What is open weave fabric?

If you're on the lookout for lightweight, breathable workwear, you may have seen 'open weave fabric' listed in the item's description. Unless you're a textile expert, you're probably unsure about what 'open weave' means. Well, if that describes you, you've come to the right place!

In this article, we'll discuss the different kinds of open weave fabric, their benefits, and explain why this type of fabric is so widely used in the working world.

What is open weave fabric?

In short, open weave fabric is any type of fabric with several holes. The method of weaving this type of fabric results in open spaces between each thread. Open weave fabrics have a comfortable texture, are lightweight, and provide great visibility. For these reasons, open weave fabric is an excellent choice for industries such as construction, forestry, landscaping, and manufacturing.

Types of open weave fabric

There's an enormous range of open weave fabric available on the market today. Some common types include:

- Burlap fabric
- Cheesecloth
- Mesh fabric
- Net fabric
- Gauze/scrim
- Filter cloth
- Cotton muslin

Cheesecloth is a popular fabric with a sheer finish. It is typically made from carded yarns. While this handy fabric was originally used for wrapping cheese, it is now commonly used to construct dresses and drapery. Cheesecloth is not suitable for use in most workplaces because of its delicate, flimsy nature.

Gauze or scrim is a durable but lightweight fabric used in canvas making and construction. Because of its translucent appearance, it is often used for making curtains, fencing, and banners. Scrim fabric will both transmit and reflect light. You'll also see scrim used as a reinforcement material in carbon-fibre or glass-fibre composites.

More about mesh

Of these seven fabric types, the one you're likely most familiar with is lightweight mesh. Mesh fabric is commonly used to craft workwear for the construction and manufacturing industries, thanks to its affordable cost, breathable nature, and functionality. Mesh provides full coverage and safety while allowing air to circulate around your body.

Micromesh shirts are generally made from nylon or polyester. To create mesh fabric, the synthetic fibres are woven in an open weave style, creating a flexible fabric similar to a net. Mesh has an enormous range of uses across multiple industries and is found in both fashion, workwear, and work gear. Mesh visors, for example, are commonly used as part of head protection. Mesh provides long-lasting and reliable protection from shrapnel without disturbing the worker's field of view.

Construction workers working in hot climates love the breathable, lightweight feel of mesh, and there's no need to compromise on safety or comfort. While mesh fabric is technically filled with holes, from a distance, it appears solid, so there's no need to worry about lost visibility. High-visibility (or hi-vis) workwear is available in a range of colours and styles, including short and long-sleeved polo shirts, vests, safety jackets, and more. To keep workers safe, mesh polo shirts generally come in fluoro colours such as orange, yellow and pink.

For extra coolness and comfort, workers may choose to invest in polyester micro mesh, which provides greater breathability.

Beyond workwear

The benefits of open-weave fabrics extend beyond workwear and clothing in general. You'll also find mesh or similar fabrics used to construct barriers, banners, and fencing, offering flexibility, adaptability, and visibility on construction sites. Polypropylene mesh barriers are designed to withstand harsh conditions and will maintain durability without compromising on flexibility and ease of use. Because of its flexible nature, open-weave barriers can be set up and removed without hassle.

You'll also find open-weave fabrics used to craft fencing and construction site banners. Made from thinly woven nylon and coated in PVC, mesh banners are long-lasting and incredibly wind-resistant. PVC is used because it contains more than 50% chlorine, which makes it more resistant to fire damage than other types of plastic.

Jaybro's printed mesh banners feature fire-retardant inhibitors to further protect them from fire damage. We design our open-weave fence fabric to allow wind to pass through gently without creating sail-like blowing and waving. These banners are compliant with all OH & S requirements and are reinforced with strip-welded banding.

Have another question?

If you're keen to learn more about the various uses and benefits of open weave fabric, why not get in touch with an expert? The team at Jaybro is here to help with all things construction, including micromesh high vis workwear, safety gear and protection, fencing, barriers, and more. Call us today on 1300 885 364 or email our friendly team.