Mastering the Art of Sewing: How To Seamlessly Work with Mesh Material

Sewing is a timeless skill that has been practiced for centuries. From creating handmade garments to repairing cherished items, sewing offers endless possibilities for creativity and practicality. However, sewing with different types of materials can present its own set of challenges. One such material is mesh, known for its delicate and sometimes tricky nature. If you’ve ever struggled with sewing mesh material, fear not! In this article, we will guide you through the process of how to sew mesh material with ease and precision. So grab your needles and thread, and let’s dive into the world of sewing with mesh!

Sewing is a skill that allows you to create a wide variety of items, from garments and accessories to home decor and crafts. One type of fabric that you may come across in your sewing projects is mesh material. Mesh is a loosely woven fabric with small holes, making it lightweight and breathable. It’s commonly used for sports clothing, lingerie, and even window screens. However, working with mesh can be intimidating for beginners as it can easily fray or stretch out of shape while sewing. In this guide, we will go through the steps on how to sew mesh material to help you achieve professional-looking results with ease.

What You Will Need

Before we dive into the steps of sewing mesh material, let’s have a quick look at the supplies you will need:

Mesh fabric
Matching thread
Sharp scissors or rotary cutter
Sewing machine with a ballpoint needle or serger
Pins or clips
Seam ripper (optional)
Iron and ironing board (optional)
Tissue paper or stabilizer (optional)

Choosing the Right Needle and Thread

The first step in sewing mesh material is selecting the right needle and thread. Since the holes in mesh are tiny, using a regular sewing needle may cause damage to the fabric by creating large holes or pulling on the threads. A ballpoint needle or stretch needle will glide smoothly through the holes without causing any damage. It’s also essential to use high-quality polyester thread as it has some stretch compared to cotton thread that can break easily while working with mesh.

Cutting Out Your Fabric

Mesh material can be a bit difficult to cut accurately when pinned, so it’s essential to use either clips or weights. Place your pattern on top of the fabric and hold it in place with clips or place weights around the edges. This method reduces the risk of any shifting that may occur while cutting, resulting in more precise pieces.

If you’re using a rotary cutter, make sure to use a self-healing mat underneath to protect your work surface and prevent the mesh from slipping. Scissors should be sharp, and you may want to consider using pinking shears or an overlock stitch along the edges of your fabric pieces to prevent fraying.

Sewing Techniques for Mesh Fabric

When sewing with mesh, one of the most significant challenges is keeping it from slipping out of place while stitching. Here are two techniques that can help:

Use tissue paper or stabilizer underneath your fabric when stitching seams. This will provide stability and prevent the mesh from stretching out.
You can also try using a walking foot on your sewing machine if possible. This type of presser foot helps feed both layers of fabric evenly through the machine without bunching.

Seam Finishes for Mesh Fabric

To achieve professional-looking results while sewing with mesh, you need to finish your seams correctly. Here are some methods for handling different seam finishes:

Zigzag Stitch: The easiest way to finish seams is by using a zigzag stitch along the raw edges. It helps keep the fibers in place and prevents fraying.
Serged Seams: A serger is perfect for finishing off seams quickly and efficiently. It sews, trims, and finishes raw edges simultaneously in one simple step.
French Seams: For a more polished look, you can use a French seam, which encloses the raw edges within the seam. This method is frequently used for lingerie and delicate garments.

Some Tips and Tricks

To make your sewing experience with mesh more manageable, here are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind:

Test your stitch length on a scrap piece of mesh before sewing on your actual project. The right stitch length will depend on the thickness of your fabric but generally ranges from 2.5-3mm. This length prevents large holes from forming while giving enough room for the fabric to stretch.
As mesh is light in weight, it’s important to avoid using heavy or bulky seams that will weigh down the fabric.
If possible, avoid backstitching at the beginning and end of seams. Instead, leave long thread tails and secure them manually using a needle or tying them in a knot to prevent puckering on the fabric.
If you do make a mistake or need to unpick stitches, try using a seam ripper along with tissue paper underneath for extra stability.

