Mesh is a loosely woven fabric that is typically constructed from nylon. Mesh is characterized by holes that are uniform across the fabric that vary in size according to the kind of mesh. Synthetic fabrics like Polyester ensure that the fabric is robust and can withstand all wear due to its open weave and structure.
Mesh fabric's open and porous design offers airflow, flexibility, as well as comfort. If you're considering using mesh fabric or learning how to sew mesh fabric on your own, we will discuss the process using detailed methods as well as helpful suggestions.
Is Mesh Fabric Hard to Sew?
Sewing mesh fabric presents many unique challenges due to its delicate yet open structure. Due to its lightweight yet loosely woven composition, the mesh can fray easily under your sewing machine's feed dogs, while handling requires gentle touch so as to not stretch or distort during the sewing process. However, with proper techniques and some patience, even beginners can sew the mesh fabric successfully!
How Do You Cut Mesh Fabric?
Like most fabrics, it is advisable to pre-wash your mesh fabric to familiarize yourself with the washing instructions and to address any potential shrinkage before starting your project. Although unlikely, pre-washing helps ensure that any shrinkage occurs prior to the construction of your project. Our mesh fabric can be easily cared for by machine washing it at 60 degrees, tumble drying it, and using a cool iron. However, it's important to note that certain mesh fabrics may require cool or hand washing only.
When it comes to cutting mesh fabric, while you can use scissors (if you have the patience for it!), we highly recommend utilizing a rotary cutter and a self-healing mat, along with pattern weights, for the most precise cuts. Attempting to cut through two layers at once may result in inaccurately shaped patterns. The layers tend to shift and slide, so it's best to cut one layer at a time.
How Can You Sew Mesh Fabric?
Mesh fabric can be difficult to sew due to its delicate nature and the tendency for shifting or stretching during sewing; however, with proper techniques and tools, you can sew mesh fabric successfully by hand or sewing machine. Here we explore two techniques for sewing mesh fabric as well as step-by-step instructions for each method of doing it.
Method 1: Sewing Mesh Fabric by Hand
Sewing mesh fabric by hand may seem daunting at first, but it can actually be an effective option for smaller projects or when joining mesh to another fabric type. Here's how you can sew mesh by hand:
Step 1: Prepare the Materials- Gather the following materials before you begin:
- Embroidery hoops or rings (optional but helpful for stabilizing the fabric)
- Ruler
- Marker or chalk for fabric marking
- Scissors or rotary cutter
- Self-healing mat
- Pins
- Needle with a sharp point
- Polyester thread
Step 2: Preparing the Mesh Fabric- If possible, prewash the mesh fabric to increase flexibility and enable easier ironing - this step will make working with it simpler.
Step 3: Mark and Cut the Fabric- To mark and cut mesh fabric accurately, use a ruler with a fabric marker or chalk to draw any patterns or shapes you desire on it. Be cautious not to cut multiple-layered cuts as the fabric could slip and slide out.
Step 4: Pin the Edges- To secure mesh fabric when sewing it together, pin its edges along each section you wish to join together. It may slip during stitching, so pinning will keep it secure during this step and help maintain an exact gap between pins to avoid stitching incorrect outlines.
Step 5: Sewing the Mesh Fabric- When sewing mesh fabric, choose an appropriate needle with a fine point that glides easily through it. Start slowly stitching a little at the first pause after every few stitches for inspection, avoiding excessive basting as this could stretch it too much and prevent the stretching of the fabric.
Step 6: Join the seams- To join seams successfully, consider an overlocking stitch. Beginners should mark out their lines before beginning sewing; an overlocking stitch may prove more adaptable than a zigzag stitch. When sewing mesh fabric manually, use a shorter stitch length to reach mesh holes easily.
Depending on the project, you can use bias binding, fold-over elastic, or ribbons to provide a neat and enclosed edge. However, mesh fabric does not fray like other fibers, so leaving the edge as it is can also be an option.
Enhance your knowledge: 101 Guide to What is Mesh Fabric
Method 2: Sew Mesh Fabric with a Sewing Machine
Using a sewing machine to sew mesh fabric can offer faster and more precise results. Here's how it's done:
Step 1: Gather the Materials- Before you start sewing, make sure you have the following materials:
- Ruler
- Erasable marker or chalk for fabric marking
- Scissors or rotary cutter
- Self-healing mat
- Fine pins
- Ballpoint needle (70/10) or universal needle (70/10-80/12)
- Polyester thread
- Tissue paper or fabric stabilizer
- Sewing machine
Step 2: Prepare the Mesh Fabric- Pre-wash the fabric to make your sewing process more comfortable.
Step 3: Set Up the Sewing Machine- To begin sewing on mesh fabric, insert either a ballpoint needle (70/10) or a universal needle (70/10-80/12). Select an appropriate needle size based on both fabric type and thread type for optimal results; polyester thread works great, although thread type might change depending on which mesh fabric it's sewn with.
Step 4: Sewing the Mesh Fabric- To sew mesh fabric, place it under the pressure foot of a sewing machine. If necessary, tissue paper or fabric stabilizer may help stop the fabric from getting caught over feed dogs and can also act as an additional security blanket beneath its fabric layers.
If you are joining mesh fabric to another type of fabric, ensure it remains on top during sewing. Any attempts at pulling may cause puckers or gather in your seam.
Choose a stitch technique with a short stitch length, such as a narrow zigzag that is the best stitch for mesh fabric. Guide the fabric steadily through the machine without pausing or pulling it excessively. You can pause in between to inspect your work, but be careful not to move or pull the fabric during this process.
Remember that you can Sew Mesh Fabric with a Sewing Machine, and Sewing Mesh Fabric by Hand are also possible, so you can choose according to your ease and preference.
Faqs
How do you hem mesh fabric by hand?
Hand hemming mesh fabric requires folding the edge twice and stitching using an even, small running stitch, ensuring only the outermost layer of mesh fabric is caught by stitches.
Can you sew a mesh fabric by hand?
Yes, mesh fabric can be sewn by hand using fine needles and lightweight thread with small, even stitches to avoid stretching or tearing the mesh fabric.
Can you sew mesh with a regular sewing machine?
Yes, sewing mesh with a standard sewing machine is possible using fine needles with either zigzag stitches or stretch stitch settings on them - be sure to lower tension and press foot pressure so as to keep the mesh from getting caught or pulled by chance!
How do you sew embroidered mesh fabric?
When sewing embroidered mesh fabric, use a fine needle with lightweight thread to carefully follow its embroidery design. Sew slowly and steadily for best results; a stabilizer may provide support while stitching.