Mesh Fabric - Everything You Need To Know

Mesh Fabric: What Is Mesh Fabric And How To Use Them

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You might recognize the tutus of dancing ballerinas when they perform. Or perhaps you've noticed the seductive fishnet stockings worn during nights out.

The fabrics with small holes are called mesh fabrics, distinctively popular in today's textile world.

Mesh has a rich history, originally crafted by fishermen as fish nets over a century ago. However, it wasn't until the late 18th century that mesh evolved into a fabric, thanks to British mill owner Lewis Haslam.

Initially referred to as Aertex due to its breathability from the holes, mesh only became commonly known as mesh fabric in the 20th century.

Mesh textiles serve many purposes, spanning from clothing to home decor items.

What Is Mesh Fabric?

Mesh fabric is characterized as a loosely knitted material. It follows a grid pattern with evenly spaced holes for enhanced breathability, creating a net-like appearance.

This fabric appears in various weights, mesh shapes, elasticities, and thicknesses, producing a wide range of looks and feels compared to other textiles.

Characteristics of Mesh Fabrics

The hallmark feature of mesh textiles is their breathability. Other notable characteristics include:

Breathable

Mesh fabric is highly breathable due to its loose construction, allowing heat and sweat to escape. This makes it an excellent option for athletic wear.

Easy Maintenance

Due to their moisture-wicking capabilities and synthetic nature, mesh textiles are relatively easy to care for.

Wrinkle-Free

Mesh textiles resist wrinkling because of their knitted construction, eliminating the need for ironing.

Strong

Designed to be durable, mesh textiles were originally utilized to catch fish and are made from synthetic materials, enhancing their strength.

Elastic

As a type of knitted fabric, mesh has excellent stretchability.

Water-Resistant

Similar to other polyester and nylon fabrics, mesh is water-resistant, making it ideal for sports apparel due to its moisture-wicking characteristics.

What Kind of Material Is Mesh?

Mesh fabrics can be crafted from various materials, but they are predominantly constructed from polyester, nylon, and spandex, with synthetic fibers preferred due to their strength.

What is the Strongest Mesh Material?

The most robust mesh material is polyester, which possesses a tensile strength of 112 pounds and a tear strength of 31 pounds. In fact, it is 100% stronger than fiberglass.

Polyester mesh can endure extreme conditions, showcasing its remarkable durability!

How Are Mesh Fabrics Made?

Mesh fabrics are produced differently based on the fibers employed; most processes begin by extracting polyamide monomers from petroleum.

These monomers are mixed with acids to formulate polymers, which are then melted and formed into strands.

After dyeing them to the desired color, the strands are sent to textile factories for knitting into fabric.

Types of Mesh Fabrics

Due to its versatility, various types of mesh fabrics exist. Here are some common varieties:

Polyester Mesh

Polyester mesh stands out as the strongest type, known for its lightweight nature and sweat-wicking abilities, primarily utilized in sportswear.

Nylon Mesh

Less common than polyester mesh, nylon mesh is often applied in household items, such as tent screens, laundry hampers, and beekeeping veils, but can also feature in evening dresses.

Tulle

Tulle showcases a hexagonal pattern instead of the typical grid, often appearing in performance attire like ballerina tutus. When layered, it creates a voluminous texture.

Power Mesh

More elastic than regular mesh, power mesh is mainly used in sportswear and shapewear.

What Is Mesh Fabric Used For? Applications Of Mesh Fabric

Mesh fabric's adaptability allows it to be crafted into different shapes, sizes, and materials, leading to many applications:

Intimate Apparel, Hosiery, and Shapewear

Commonly found in intimate apparel, hosiery, and shapewear, mesh's intricate pattern and comfort make it a popular choice for lingerie, tights, stockings, and form-fitting garments.

Sportswear

Due to its lightweight and breathable characteristics, mesh fabric is frequently used in leggings, sports bras, swimsuits, and other activewear.

Home Use

Mesh isn't exclusively for clothing. It's also employed in home applications, including blinds, mosquito nets, awnings, and laundry hampers.

Net Products

Initially created for fishing, mesh products are still widely used, with synthetic textiles replacing traditional ropes in modern nets.

Medical Use

While often overlooked, surgical mesh plays a crucial role in medicine, especially in hernia repairs and prolapse treatments.

Can You Sew On Mesh Fabric?

Indeed, mesh fabric can be sewn as it is classified as a fabric. Here’s a brief guide:

How to Sew Mesh Cloth

Being a knit fabric, mesh should be treated as such when sewing. You have options:

• Utilize a serger, overlocker, or edging machine.
• Employ a portable sewing machine with a ballpoint needle and a zigzag stitch.

Conclusion

The multitude of possibilities offered by mesh textiles is remarkable. From creating sportswear and costumes to crafting body shapers or stylish lingerie, the options are vast.

Additionally, mesh can be fashioned into practical home items like laundry hampers or mosquito nets. For the adventurous, it can also be employed for outdoor gear, tent covers, and fishing nets.

With the endless potentials of mesh fabrics, you are sure to find a use for them in your upcoming projects!