adding a banding to finish the sides of a stair runner. Sisal fibers also can be dyed in many colors and woven into textural patterns that add interest to any room.

Photos Courtesy of shineyourlightblog.com and rowhousenest.com

You would never guess from seeing the sisal plant (a.k.a. agave sisalana), that it could be converted into something beautiful,or edible! The thick, fleshy leaves end in a sharp point with a spiny margin and often are confused with cacti. The flowers, leaves, stalks and sap, which can be turned into syrup and sugar, are all edible, though we don’t recommend munching on your rug!

Photo Courtesy of housebeautiful.com