1. Fabric Construction: Knitted Fabric
Fabric Construction – Knitted Fabrics
Fabric Construction:
Knitted Fabric

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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

5. 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.

6. 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.

7. 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.

8. 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.