Spandex Stretch Fabric
This 220GSM polyester spandex butterfly mesh is engineered specifically as a high-performance lining fabric for sportswear.
Share:
PRODUCT OVERVIEW
This 220GSM polyester spandex butterfly mesh is engineered specifically as a high-performance lining fabric for sportswear. Unlike lightweight meshes (80-150GSM) that offer minimal structure, this 220GSM variant provides substantial body and durability while maintaining the distinct butterfly-shaped aperture pattern for targeted breathability. The mesh construction combines 92% polyester for strength and quick drying with 8% spandex for 2-way or 4-way stretch, allowing the lining to move seamlessly with the outer garment. The butterfly apertures are arranged in staggered rows, creating open channels that prevent heat and sweat buildup next to the skin. At 220GSM, the fabric achieves a unique balance: it is opaque enough to serve as a reliable modesty liner, yet open enough to provide superior airflow. The raised butterfly edges also create a gentle spacer effect, reducing direct skin-to-liner contact and minimizing chafing during high-intensity activities. This makes it ideal for built-in short liners in running shorts, bra cup pockets, vented linings in soccer jerseys, and removable padded liners in swimwear.
TECHNICAL PARAMETERS
|
Parameter |
Specification |
|
Composition |
93.5% Polyester, 6.5% Spandex |
|
Weight |
220 GSM ± 5% (grams per square meter) |
|
Width |
154 cm cuttable |
|
Pattern |
Butterfly mesh – staggered butterfly-shaped apertures |
|
Stretch Type |
2-way stretch (width direction) / mechanical + elastane |
|
Set After Stretch |
≤ 5% permanent set (ASTM D2594) |
|
Moisture Wicking |
Wetting time ≤ 3 seconds (AATCC 79) |
|
Dimensional Stability |
≤ 3% shrinkage after 5 washes (40°C) |
KEY ADVANTAGES
01
220GSM – the ideal lining weight
Heavy enough to provide modesty and durability, light enough to not add bulk. At 6.5 oz/yd², this mesh feels substantial in hand but remains breathable. For comparison: typical polyester lining mesh is 80-140GSM (too flimsy, see-through, tears easily). Our 220GSM version lasts 3-4x longer in abrasion testing.
02
Butterfly apertures for ventilation without exposure
The unique butterfly shape creates large open areas (35-40% open space) for maximum airflow, while the overlapping pattern prevents direct line-of-sight through the fabric. Athletes stay cool without worrying about modesty. This is critical for white or light-color uniform liners.
03
Spacer effect reduces chafing
The raised edges of each butterfly aperture lift the fabric slightly off the skin, creating micro air gaps. This reduces friction during repetitive motion (running, cycling, squats). Standard flat liners often cause irritation along seam lines; the butterfly mesh minimizes contact surface by approximately 30-40%.
04
Quick dry and moisture wicking
100% polyester content (with spandex) allows sweat to pass through and evaporate rapidly. The open aperture structure accelerates drying to under 10 minutes. For built-in short liners, this means no wet cling after a workout.
05
Proven sportswear lining applications
Currently used in: men‘s and women’s running shorts (built-in compression liner), basketball shorts (vented lining that doesn‘t show through), soccer jersey linings (heat escape zones under arms and back), swimsuit bra cup pockets (holds padding securely, dries fast), tennis skirts (attached inner short liner), and athletic leggings with mesh lumbar panels.
PROVEN SPORTSWEAR LINING APPLICATIONS
Men‘s And Women’s Running Shorts (Built-In Compression Liner)
Basketball Shorts (Vented Lining That Doesn‘t Show Through)
Soccer Jersey Linings (Heat Escape Zones Under Arms And Back)
Swimsuit Bra Cup Pockets (Holds Padding Securely, Dries Fast)
Tennis Skirts (Attached Inner Short Liner)
Athletic Leggings With Mesh Lumbar Panels
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1
220GSM seems heavy for a mesh. Doesn’t that defeat the purpose of breathability?
Not at all. Traditional lightweight meshes (80-140GSM) have very thin yarns and large holes – they breathe well but offer no modesty, tear easily, and provide no cushioning. The 220GSM fabric uses thicker, stronger yarns and a denser base, while the butterfly apertures still deliver 35-40% open space. Air permeability measured at ≥600 mm/s, which is 5-6x higher than a typical 200GSM single jersey. So you get durability and opacity without sacrificing airflow.
2
What makes the “butterfly” pattern different from standard hexagonal or diamond mesh?
The butterfly shape has two key advantages for linings. First, the apertures are oriented in staggered rows, which prevents straight-line see-through. With hexagonal mesh, you can often see skin directly through the holes. With butterfly mesh, the overlapping wings block diagonal views. Second, the raised wing edges create the spacer effect mentioned earlier – they act like tiny springs, keeping the main fabric surface slightly away from skin, reducing sweat-induced cling and chafing.
3
Can this 220GSM butterfly mesh be used as an outer fabric rather than a lining?
Yes, but with limitations. The open aperture area (35-40%) means it is not suitable for outerwear in cold or windy conditions. However, it works well as a fashion overlay for crop tops, beach cover-ups, or performance vests where ventilation is a design feature. For sportswear, most customers use it strictly as a lining because the pattern provides modesty from the inside out. If used as an outer layer, we recommend pairing with a solid base layer.
4
How does the spandex content affect the lining‘s performance and care?
The 8% spandex provides 45-55% stretch in the width direction, allowing the lining to expand with the outer garment during movement. Without spandex, the mesh would feel stiff and might restrict range of motion. For care: machine wash cold (30°C), avoid fabric softeners (they coat the mesh openings and reduce breathability), tumble dry low or line dry. Spandex will degrade above 60°C, so never iron or use hot water. Under proper care, the fabric retains stretch and recovery for 80+ wash cycles.
5
Is this fabric suitable for direct skin contact? Does it feel scratchy?
The fabric is designed for next-to-skin linings. The polyester yarns are fine denier (75D/72F), and the open structure reduces surface contact. In wearer trials, 94% of testers rated it as “comfortable” or “very comfortable” for 60-minute high-intensity runs. However, individuals with extremely sensitive skin may prefer a softer plain knit lining. The butterfly mesh‘s raised edges are not sharp; they feel similar to a mild textured fabric. We recommend ordering a sample swatch to test personal comfort.
6
Can this butterfly mesh be dyed in custom team colors or printed?
Yes, custom colors are available via Pantone matching (MOQ 500 kg per color). The fabric is piece-dyed with high-temperature dispersed dyes. Screen printing is possible on the mesh, but fine details may be lost due to the open apertures – we recommend solid color panels or heat transfer vinyl for logos.
READY TO START A PROJECT?
Filling in your phone and email information will help us get in touch with you in a timely manner and solve your problem as soon as possible.
Get A Free Quote
RELATED PRODUCTS
As a core patented product independently developed by the company, water-based suede leather carries our dual pursuit of green technology and ultimate hand feel.
