Interesting facts - knitted fabric
WHAT IS KNITTED FABRIC?
The fabrics are actually knitted. Not by hand with knitting needles, of course, as we know it from home. Instead, they are knitted on large, special industrial knitting machines. The stitches can be formed from one or more yarns. Knitted fabrics come in very different thicknesses - from very fine to very coarse.
Examples from our closets include the fine undershirt, the classic T-shirt, the casual sweatshirt and the wintery chunky knit hat.
IMPORTANT FEATURES:
In contrast to woven fabrics, knitted fabrics are always slightly stretchy, even without elastane. However, stretchability can vary greatly within this type of fabric. Both the stitch pattern and the material used play a major role. If elastane is added, the end product becomes elastic.
It is important to note the difference between stretchy and elastic. If a fabric is described as stretchy, this means that the fabric can be pulled apart easily. If you do this several times or even a little more, the fabric will remain stretched.
However, when the term elastic is used, the following is meant: If the fabric is stretched, it can be stretched considerably and springs back to its original position as soon as the tension is released.
JERSEY
light, knitted fabric (e.g. T-shirt fabric)
Use/properties:
Jersey fabrics can be used for classic T-shirts, long sleeves, pyjamas or undershirts. As jersey fabrics usually do not crease much, they are very easy to care for.
Sewing tip:
Jersey fabrics should ideally be sewn using an overlock and coverstitch machine. If this is not possible, elastic stitches such as a zigzag stitch should be used. Elastic thread can also be helpful.
The needle size should be chosen rather low. A size of 70 to 80 is usually the right choice, but you should bear this in mind: A stretch needle should be used for jersey with elastane, whereas a jersey needle or a universal needle should be used for jersey without elastane. We always recommend testing the needle on a sample piece before starting.
In our shop you will find both plain-colored and patterned jersey fabrics in different materials, weight classes, with and without spandex.
SWEAT
medium-weight, knitted fabric
Use/properties:
Sweat fabrics can be used for classic sweatshirts, hoodies and jogging bottoms. The outside is similar to a jersey, the inside is (usually) fluffy and roughened. Overall, sweat fabrics are thicker and heavier than jersey. As sweat fabrics usually do not crease much, they are very easy to care for.
Sewing tip:
Sweat fabrics should ideally be sewn with overlock and coverstitch machines. If you do not have these, elastic stitches such as a zigzag stitch should be used. Elastic thread can also be helpful.
The needle size should be low to medium. Size 80 is suitable for most sweat fabrics. Please note: A universal needle or stretch needle should be used for sweatshirts with elastane, whereas a universal needle or jersey needle should be used for sweatshirts without elastane. We always recommend testing the needle on a sample piece before starting.
In our store you will find both plain-colored and patterned sweat fabrics in different weight classes, with or without spandex.
FRENCH TERRY
medium weight, knitted fabric
Use/properties:
French Terry is also called summer sweat - you could say French Terry is a special form of sweat fabric. French terry is the name given to lightweight sweat fabrics with a non-roughened reverse side. French terry can be used for lighter sweatshirts and jogging pants. As French Terry fabrics usually do not crease much, they are very easy to care for.
French Terry Brushed is also available in our store. The reverse side of these fabrics is brushed, making them significantly warmer than the classic version.
Sewing tip:
French Terry should ideally be sewn with overlock and coverstitch machines. If this is not possible, elastic stitches such as a zigzag stitch should be used. Elastic thread can also be helpful.
The needle size should be chosen rather low. A needle size of 80 is usually the right choice, but you should bear this in mind: A stretch needle should be used for French terry with elastane, whereas a jersey needle or a universal needle should be used for sweat without elastane. We always recommend testing the needle on a sample piece before starting.
In our store you will find both plain-colored and patterned French terry fabrics in different weight classes, with or without spandex.
