A Basic Guide to Power Net & Bra Making
Bra-making is a super interesting process that most people don’t know anything about. However, it is one of the most satisfying things once you understand the structure of it, the function of its parts, and the best materials to use. I want to provide a short guide on power net and what it can do for you so you can understand how to use it.
What Is Power Net?
Power net is a firm mesh often used in the making of bras, shapewear, and other contouring garments. Power net is most common in the making of women’s wear, but it’s also occasionally used in contour garments for men because it’s a great material.
Contrary to stretch mesh, power net is dense and it allows for less movement. High-quality power net will retain its shape over time and it will contour the figure effectively while still allowing the skin to breathe thanks to the texture of the mesh.
What Is the Difference Between Power Net and Stretch Mesh?
- Power Net
Many sellers use the term power net and power mesh interchangeably, so it’s not always easy to know the difference. Especially not when you’re buying a it online. At Stitch Habit, I label anything over 170 gsm as power net. Most of the power net I use sits in the 220 gsm range.
I prefer using power net for bra making because it holds its shape over time and it’s a lot more supportive than other mesh fabrics. To me, that’s the main difference between power net and stretch mesh.
- Stretch Mesh
Stretch mesh, also known as power mesh, is a four-way stretch fabric that’s soft, comfortable, and easy to drape. It’s not as firm as power net, which means you won’t enjoy as much support if it’s used for bra making, waistbands, and other contour garments.
That’s not to say that stretch mesh is not a good material! I generally use it in garments that are not meant to provide much support, such as knickers, slips, and bralettes. It’s also a great material for sheer nightwear due to its amazing draping qualities. The weight and texture of stretch mesh can vary, but here at Stitch Habit, I would label something stretch mesh when it weighs 70 to 120 gsm.
So, to summarise, the difference between power net and stretch mesh is that the latter doesn’t provide support for a body contouring effect because it’s lighter and softer. Power net, on the other hand, is denser and it hugs the figure nicely to smooth it out.
How to Wash Power Net
You can wash garments made with power net in the washing machine and tumble dry them at low temperatures. To reduce the static, make sure to use a tumble dry sheet. Once dry, iron at a low temperature for a nice finish.
Check out our power nets, for your own lovely contouring pieces.