Fabric Construction: Knitted Fabric Fabric Construction – Knitted Fabrics Fabric Construction: Knitted Fabric

Knitted fabrics Fabric Construction – Knitted Fabrics Knitted fabrics are made of interlocking loops. The loops run through the fabric and hold it together, if the loops are broken then the fabric will come apart. There are two types of knitted fabric, weft knit and warp knit.

Weft knit Fabric Construction – Knitted Fabrics In weft knitting, the loops run horizontally across the fabric and interlock with the rows above and below. Facts about weft knitting are: It can be done by hand or by machine This typed of knit can unravel and form a ladder. Circular machines are popular in factories, they are faster and take up less room. Characteristics of weft knit Fabrics have high elasticity and stretch Loops trap air and retain heat There are two sides to the fabric that are easily identifiable. Fabric unravels and ladders when pulled or cut Fabric can lose its shape very easily Interlocking, horizontal loops.

Weft knitted fabrics Fabric Construction – Knitted Fabrics Types of weft knitted fabrics Single jersey – used for t-shirts, sweaters Rib fabric - socks Interlock-sportswear Fake fir – fur coats, trimmings Pique – sports shirts Single jersey Fake fur Interlock Rib Pique

Warp knit Fabric Construction – Knitted Fabrics Warp knitting is done on a machine. The loops still interlock, but they run the length of the fabric and are linked side by side. Warp knit: Is done by machine. Is much faster to produce than weft knitting. Characteristics of warp knit Hard to unravel, so less likely to ladder. Easier to sew than weft knit. Is elastic, but keeps its shape better than weft knit. Is more expensive to make because the machine is complex to set up. Interlocking, vertical loops.

Warp knitted fabrics Fabric Construction – Knitted Fabrics Types of warp knitted fabrics Lock knit (terry) furnishing fabrics/sheets. Velour – leisure and sportswear, such as swimming costumes. Lace and net – bridal wear, trimmings. Fleece Lock knit Fleece Velour Lace and net Fleece is a warp knitted fabric. It has extra yarns layered into it and is then brushed to produce a soft raised surface. It is usually made of polyester, and can double faced with a nap on both sides, or single faced.

New technology Fabric Construction – Knitted Fabrics CAD CAM Designers can now design on a computer first and trial their designs in virtual 3D on a computer screen before making. They can then make changes using a computer, and be really creative in what they design. This is an artificial heart valve with a knitted outer . This helps rapid tissue growth around the new valve. Advances in technology: Heart valves are now being made with a knitted polyester outer which helps the patient’s tissue grow around the new valve. Garments with no seams are now becoming more commonplace – especially sportswear and underwear. This technology minimises wastage. Seamless sportswear, for cycling and tennis – no uncomfortable rubbing from seams.

Key facts to remember The exam: Fabric Construction – Knitted Fabrics Key words: Weft knit Warp knit Interlocking Loops Key facts to remember Knitted fabrics are made by warp and weft knitting Their main qualities are warmth and elasticity. They can now be created and seen in ‘virtual mode’ using CAD and CAM before they are actually manufactured. Most garments can be made using knitted fabrics. The exam: Make sure that you can recognise and label a knitted fabric. Remember that weft knitting is left to right (like hand knitting). Warp knitting is up and down.