How to Sew Embroidered Mesh Fabric

Finally, you have got embroidered mesh fabric you wanted to use for a long time. Since it is a net-like fabric and has a sheer appearance, you might be thinking now about how to sew it. We know it’s kind of difficult to sew mesh fabric, especially if it is an embroidered one. So, we have put together some tips to make the sewing process easier for you.

1. Pre-wash the mesh fabric

Though it is unlikely, any shrinkage issue that might occur can be addressed by pre-washing the fabric. While it is okay to machine wash mesh fabric to 60 degrees, tumble dry and cool iron, you should follow the instructions of the manufacturer regarding the washing, drying, and pressing the fabric to smooth out the wrinkles and handle the shrinkage issue.

2. Choose the right needle

Mesh fabric can be slippery. So, the choice of your needle should be right. You can use a ballpoint needle as it slides between the fibers rather than piercing them and this will also account for the slight stretch that is inherent with a mesh fabric. However, using a universal machine needle with a size 60 is also fine.

3. Choose the right matching thread

When sewing embroidered mesh fabric, always try to match the thread with the dominant color of the fabric as much as possible.

4. Know how to cut and mark the fabric

When cutting the embroidered mesh fabric, use very sharp scissors or a rotary cutter and mat. As this fabric is slippery and airy, use pattern weights or layer the fabric over tissue paper to keep it corralled and pin through the mesh into the tissue. Use pins with large flat tops so that they don’t slip out through the holes of the fabric.

5. Use the right stitches for sewing and finishing

The best thing about embroidered mesh fabric is that it doesn’t ravel. This means you don’t need edge finishing. However, you can do edge finishing if you want to do it for decorative purposes.

When joining seams, you should use a short-straight stitch or a narrow zigzag stitch for the best results. For that, try using a straight stitch foot as it has better gripping power. With a flat surface, it has just a single hole for the needle drop. It will allow you to keep the fabric taut so that you face fewer problems with the delicate mesh fabric getting pushed down into the throat plate.

6. Guide the mesh properly when sewing

If you are not using a straight-stitch foot or a roller foot, you can use a walking foot to help guide the mesh fabric and use a tear-away stabilizer or tissue paper under the seam that you can rip off afterward. This technique not only helps you guide the mesh but also protects it from getting trapped.

7. Take care of the unwanted stretch

If you can, then try to loosen the presser foot pressure on your machine or overlocker. It will prevent you from the unwanted stretch that develops during the sewing process. Besides, it will also stop the fabric from slipping as much, especially if you are sewing a double layer of mesh fabric.

8. Keep the pace of sewing steady

When sewing the mesh fabric, try to keep a steady pace and avoid pulling the fabric through the machine. It will prevent gathers or puckers.

Hope, these tips will help you sew the embroidered mesh fabric the way you want whether you are creating a designer dress or a craft project!