Five Approaches to Giving Netting a Firm Structure
Whether you are working with the airy tulle beneath a tutu, turning crocheted yarn into a basket, or treating the thick mesh of a lacrosse goal, there are multiple techniques for making net material hold its shape.
By Jamie Hayes
Netting often needs to be made rigid for different purposes. Examples include the airy tulle that sits under a ballet tutu, a crocheted yarn net that is meant to become a basket, or the thick mesh used in a lacrosse goal that requires conditioning. Several techniques exist for making netting firm, and the right one depends on what you are making.
You can stiffen the net under a tutu in several ways.
Method One: Bottled Fabric Stiffener
Step 1
Transfer the solution into either a sealable bag or a glass bowl.
Step 2
Put the net in and let it soak up the solution completely.
Step 3
Take the net out and squeeze out any extra solution.
Step 4
Arrange it into the shape you want, if needed.
Step 5
Let it dry all the way through.
Method Two: Sugar and Water
Step 1
In a saucepan, combine 2 cups of sugar with 2 cups of water.
Step 2
Bring the mixture to a boil for 2 to 3 minutes, then let it cool until it is safe to touch.
Step 3
Leave your net submerged in the solution for roughly 15 minutes.
Step 4
Squeeze out the netting and form it into the desired shape.
Step 5
Let it dry for no less than 24 hours.
Method Three: White Glue
If your netting project cannot be immersed in liquid, you can use a mixture of white glue (such as Elmer’s) diluted with water.
Step 1
Thin white glue with water until it is easy to spread using a paintbrush.
Step 2
Drape your net over an object, such as a glass bowl, that will hold it in the shape you want.
Step 3
Coat the whole net with the diluted glue.
Step 4
Let it dry until the glue turns clear and firm.
Method Four: Spray Starch
You can find spray starch at most supermarkets. Choose the product with the strongest hold.
Step 1
Shape the netting as you like, then apply spray starch generously over it.
Step 2
Let the starch dry fully.
Step 3
Add more coats until the net reaches the firmness you want.
Method Five: Clear Acrylic Spray Paint
Clear acrylic spray paint can be used to stiffen netting.
Step 1
Form the netting into the shape you prefer, then spray it thoroughly with clear acrylic paint.
Step 2
Let it dry completely.
Step 3
Make touch-ups or add extra coats as necessary.
