Grasscloth

What is Grasscloth?

Definition

Grasscloth is a category of natural wallcoverings made by weaving together natural plant fibers such as:

• Jute
• Raffia
• Seagrass
• Arrowroot
• Hemp
• Sisal
• Paperweave

These fibers are typically handwoven into a thin, often irregular weave, and then attached to a paper or nonwoven backing.
The result is a beautifully textured, highly tactile wallcovering that adds depth, warmth, and an artisanal feel to interior spaces.

Key Characteristics

• Natural Variation:Every panel of grasscloth is unique. Slight variations in color, weave, and texture are intentional and celebrated.
• Eco-Friendly:Made from renewable materials, often produced with low-impact manufacturing processes.
• Luxury Appeal:Associated with high-end design, grasscloth gives walls a richly organic and bespoke appearance.
• Surface Sensitivity:Grasscloth is more delicate than vinyl or synthetic wallcoverings — it can stain if not properly protected and is usually recommended for low-traffic, dry interior spaces.

Can You Digitally Print on Grasscloth?

Short Answer: Yes, but with Considerations.

You can digitally print on grasscloth, but it requires:

• Special preparation
• Modified printing techniques
• Careful substrate handling

Important Considerations:

Aspect	Details
Surface Texture	The natural weave and texture mean that the print will not be perfectly smooth — you get a beautiful organic distortion in the design.
Ink Compatibility	UV-curable, latex, or solvent inks are typically used, but they must be tested because natural fibers can absorb ink differently than synthetic substrates.
Pre-treatment	Some grasscloth materials are treated with a primer to better accept inks and prevent excessive absorption or bleeding.
Printing Technology	Wide-format UV or hybrid flatbed printers are most commonly used for grasscloth printing to accommodate the texture and thickness.
Application	Ideal for luxury branding, boutique hotels, feature walls, and any project emphasizing artisanal or bespoke design aesthetics.

Why Print on Grasscloth?

• Unique Texture: Adds a dimensional, natural richness to printed designs.
• Sustainability Appeal: Aligns with eco-conscious branding or wellness-focused interior projects.
• Luxury Look: Elevates wall graphics beyond what is possible with traditional smooth vinyls or papers.

Grasscloth on Substrate Bank

Find a selection of grasscloth wallcoverings for digital printing from leading industry suppliers at Substrate Bank.