A Quick Guide to Knit Fabrics

A Quick Guide to Knit Fabrics

If you’re new to sewing (or just new to knits), it can be overwhelming to understand the differences between each type of fabric - especially online. Here is a quick overview of each of the fabrics we carry. 

Jersey

This is the most common type of knit fabric and is similar to stockinette stitch in hand knitting. Jersey fabric usually contains some spandex to augment its natural stretch and improve recovery (how well the fabric returns to its original size after stretching), but a 100% cotton jersey will still have plenty of stretch.

Most jerseys are light to medium weight and are suitable for tshirts, dresses, leggings and anything else that needs a bit of stretch and a fluid shape.

Interlock

 

Interlock is made with two layers of thread knit back to back, so the right and wrong side look the same. Since it’s essentially two layers, interlock is usually thick and stable, making it a great choice for newer sewists since it’s easy to sew. The doubled nature of the threads can make it less naturally stretchy than jersey, so if you’re looking for a fabric with a lot of stretch make sure your interlock has added spandex.

French Terry

When you hear “terry,” you might be thinking about bath towels. French terry is not your typical bath towel material! This fabric has a smooth knit side and larger, soft loops on the other. Those large loops give French terry a thick, plush hand and super soft feel against the skin.

French terry comes in many different weights, with the heaviest looking and feeling like your favorite cozy sweatshirt. The See You At Six French terry we carry is on the lighter end of the spectrum and is great for light sweatshirts and bodysuits alike.

Rib

Many of our bundles incorporate Rib Knit, a knit fabric you might recognize as the cuffs, neckbands and waistbands on the clothes already in your kiddo’s drawers. If you’ve ever knit by hand, you may have experience knitting one or two knit stitches followed by one or two purl stitches to create a ribbed texture. This technique creates a naturally stretchy material that easily holds sweatshirt sleeves close to the wrist and neck holes round and unwobbly.

 

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