The textile world has a wide structure that meets every need with different fabric types. Knit fabric, one of them, stands out with its use in many areas from daily life to industry. With its flexible structure, comfortable texture and ease of production, knit fabrics have a wide range of uses from underwear to outerwear.
In this article, we will give a comprehensive answer to the question “what is knit fabric” and provide detailed information about knit fabric types, properties and usage areas. In addition, we will emphasize the place of Marsala Textile, one of the pioneers of the sector, which produces and exports in this field, in the knit fabric sector.
Table of Contents
- What is Knit Fabric?
- Knit Fabric Properties
- Knit Fabric Types
- Marsala Textile and Fabric Production
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Conclusion
What is Knit Fabric?
Knit fabric is a type of flexible and soft fabric that is formed by interlacing yarns by forming loops. Thanks to this special production technique, the fabric can stretch in both horizontal and vertical directions; thus, it easily adapts to the body and offers high movement comfort during use.
Unlike woven fabrics, knit fabrics are characterized by their flexibility and form-fitting ability. This makes them ideal for a wide range of uses, from casual wear to sportswear, from underwear to baby textiles.
Knit fabrics, which are generally produced from yarns such as cotton, polyester, viscose and lycra, offer different textures, thickness, softness and breathability depending on the properties of the yarn used. For example, cotton knit fabrics offer a natural and air-permeable structure, while lycra knit fabrics provide more flexibility and form-holding advantage.
In addition, knit fabric is one of the most preferred fabric types in the apparel industry with its easy-to-process and sewable structure. It is very advantageous both aesthetically and functionally for brands that want to produce fashionable designs.
As a result, the answer to the question of what is knit fabric is not limited to a technical definition. It also means comfort, flexibility, ease of use and a wide range of products. With these aspects, knit fabric is one of the indispensable building blocks of the modern textile world.
Knit Fabric Properties
Knitted fabrics have many advantages arising from their production techniques and are widely preferred in the textile industry. The main features of this fabric type, which offers flexible, comfortable and versatile use, are as follows:
- High Elasticity: Thanks to its looped structure, knitted fabrics are very flexible. This structure allows the user to move more comfortably and provides a comfortable wearing experience, especially for people with active lifestyles.
- Breathability: Knitted fabrics with high air permeability allow the body to breathe. This feature reduces sweating and provides a fresh wear, especially in hot weather or during sports.
- Does Not Wrinkle Easily: Knitted fabrics wrinkle less than woven fabrics. In this way, the need for ironing is reduced in daily use and clothes can remain in a neat appearance for longer.
- Soft and Light Texture: Knitted fabrics produced with natural or synthetic yarns offer softness in contact with the skin. At the same time, thanks to its lightweight structure, it does not weigh you down and provides comfort throughout the day.
- Variety Suitable for Seasons: Since knitted fabrics can be produced in different thicknesses, they can be easily used in summer, winter or seasonal clothes. While thin knitted fabrics are preferred in summer, thick and woolen knits provide warmth in winter.
- Shaping and Ease of Sewing: It is easy to take form thanks to its flexible structure. With this feature, it offers a wide creative space to designers. It also provides convenience during sewing and offers practicality in garment production.
With these features, knitted fabrics are used safely in many product groups from sportswear to pajamas, from daily clothes to underwear. It is an ideal textile material both aesthetically and functionally.
Knit Fabric Types
Knitted fabrics are divided into different types depending on the production technique and intended use. They are generally analyzed in two main groups: single-plate knitted fabrics and double-plate knitted fabrics. Under these main groups, there are many sub-categories that diversify according to the area of use.
1. Single Plate Knit Fabric
Single-plate or single-ply knitted fabric is one of the most widely used types of knitted fabric. It has a light and thin structure. The surface is smooth and the back is slightly rough. This type of fabric is especially preferred for summer clothes:
- T-shirts,
- Tank tops,
- Pajama sets,
- Baby wear
It is widely used in products such as. Thanks to its flexible structure, it fits the body and provides comfort in daily use.
2. Double Plate Knit Fabric (Rib, Interlock, Double Jersey)
Double plate knitted fabrics are obtained by knitting two separate yarn layers mutually. Thanks to this structure, the fabric is tougher, thicker and more durable. Its elasticity is also high, but it retains its form better. Because of these properties:
- Sweatpants,
- Jackets,
- Cardigans,
- Winter outerwear products
etc. It is used in products that need to be more robust and warm. Interlock type stands out with its smooth and soft structure on both surfaces, while rib fabric has a longitudinal striped and high elasticity structure.
