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Net (textile)

Textile in which the warp and weft yarns are looped or knotted at their intersections

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  • 2 chapters

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Through Textile and Yarn

Uses

People use net for many different purposes.

Fishing

Netting is one of the key components to fishing in mass quantities. This textile is used because of its sturdy yet flexible origin, which can carry weight yet, still be lightweight and compactable. Fishermen use netting when trawling, because it is sturdy enough to carry large amounts of weight as fish are trapped, pulled, then lifted out of water. Oftentimes, the filaments that make up the yarn are coated with wax or plastic. This coating adds a waterproof component to the textile that provides even more reliability.

Fashion

Netting has been used in fashion for centuries. Tulle is a form of netting that is made of small-gauge thread, netted in a hexagonal pattern with small openings, and frequently starched to provide body or stiffness. It is typically used for veils. In the West, a white tulle veil is commonly worn over the head and face, with a bridal gown. Tulle is also used to form the skirt of the traditional ballet tutu, to provide body and volume, without adding significant weight.

Medicine

Net is also used in medical practices to provide fabric insulation and wrapping under an industry standard sling. In the medical practice, netting provides cushion and protection, when used in layers, but still allows the skin to breathe under the fabric. Depending on what the netting is being used for, a different wax or plastic coating can be applied in order to cover the filaments that make up the yarn. Filaments can be made from synthetic or natural fibres, depending on the end use of the fabric itself.

Other uses

Net is commonly used in camping tents. Air can easily pass through the holes, which allows breathability that does not trap bacteria, and remains impermeable to pests and insects. Netting is often used for luggage bags to create transparent, breathable compartments that allow people to store items. Netting has many similar components to mesh, as they both allow air to pass through easily, and share a lot of the same uses. Bigger woven knits have varying different uses, and smaller, tighter woven knits are varied as well.

A related function of netting is as a means to allow airflow while excluding mosquitoes and other airborne vermin.

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