What is Mesh used for?
Polyester or nylon fabric mesh is generally used for creating casual garments and fashionwear, such as vests, dresses, and other items to be layered. Mesh is still incredibly popular in sportswear due to its breathability and being able to regulate temperature well. Polyester mesh is also used for creating the mesh screens used in screen-printing, due to its water-resistant properties and the miniature holes allowing ink to pass through the fabric.
Net mesh has a wider range of uses and is generally used to create parts of tents and camping gear. The breathable nature of the fabric means it’s perfect for regulating temperature in different weather conditions, making it ideal for camping equipment. It also prevents insects from being able to bite the skin, which is essential for certain types of camping.
One very common but perhaps surprising use for mesh is in the medical industry; it has become commonplace in surgical procedures and is primarily used to support organs or tissues. There are two main types of surgical mesh, temporary or permanent. A temporary sheet will dissolve in the body over time, whereas a permanent one will remain in the body. The loosely woven sheet of synthetic fibers is most commonly used in hernia surgery, or for prolapsed organs.
Properties of Different Mesh Fabrics
Mesh textiles may look and feel somewhat similar, but the type of fibers used to create them means they have very different properties.
Polyester Mesh
- Commonly used for athleticwear
- Breathable
- Can wick away moisture
- Water-resistant
Mesh Netting
- Can protect skin against insect bites and stings
- Used for camping equipment and gear
- Breathable
Tulle
- Fine mesh
- Used for wedding veils and evening gowns
- Very versatile
Power Mesh
- Used by 3D Space Mesh fabric companies to create outfits designed to smooth the body, e.g. control pants
- Used more in undergarments for women
- Breathable
- Similar to spandex, very stretchable
- Comfortable
- Porous and lightweight
- Used for garments, as well as beekeeping veils, screens in tents, laundry bags
- Long-lasting
- Evening dresses