Knitted Fabric Subtypes
Some popular types of knitted fabrics under the main categories are as follows:
- Lycra Knitted Fabric
Lycra knitted fabric is obtained by knitting elastane (lycra) yarn with other yarns. This type of fabric:
- Fits the body perfectly
- Offers high stretch ability
- Preferred in sportswear, leggings and form-fitting dresses
Provides both freedom of movement and an aesthetic appearance.
- Steel Knitted Fabric
Steel knitted fabric is a special type of knitted fabric that provides flexibility in a certain form and uses different yarns on the outer surface. It takes its name from its “strong like steel” structure. Generally
- Used in winter clothes
- Used in products such as jackets, sweaters
- Provides thermal insulation, warm and thick
Is Steel Knitted Fabric Winter?
Yes, steel knitted fabric is generally used for winter clothing. Because
- It keeps warm with its thick structure
- It has windproof properties
- It offers elegance and functionality together
Circular Knitted Fabric
Circular knitting is the system in which the production machine works in a circular shape. Fabrics obtained with this system:
- Can have a seamless structure
- Continuous long fabrics can be produced
- Ideal for mass production
It is a method frequently used in the textile industry.
Marsala Textile and Fabric Production
Marsala Textile has a strong position in the textile sector both domestically and internationally with its years of experience. The company has modern production facilities and an expert staff. With these resources, it produces quality fabrics that adapt to the changing trends of fashion.
Offering a wide range of knitted fabrics produced with yarns such as cotton, polyester, viscose and lycra, Marsala Textile is preferred in many areas from daily wear to sports textiles. This is one of the factors that make it stand out in the sector.
Marsala Textile’s sustainability-oriented production policy is supported by the use of environmentally friendly materials and energy saving practices. This approach enables the company to respond to the needs of today. It also prepares the company to meet the needs of the future. Marsala Textile has a high production capacity. It also offers fast delivery assurance and a strong commitment to quality standards.
Thanks to these strengths, the company continues to create value. It stands out as a reliable business partner in the domestic market. It also maintains a strong presence in exports.
In short, Marsala Textile is one of the leading companies in the textile industry. It makes a difference with its innovative vision, quality-oriented production approach, and sustainability values.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is knitted fabric?
It is a type of fabric with a flexible and soft structure. This structure is obtained by knitting yarns into loops.
In which products is lycra knitted fabric used?
It is preferred in leggings, sportswear, underwear and form-fitting dresses. It offers the advantage of flexibility and form preservation.
Is steel knitted fabric used in summer?
No, it is generally preferred for winter products. This is because it has a thick, tough, and warm structure.
What is the difference between knitted fabric and knitted fabric?
Knitted fabric refers to products made by hand, using needles or crochet. In contrast, knitted fabrics are produced by industrial machines.
Do knitted fabrics need ironing?
Most knitted fabrics are wrinkle resistant and therefore do not require frequent ironing. It is especially preferred for travel clothes.
Do knitted fabrics stretch?
Yes, knitted fabrics are naturally stretchy thanks to the looped structure of the yarns. Flexibility increases even more when lycra is added.
In which seasons are knitted fabrics used?
Depending on the production thickness, they can be used for four seasons. Thin single jersey fabrics are suitable for summer. In contrast, thick steel or fleece fabrics are ideal for winter products.
Are knitted fabrics environmentally friendly?
When recycled yarns and sustainable production techniques are used, environmentally friendly options can be offered. Marsala Textile carries out active studies in this regard.
Conclusion
Knitted fabrics are among the most preferred fabric types in the textile industry. Their natural flexibility, softness, and ease of use make them highly popular. Thanks to its different sub-types such as lycra, single jersey it offers great versatility. As a result, it appeals to a wide range of uses.
These include sportswear, underwear, baby wear, and seasonal outerwear. This diversity offers ideal solutions in terms of both comfort and aesthetics.
Quality, correct yarn selection and production approach are of great importance in fabric production. At this point, Marsala Textile stands out with its experience in the sector. Its technological infrastructure and customer-oriented approach further strengthen its position. The company has a strong position both in the domestic market and in exports. It adds value to brands with its fashionable, functional, and high-quality fabric production.
In conclusion, the question of what a knitted fabric is is often approached from a technical perspective.
However, giving only a technical answer is not enough. Working with the right manufacturer is just as important as the fabric itself. You can visit Marsala Textile‘s website to find suitable solutions for your current textile needs. There, you can also examine its wide range of products.