Have you ever found yourself frustrated because of frayed deco mesh? Fraying of deco mesh is often used as an excuse for why some folks won’t use it. Regardless of what you may have heard, the truth is all deco mesh will fray. The key is to realize this and take steps to reduce it. Here I am sharing six tips to reduce deco mesh fraying in your designs.
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Buy Quality Deco Mesh
Deco mesh quality varies widely and the quality is NOT always related to the price. I often hear “not everyone can afford to buy the best quality. First, compare the actual cost. Over the years, some manufacturers have changed the size of the rolls to 6 yards from the standard 10 yards, making it appear to cost less. Look at the consistency of the weave. It should be even and tight. Feel the mesh if you can. A thin mesh will fray easier than a heavier threaded one.
Not sure where to find quality deco mesh? Be sure to read this blog post where I list some of my favorite online places that don’t require a wholesale license.
Avoid Exposure of Cut Mesh Edges
The cut edges are more prone to fraying, so I like to turn them under for protection. Most times, I fold it over twice. This way the edges are not as likely to catch on something like other mesh, ribbon or even your clothing.
Use a Rotary Cutter or Wood Burning Tool
A rotary cutter will give you a more even, crisp edge than scissors. Using a wood-burning tool to cut the mesh will lessen the fray even more, but it takes more time. Also, try to stay within the same thread row while cutting. For mesh flower wreaths, I strongly recommend using a wood-burning tool due to having more likelihood of fraying with smaller cuts of mesh.
Avoid Mesh Contact with Other Materials
Avoid the mesh brushing up against just about anything. Be sure to wear short sleeves or roll your sleeves up. Wearing an apron can also avoid the mesh from grabbing onto and ruining your clothes. Folding over the edges as explained earlier will help with this. If contacted, the mesh will attach to other mesh, ribbons and even your favorite sweater!
Limit Handling to Reduce Deco Mesh Fraying
Once the mesh is placed, try to handle it as little as possible. If I see a frayed edge, I try to trim with scissors at that time to make the edge more even. The last thing before I ship a mesh design, I check once more and trim as needed.
Coat the Edges with Sealant
I have never done this to help reduce mesh fray, but some coat the raw edges of mesh with Modge Podge, hair spray or other types of sealer. You can give this a try if you continue having a lot of fraying after following the above steps.
I hope these tips help! As always, practice makes perfect and the more you work with and get comfortable with deco mesh, the less fray you will experience.
I have several videos on my YouTube channel making a deco mesh wreath. I try to sprinkle tips and tricks about using mesh throughout the video. If you want to up your deco mesh wreath making game, I invite you to watch!
If you have any other tips I have left out, be sure to share in the comments below…
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