NettingSource/Knitted Netting
Knitted Netting
Soft, conformable tubular mesh made from interlocked loops of polyethylene or polypropylene yarn. The preferred construction for surface protection, sleeving delicate goods, and any application where contact damage is a concern.
What is knitted netting?
Knitted netting is made by interlocking loops of polymer yarn — the same basic structure as a knitted fabric, but formed into a tubular or flat mesh. Because the loops are interlocked rather than fused, the mesh is flexible and conformable: it stretches to accommodate the product inside and returns to shape when removed.
This soft, pliable construction makes knitted netting the preferred choice for surface protection applications — wrapping auto parts, sleeving glass bottles, protecting painted components, and sleeving nursery plants. Pursell Manufacturing produces knitted netting in polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP), in custom diameters and roll lengths.
Properties of knitted netting
Construction
Interlocked loops of polymer yarn. Mesh geometry is flexible and adapts to the product shape.
Feel
Soft and pliable. Conforms to irregular surfaces without leaving marks or causing abrasion.
Conformability
Adapts to the shape of the product inside. Suitable for irregular shapes, curved surfaces, and delicate goods.
Materials
Polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP). PP produces a finer, softer mesh preferred for the most delicate applications.
Cut behavior
May run if cut, as loops are interlocked rather than fused. Cut ends should be secured for applications where unraveling is a concern.
Sizes
Custom diameters and roll lengths. All sizes made to order.
Common applications
Auto parts and components
Knitted mesh sleeves wrap painted panels, trim pieces, gears, and mechanical components to prevent scratches, dents, and surface damage during shipping and storage. The soft construction conforms to irregular shapes without leaving marks.
Wine and liquor bottles
Knitted mesh sleeves cushion glass bottles against impact and abrasion during transport. The soft construction conforms to the bottle shape without scratching labels or glass surfaces.
Nursery plants
Knitted PE and PP netting sleeves nursery stock, plug trays, and cut flowers for handling, storage, and transport. Pursell's SofNet (PE) and Gentlenet (PP) product lines are purpose-built for nursery applications.
Specialty foods
Knitted mesh is used for cheese, cured meats, and other perishables where shape retention and airflow are both required. The conformable sleeve holds product form without restricting ventilation.
Precision parts
Tubular knitted nets secure and separate gears, castings, and painted components during transit, offering oil and grease resistance and adapting to irregular shapes.
Retail multipackaging
Soft knitted netting bundles multiple retail items for promotional multipacks where a gentle, conformable sleeve is preferred over rigid extruded mesh.
Knitted vs. extruded netting
| Attribute | Knitted | Extruded |
|---|---|---|
| Construction | Interlocked loops of yarn; flexible geometry | Strands fused at every intersection; fixed geometry |
| Feel | Soft and pliable; conforms to irregular surfaces | Rigid and structured; holds shape under load |
| Cut behavior | May run if cut; loops are interlocked, not fused | Does not unravel when cut |
| Best for | Auto parts, bottles, delicate components, nursery plants | Produce bags, firewood, erosion control, heavy containment |
| Materials | Polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP) | LDPE, HDPE, polypropylene |
Specifications
Construction
Knitted — interlocked loops of polymer yarn
Materials
Polyethylene (PE) · Polypropylene (PP)
Product lines
SofNet (PE) · Gentlenet (PP) for nursery applications
Diameters
Custom — all sizes made to order
Roll lengths
Custom — specify at time of order
Colors
Contact Pursell for available colors
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between PE and PP knitted netting?
Polyethylene (PE) knitted netting is the more common general-purpose construction — soft, pliable, and suitable for a wide range of sleeving and protection applications. Polypropylene (PP) produces a finer, softer mesh and is the preferred choice for the most delicate applications, including cut flowers and delicate seedlings. Pursell's Gentlenet (PP) is specifically designed for nursery and floral use.
Will knitted netting scratch or damage the product surface?
No. The soft, pliable construction of knitted netting is specifically chosen for surface protection applications. It conforms to the product shape without applying point pressure, and the smooth yarn surface does not abrade painted, polished, or delicate surfaces.
How is knitted netting different from extruded netting?
Knitted netting is made from interlocked loops of yarn, producing a soft, conformable mesh. Extruded netting is formed by pushing molten polymer through a die, producing a rigid mesh with a fixed geometry. Knitted is preferred for surface protection and delicate goods; extruded is preferred for containment and produce packaging.
Is knitted netting available for nursery applications?
Yes. Pursell's SofNet (PE) and Gentlenet (PP) product lines are purpose-built knitted netting for nursery applications — sleeving plug trays, seedlings, and cut flowers. See the nursery netting page for full details on stock diameters and formats.
Where can I order knitted netting?
Knitted netting is available direct from Pursell Manufacturing in custom sizes. Contact a Pursell specialist to discuss your application, request samples, and get a quote.
Request a quote for knitted netting
All knitted netting is made to order in custom diameters, roll lengths, and materials. Contact a Pursell specialist to discuss your application.