Mesh

Definition and Overview

Mesh is a general term for textiles with a net-like appearance, with spaces between knit or woven loops. It is not a specific fiber name or weave name, but includes a variety of textiles with different hole sizes, shapes, densities, stretch properties, and more.

In knits, mesh made by circular knitting or warp knitting is common, and in woven fabrics, a net-like effect can also be created with leno weave and other structures. Even when the name mesh is the same, performance and suitable applications vary greatly depending on the material, knit or weave structure, and finish.

Characteristics

Because the spaces allow air to pass through, it generally has breathability and is lightweight and less likely to feel stuffy. Types with larger holes have stronger sheerness and are also used for layered looks and design details such as panel transitions.

Those made with polyester or nylon filament thread tend to have a smooth texture and dry quickly. On the other hand, depending on the knit structure, thread thickness, and density of the openings, some also have firm body, cushioning, and stretch.

• Types with small holes make it easier to retain breathability while keeping the skin or inner layers from showing through.
• Types with large holes create a lighter look, but snags and sheerness are more likely to stand out.
• Whether it has stretch cannot be determined from the mesh name alone. It is necessary to check the blend ratio and textile specifications.

Main Applications

In sportswear, uniforms, and outdoor clothing, it is used in areas where heat and moisture need to be released, such as underarms, the back, pocket bags, and ventilation sections. It is also used in spring and summer tops, innerwear, hats, bags, and more.

Fine mesh is sometimes used as a substitute for lining, pocket bags, or interfacing. For fashion applications, it is used in tops, skirts, dress layering, and panel transitions for sleeves or yokes, making use of its sheerness as a design feature.

Selection and Handling Notes

When selecting, check not only hole size but also industry weight, stretch, rebound, sheerness, tensile and burst strength, and resistance to snags according to the application. For uses close to the skin, also test edge firmness and skin feel in a sample.

Mesh can have unstable cut edges due to its openings, and seams may ripple. For stretch textiles, cut with the grain aligned, and use stabilizing tape if necessary. Choose a fine needle and thread suitable for the textile, and check for seam puckering and skipped stitches.

The degree of shrinkage, distortion, and fraying from washing varies depending on the fiber type, knit or weave structure, and finish. Follow the care label and consider handling appropriate to the product specifications, such as using a laundry net to avoid snags.

Differences from Similar Terms

Tulle is often treated as a warp-knit fabric with fine openings such as hexagonal ones, and is suited to uses that take advantage of its thinness and sheerness. Mesh is a broader term that can include tulle, and also covers thicker types with a stronger focus on functionality.

Power net is a mesh-like knit fabric made with polyurethane or similar materials to provide high stretch, compression, and shaping support. It differs from mesh used simply to obtain breathability in its emphasis on stretch recovery and compression. Raschel knitting refers to a warp-knitting technique or structure, and there are meshes made with raschel knitting.

Frequently Asked Questions