Fabric for lightweight breathable pouch?

**jofish** · 03-08-2011, 14:34

I'm looking to make a pouch that I can use for both hanging from my hammock's ridgeline as well as attaching to the outside of my backpack (additional storage). I'm looking for a lightweight fabric that will breathe well.

I was thinking of using a lightweight mesh fabric since it will obviously allow air in and you could see the contents inside such a pouch. I am worried, however, that if the mesh is too fine that it won't allow water to escape easily. Or perhaps it would be better to go with a lightweight laundry bag sort of mesh? My worry there is that it would significantly heavier. Any recommendations on a good fabric to use?

**lori** · 03-08-2011, 15:23

You can get mosquito netting of several degrees of weave at Outdoor Wilderness Fabrics, Seattle Fabrics, Thru-Hiker, Quest, etc. - I made a head-and-shoulders bugnet and had plenty left to make a bunch of little ditty sacks out of.

Or check the bargain bin at local fabric stores. Tulle or some of the light synthetics might be a good choice and also be cheap. They should also have the larger gauge bugnetting.

**jofish** · 03-08-2011, 23:11

I was hoping for something a little more porous than most of the mosquito netting that I've seen on any of the sites you listed. I know that my netting from Thru-Hiker will hold in some condensation when used as a bug net. Maybe that's the best I can do, but I was wondering if someone might have a suggestion for a super-awesome material/source that I'm not familiar with.

**lori** · 03-08-2011, 23:55

Did you notice the poly mesh at Quest?

http://www.questoutfitters.com/mesh_...Mesh%20Fabrics

That's similar to the stuff you find on the breathable backpanels on backpacks.

WV · 03-09-2011, 08:05

Two thoughts:
1) Ask Kay at Quest Outfitters what she suggests. They have a number of different kinds of mesh, and knowing your specific needs for weight, strength, and porosity will help. Also, ordering a swatch set that has the types of mesh you're interested in would be a good idea. Kay might make up a set with more mesh examples for you, too. They ship very fast.
2) A bag for the ridgeline and the outside of your pack sounds like two different needs, especially with regard to porosity. When there's a likelihood of condensation a waterproof ridgeline bag will keep the contents dry.