Knit Fabric Selection
Knits are easy to sew and fit, require less pressing and care, and are
comfortable to wear. Knits range from casual sweatshirt fleece to
elegant stretch velvets and are available in a wide variety of fibers both
natural and synthetic and a combination of the two. Thedegree of stretch varies
from 20 to 35%. Select patterns which are designed for stretch knits only. These
patterns require fabric that stretches a specific amount and the pattern
envelope gives the degree of stretch
KNIT FABRICS TYPES
Double knit is a firm, medium to heavy weight fabricwhich has fine ribs
and usually looks the same on both sides. Because the fabric has minimal
stretch, patternsdesigned for woven fabric can also be used. Suitable for
skirts, pants, jackets and dresses.
Sweatshirt fleece has minimal stretch, flat vertical ribson right side
and a brushed soft surface on the wrongside. Suitable for sweatshirts, pants,
jackets, and other sporty garments.
Single knit and jersey are light to medium weight fabricswith flat
vertical ribs on the right side and dominanthorizontal lines on the wrong side.
Fabric stretches from
20 to 25% across the grain. Suitable for T-shirts, tops,dresses, pull-on pants,
shorts, skirts, and sleepwear.
Interlock is a light to medium weight fabric with a fine rib
on both sides. Fabric stretches 25 to 35% across thegrain. Suitable for tops,
dresses, pull-on pants, shorts,skirts, and sleepwear.
Velour and stretch velvet are available in various weights. Velour and
stretch velvet have a soft brushednap on the right side, velvet has a shinner
appearancethan velour. Fabric stretches 25 to 35% or more across the grain.
Suitable for tops, shirts, dresses, skirts, pull-on pants, and shorts and easy
jackets.
Sweater and textured novelty knits are available in avariety of
weights and textures. The degree of stretchvaries. These knits are suitable for
pull-over sweaters, cardigans, simple dresses and pull-on skirts.Two way stretch
fabrics are fabrics with Spandex/Lycraand have approximately 75% stretch.
Swimwear fabrics of Nylon / Lycra usually have the most stretch onlengthwise
grain, Cotton/Lycra has most stretchon crosswise grain and is suitable for
swimwear, active wear, dancewear, leotards and leggings.
Ribbing has approximately 100% crosswise stretch and has prominent
vertical ribs on both sides. This stretch makes it suitable for neckbands,
waistbands and cuffs.
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