Characteristics of knitted fabrics:

Knitted fabrics are created by intertwining yarns into continuous loops using knitting needles. They are broadly categorized into weft knitted fabrics and warp knitted fabrics.

Weft knitted fabric is initially woven horizontally, with a single continuous yarn being looped to form the fabric structure. While weft knitted fabrics are relatively easier to manufacture, they are more prone to edge unraveling during cutting.

In contrast, warp knitted fabric is typically produced lengthwise, featuring a zigzag organization that enables the formation of two or more continuous walls of loops. Compared to weft knitted fabrics, warp knitted fabrics generally exhibit a smoother and more compact texture, resulting in reduced elasticity and enhanced resistance to runs.

Flexibility: Knitted fabrics are constructed from yarns that are interlooped, providing excellent elasticity and stretch in multiple directions. This allows for a comfortable and form-fitting drape, making them suitable for active movements.

Soft Texture: Knitted garment fabrics are crafted from soft, low-twist yarns, resulting in a plush surface with a gentle hand feel. The loose and porous structure of the fabric reduces skin friction, enhancing comfort.

Moisture Management and Breathability: The interlooped construction of knitted fabrics creates numerous air pockets within the fabric, promoting effective heat retention and breathability. Additionally, natural fibers such as cotton possess inherent moisture-wicking properties, making knitted garments ideal for maintaining a cool and dry sensation, particularly in warm weather.

Wrinkle Resistance: Knitted fabrics exhibit excellent wrinkle recovery due to the yarn’s ability to adapt to external forces and quickly return to its original shape once the force is removed. This characteristic ensures that knitted garments maintain a smooth and neat appearance even after wear or storage.

Common knitted fabrics:

Sweatshirt Fabric:

Sweatshirt fabric is characterized by a continuous circular knit structure with distinct front and back lines. It features a smooth surface, fine texture, and a soft hand feel. This fabric exhibits good stretch in both the longitudinal and transverse directions, with greater transverse extensibility. While offering good moisture absorption and breathability, it may experience pilling and occasional coil skewing.

Mesh Fabric:

Mesh fabric is crafted using a combination of continuous knit and tuck stitches, with variations such as 4-mold, 6-mold, and 8-mold beads, as well as twill and sports beads. Some types may incorporate spandex for enhanced stretch and recovery.

Fleece Fabric:

Fleece fabric, also known as French Terry or fleece after brushing, is predominantly produced using displaced yarn, resulting in a textured surface. It is also referred to as displacement or terry cloth, with some regions calling it fish scale cloth due to its terry-like appearance. This fabric comes in various weights, typically ranging from 190g/m2 to 350g/m2.

Ribbed Fabric:

Ribbed knitted fabric features a pattern where a single yarn forms alternating coils on the front and back. It shares characteristics with plain fabric, including stretch and recovery, while offering greater elasticity. Variants such as 1x1 and 2x2 rib structures are distinguishable due to their specific patterns.

Ponte de Roma Fabric:

Ponte de Roma, also known as Roman cloth or chicken beating cloth, is a weft-knitted fabric produced on a double-sided circular machine. It exhibits a four-way stretch and a slightly irregular horizontal bar texture. This fabric offers good elasticity in both horizontal and vertical directions, making it suitable for close-fitting garments with breathable, soft, and comfortable properties.