How to Repair Mosquito Netting with Patches
Mosquito netting is a thin, semitransparent mesh made of either cotton or a synthetic material. It is draped over beds, tents and other outdoor areas to protect the inhabitants from mosquito bites. Over time and exposure to the outdoor elements, the mosquito netting will develop holes and tears that allow insects into the protected area. These holes and tears can be repaired with a patch that covers the hole and keeps mosquitoes out.
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Things You'll Need
- Tape measure
- Patch
- Scissors
- Needle
- Nylon thread
- Paper (optional)
- Masking tape (optional)
Instructions
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1
Look at the hole carefully and estimate the size of the opening. If you have a tape measure with you, measure the opening for accuracy.
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2
Locate the mosquito netting patch that came with the netting, or remove a patch from a tent repair kit.
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3
Hold the patch up to the hole in the mosquito netting and use scissors to trim it to 1/2 inch larger than the opening on each side.
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4
Thread a needle with 12 inches of nylon thread. Tie the end of the thread farthest from the needle into two or three knots.
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5
Place the patch over the hole in the mosquito netting. Push the needle through the bottom of the netting so that it comes out 1/4 inch from one edge of the patch. Pull the thread until it stops at the knotted end.
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6
Place the tip of the needle 1/8 to 1/4 inch below where it came out of the patch and push it downward through the patch. Pull the string through the patch and netting as far as you can.
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7
Position the needle tip on the underside of the patch approximately 1/8 to 1/4 inch from the previous hole and push it upward through the fabric. Continue this process until you have sewn all the way around the patch and it is securely attached to the mosquito netting. Cut off any excess thread with the scissors.
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Tips & Warnings
Purchase patches ahead of time and take them with you when you travel, since you never know when you will tear the netting.
For a temporary fix, cut a piece of paper that is 1/2 inch larger than the hole on each side and attach it to the inside of the netting using masking tape.
Instead of sewing the patch on, you can purchase special adhesives that are designed to repair tent holes. Spread a thin layer of adhesive around the edge of the patch and press it into place.