What is Mesh Material?

Mesh material, also known as mesh fabric, is a type of lightweight, breathable fabric that is made up of a network of closely spaced holes or pores. These holes are created by either knitting or weaving different types of yarns together, resulting in a unique and durable textile.

Mesh materials are commonly used in the fashion industry for various applications such as clothing, accessories, and activewear. They are also widely used in industries such as sports and outdoor activities due to their moisture-wicking and quick-drying properties.

Why Use Mesh Material?

Mesh material offers numerous benefits which make it a popular choice in various industries. Firstly, its lightweight construction allows for more airflow, making it an ideal choice for hot weather conditions. Additionally, its moisture-wicking properties help to keep the body cool and dry during physical activities.

Moreover, mesh material is incredibly durable and can withstand wear and tear better than other fabrics. It is also easy to care for and can be machine washed without worry of shrinking or damage.

Another advantage of using mesh material is its versatility. It comes in a variety of colors and patterns, making it suitable for various design aesthetics. Its stretchability also makes it a great choice for form-fitting garments.

Tools Needed for Sewing with Mesh Material

Before starting your sewing project with mesh material, there are some essential tools you will need:

– Sharp scissors: Since mesh material has an open weave structure, it can easily snag or unravel if cut with dull scissors. Make sure to use sharp scissors specifically designed for cutting fabrics.
– Pins/tape: Pins made specifically for delicate fabrics like mesh will prevent snagging and damage while sewing.
– Ballpoint needle: Using a ballpoint needle prevents holes in the fabric when sewing on stretchy/mesh materials.
– Clear thread: Instead of using traditional thread, opt for a clear thread specifically made for mesh materials. This helps to avoid any visible stitching on the fabric.
– Sewing machine: While sewing by hand is possible, a sewing machine will save time and create cleaner lines.
– Steam iron: This will help to set the stitches and remove any creases or wrinkles.

Preparing the Mesh Material Before Sewing

Before starting your sewing project, it is crucial to prepare the mesh fabric properly. Begin by gently washing the fabric with a mild detergent and warm water. Make sure not to wring or twist the material, as this may damage the delicate fibers.

Once washed, lay the fabric on a flat surface to air dry. You can use weights on the edges of the fabric to help it lay flat and prevent curling.

After drying, run your fingers through the fabric to straighten out any remaining wrinkles or creases. You can also use a steam iron on low heat to smooth out any stubborn creases.

Sewing Techniques for Mesh Material

1. Cutting

When working with mesh material, it is essential to cut as accurately as possible to avoid any jagged edges or snags in the material. Use sharp scissors or a rotary cutter with a fresh blade for clean and precise cuts.

If using paper patterns, make sure they are taped completely onto the mesh fabric before cutting. This prevents shifting during cutting and ensures accurate measurements.

2. Basting

Basting is a temporary stitch used to hold fabric pieces together before permanent stitching. When sewing with mesh material, basting is crucial as it helps to prevent shifting of layers while sewing.

Use clear thread and a long basting stitch when joining two layers of mesh material together. Make sure not to pull too tightly while basting as this may distort the shape of your garment.

3. Using a Ballpoint Needle

As mentioned earlier, using a ballpoint needle is crucial when sewing with mesh fabric. The rounded tip of the needle glides between the mesh holes, preventing any damage to the material.

4. Finishing Edges

To prevent fraying and unraveling of edges, it is essential to finish raw edges on mesh material. You can use an overlocker or a small zigzag stitch to finish raw edges.

