Why ByAnnie's Natural Mesh Makes Sewing Easier

Mesh fabric is great for projects where you want visibility—like bag pockets, shoe bags, or garment overlays—but it can be tricky to sew. ByAnnie's Natural Mesh Fabric solves that with a special coating that makes the mesh less slippery and easier to control under your presser foot. It's lightweight, has a bit of stretch, and remains soft and pliable for a variety of uses.

Key Specifications at a Glance

  • ByAnnie's Mesh Fabric 18" x 54" Natural: Size: 18" x 54". Fiber Content: 100% polyester. Knowing the exact dimensions helps you plan how many cuts you need for your project. Polyester mesh is durable and holds its shape.

    ByAnnie's Mesh Fabric 18" x 54" Natural

    ByAnnie's Mesh Fabric 18" x 54" Natural

  • ByAnnie's Mesh Fabric 18" x 54" Natural: Recommended Needle: 80/12 ballpoint or universal needle. Recommended Thread: 40 wt polyester thread. Stitch length: 2mm or 2.5mm. Using the right needle and thread prevents skipped stitches and fabric damage. A shorter stitch length gives clean seams on mesh.

  • ByAnnie's Mesh Fabric 18" x 54" Natural: Ironing: Use a medium to high setting. Mesh can melt if you use too high a heat. Medium to high is safe for polyester mesh when pressing seams.

Machine Setup for Sewing Mesh

Start with a standard presser foot and an 80/12 ballpoint or universal needle. Use 40 wt polyester thread and set your stitch length to 2mm or 2.5mm. A shorter stitch length helps the mesh feed evenly and reduces puckering. Because the mesh is coated to be less slippery, you won't need a walking foot or special feed system—just a consistent speed.

Test your stitch on a scrap piece first to confirm tension and stitch quality. Adjust the presser foot pressure if your machine allows it; lighter pressure can help the mesh feed without stretching.

Finishing Edges: Binding and Fold-Over Elastic

Mesh edges need a finish to prevent fraying and give a clean look. The easiest method is to bind the edges with your favorite fabric. Cut bias strips or straight-grain binding and sew it around the raw edges of the mesh.

For extra stretch and a sporty finish, try fold-over elastic. It's easy to apply because you simply wrap it over the edge and stitch. This works especially well for bag pockets or garment openings where you want the mesh to flex.

Project Ideas for 1/2 Yard Mesh Cuts

The 18" x 54" size is perfect for small to medium projects. Use it for bag pockets where you want to see contents, like a clear front pocket on a tote or a see-through pouch. It also works for garment details such as sporty mesh panels, or utility items like laundry bags and beach totes.

Because the mesh is lightweight and soft, it pairs well with cotton, canvas, or cork. Keep in mind that the mesh has a bit of stretch, so handle it gently when pinning and sewing to avoid distortion.