Lacrosse players fix mesh in the head of a stick for a variety of reasons. Some might prefer a different pocket when facing a particular opponent. Others might fix new mesh to play another position. Nylon mesh can deteriorate over time, causing rips or holes. In most cases, it's better to fix new mesh to the head, instead of trying to patch older mesh. Hard mesh pockets have a faster break-in and are not as susceptible to weather as softer mesh. Fixing mesh is not complicated. Lacrosse heads have specific holes for the strings that align with the mesh.
Preparation
Step 1
Place the lacrosse head on a clean table or bench with the pocket bulge facing down. Loosen the knots at each end of the shooting strings using needle-nose pliers. Pull the shooting strings out of the head and the mesh.
Step 2
Loosen the knots at the ends of the sidewall laces with the pliers. Note the weaving sequence in the sidewall strings before removing these. You notice the strings thread through successive holes of similar size at the sides of the head and tie off at holes near the upper sides of the head.
Step 3
Loosen the knots at the ends of the bottom-tie string. Note the weaving sequence and remove the string. Repeat this step and remove the top-tie string at the top of the head, making sure to note the weaving sequence. Discard the old mesh and strings.
Top-Tie Strings
Step 1
Stretch the hard mesh in all four directions. Fold the mesh across one of the short ends to make a course of double diamonds. Place the mesh inside the head with the double course against the top of the head.
Step 2
Double the new top-tie string by folding it at the middle. Tie an overhand knot at the fold. Insert the freed ends of the string in the first hole at one side of the head. Lace the top of the mesh to the top of the head by duplicating the weaving sequence of the old string.
Step 3
Tie a loose overhand knot in the string at the outside of the head. Push the knot against the head and pull the string tight. Trim the ends of the string 1/2 inch from the knot with scissors.
Sidewall and Bottom Strings
Step 1
Tie double overhand knots close to the end of a sidewall string. Lace one side of the mesh to the head, using the sequence noted when you removed the strings. Tie a double overhand knot against the outside of the head and trim the end with scissors.
Step 2
Repeat the previous step and lace the other side of the mesh to the other side of the head.
Step 3
Pull the bottom of the mesh over the lower face of the head. Form the pocket using a lacrosse ball or your fist that you press into the mesh. Fold the lower edge of the mesh at the point where it contacts the inside of the head to make a double course of diamonds.
Step 4
Tie an overhand knot at one end of the bottom string. Lace the double course of diamonds in the head using the sequence noted when you removed the old string. Tie an overhand knot tightly against the outside of the head. Trim the end of the bottom string 1/2 inch from the knot.
Shooting Strings
Step 1
Double one of the shooting strings by folding it at the middle of the string. Tie an overhand knot at the fold.
Step 2
Insert the free ends of the shooting string into one of the larger holes on the side of the head. Weave the string across the face of the mesh pocket and tie it off against the outside of the head with an overhand knot.
Step 3
Double another shooting string by folding it at the middle. Tie an overhand knot at the fold. Weave the string across the face of the pocket, starting at one of the remaining large holes at the side of the head. Tie the string off outside against the outside of the head with an overhand knot. Trim the shooting strings, if desired.
Tips and Warnings
- Refer to diagrams or lacrosse websites for other lacing patterns. Shooting strings in dark or complementary colors may improve your accuracy.
Things You'll Need
- Synthetic strings and hard mesh
- Needle-nose pliers
- Scissors
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