Common Mistakes When Sewing with Mesh Material

While sewing with mesh material may seem intimidating at first, avoiding these common mistakes will make your project more manageable:

– Not using sharp scissors: As mentioned earlier, dull scissors can cause snags and damage to the fabric.
– Not basting before stitching: Basting helps prevent shifting of layers while sewing, resulting in neat and accurate stitching.
– Not using a ballpoint needle: Using the wrong type of needle can cause visible holes in the fabric.
– Pulling too much while basting/stitching: This can distort the shape of your garment and cause puckering or uneven stitches.
– Skipping finished edges: Finishing raw edges prevents fraying and ensures a clean and professional look to your final product

1. What is mesh material?
Mesh material is a lightweight and breathable fabric made of either synthetic or natural fibers, with a porous and open weave pattern. It is commonly used in clothing, accessories, and home decor items.

2. What type of needle should I use when sewing with mesh material?
It is recommended to use a ballpoint or stretch needle when sewing with mesh material. These types of needles have rounded tips that can easily glide through the holes in the fabric without tearing or snagging.

3. How do I prevent puckering when sewing on mesh material?
Puckering can occur when sewing with mesh material due to its lightweight and slippery nature. To prevent this, try using tissue paper on top of the fabric while sewing. This will provide some stability and prevent the fabric from shifting.

4. Is there a specific type of thread I should use when working with mesh material?
It is best to use a fine thread, such as polyester or nylon, when sewing on mesh material. These types of threads are strong and thin, which will not add bulk to your seams but still provide enough strength for your project.

5. How do I finish raw edges on mesh material?
To finish raw edges on mesh material, you can either use a serger or sew a zigzag stitch along the edge. You can also use fabric glue or fusible tape to seal the edges if you do not have access to a serger.

6. Can I iron mesh material?
It is not recommended to iron mesh material directly as it can melt or warp under high heat. Instead, you can place a thin towel or cloth over the fabric and use a low heat setting to gently press it if needed. Avoid steam as it can cause distortion of the fabric’s open weave pattern.

In conclusion, learning how to sew with mesh material can open up a world of possibilities in terms of creativity and design. While it may seem intimidating at first, mastering the techniques of sewing with mesh can greatly enhance your sewing skills and expand your repertoire of projects.

Throughout this guide, we have outlined step-by-step instructions on how to properly handle and sew with mesh material, as well as provided tips on choosing the right tools and techniques for best results. We have also discussed the dos and don’ts when working with this delicate fabric to avoid common mistakes.

In summary, here are the key takeaways when it comes to sewing with mesh material:

1. Always use the right tools: Investing in specialized tools such as a rotary cutter, walking foot, and tailor’s ham will make working with mesh much easier.

2. Take time to prepare: Properly prepping your fabric before sewing will ensure better results and prevent snagging or puckering.

3. Use the right technique: Depending on the type of project you are working on, there are different techniques for sewing mesh such as using a zigzag stitch or French seams.

4. Practice makes perfect: Sewing with mesh may require some trial and error at first, but with practice, you will become more confident and comfortable

Author Profile

Jill Nammar

My name is Jill but everyone calls me Jilly. I design original cross stitch patterns inspired by vintage French and flowers. Roses are my muse.
I hope you have a cozy time stitching my patterns. Put the kettle on, relax and create a heartwarming piece of hand-embroidered art. Personalize your home and turn up the soulful charm with soulful stitchery.

My goal is to provide you with pretty patterns that promote peaceful stitching. My wish is for you to discover the gentle beauty of hand-embroidery.My patterns have been featured around the web and in Homespun Magazine and Boston Magazine. I find my bliss in cross stitch.

From 2024, I have embarked on a new venture—writing an informative blog on the “Embroidery and Cross-Stitch” niche. This blog is an extension of my passion, where I share detailed posts and respond to queries related to embroidery and cross-stitching.

The blog covers a wide range of topics from beginner tips, pattern creation, historical insights, and the therapeutic benefits of stitching. My goal is to build a community where enthusiasts can learn, share, and grow in their embroidery skills, ensuring everyone can find their own bliss in cross-stitch just as I did.

Thank you to all my customers and readers who have supported Sew French. Your kind emails, photos of completed patterns, and continual encouragement fuel my dedication to this beautiful craft. Join me in stitching a world of beauty and peace, one pattern at a time.