The Fabric

Fabrics used for models: Lycra, Lycra Tule, or Spandex Power Net, Trimco All-way Stretch, nylon hose, nylon mesh. Suggested alternatives: plastic netting such as used for laundry bags or to bag produce.

Unless otherwise indicated, the fabric used for large installations and shells was a Two-Way Stretch 100% Nylon made by Lillitex ( no longer available). Instead, Lycra or Spandex Power Net have been used successfully.

Knit fabrics have no warp or weft. Fabricated in running yardage of a certain width, a knit stretched lengthwise compresses the texture, and stretched sideways opens it up. Texture is a reliable clue in reading tension flows in a stretched membrane: it shows whether it is distributed equally throughout the membrane, engages only parts of the surface area, or creates pockets of acute stress.

Note: Though any material that stretches will do, only synthetic fibers retain the memory of their initial state, while knits made of natural fibers sag. Since presently there are no stretchable fabrics suitable for architectural installations, try to use available plastic or steel nets and meshes.

Properties of an ideal architectonic fabric or mesh:

1. The envisioned fabric or mesh stretches lengthwise and sideways, equally in both directions.
2. It stretches at least 50% in either direction.
3. Texture is the same on both sides, the mesh is run-proof.
4. It remains springy when stretched.
5. The mesh holds a coating of a chemical paste or cementitious materials applied to stiffen the membrane held in tension.
6. The base material or fiber is flame retardant.
7. The knit, net, or mesh facilitates joining of sections or panels; the method devised must stretch together with the panel.

There is currently no such fabric or mesh available that satisfies all these requirements.

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