The World of Knitting
Knitting is a craft that utilizes yarn or thread and knitting needles to create a piece of fabric. Knitted fabrics are versatile and can be used with many different garments and accessories. They are also easy to stretch, which makes them comfortable and pliable. There are two types of knitted fabrics, which are categorized based on the way the stitches interlock. These two types are known as weft-knit and warp-knit fabrics.
Weft-Knit Fabrics
Weft-knit fabrics are made by interlocking loops of yarn that run in a horizontal direction. The loops are created in a spiral pattern around the needle. The weft-knitting process allows for a great deal of stretch, which is why weft-knit fabrics are commonly used for clothing that demands flexibility, such as gloves, leggings, and tights. Examples of weft-knit fabrics are jerseys, rib knits, and purl knits.
Warp-Knit Fabrics
Warp-knit fabrics are created using multiple knitting needles running lengthwise. The yarn is wrapped around each needle and then interlocked with the next needle. When compared to weft-knit fabrics, warp-knits are more stable, and don’t stretch as easily. They are commonly used in making items that require durability, such as shapewear, sportswear, and upholstery. Examples of warp-knit fabrics include tricot, raschel, and power net.
The Differences Between Weft and Warp Knitting
When trying to differentiate between these two types of knitted fabrics, there are a few things to keep in mind. Weft-knit fabrics are commonly used for flexible clothing, while warp-knit fabrics are used for durable items. Weft-knit fabrics are more easily stretched, while warp-knit fabrics are stronger and less stretchy. Additionally, weft-knit fabrics allow for the creation of vertical stripes and patterns, while warp-knit fabrics are mostly solid colored.
Applications of Knitted Fabrics
Weft and warp knitting are both used in various industries. For instance, weft-knit fabrics are used in the fashion industry for producing garments like t-shirts, socks, and jerseys. They can also be used in home textiles, such as blankets and curtains as well as accessories like scarfs. Warp-knit fabrics are commonly used in automobile and interior furnishings industries to make curtains, wallpaper as well as covers for airplane seats.
Knitted Fabrics Stretch
Knitted fabrics are great for making comfortable and flexible garments and accessories since they are stretchy by nature. The flexibility in knitted fabrics comes from the construction itself – the knit structure allows the fabric to accommodate stretch in any direction. This is an advantage over woven fabrics, which can only stretch along the grain line.
Care of Knitted Fabrics
Proper care is important if you want to extend the life of your knitted garments. It’s recommended to wash knit clothing in cold water, using mild detergents, and then tumble dry on low heat. To keep knitwear from stretching and losing its shape over time, it should be stored in a flat or folded form. For wool or cashmere knitwear, it’s best to ward off moths by storing these items with lavender sachets or cedar blocks.
Final Thoughts
Knitted fabrics are versatile and stretchy and come in two main types, weft-knit, and warp-knit. Weft-knit fabrics are commonly used in clothing, while warp-knit fabrics are known for their durability. Both types have many applications in different industries and can be taken care of by following a few simple guidelines.