DEFINITION AND PROPERTIES OF KNITTING

Knitting is one of the most important production techniques of the textile industry. Thanks to its flexible and comfortable structure, it has a wide range of uses from daily wear to sportswear. The quality of knitted fabrics can vary depending on the intended use, so choosing the right yarn and technique is crucial.

What is Knitting?

Knitting is the process of bringing yarns together in loops to form fabric. This technique is done by interweaving yarns loop by loop, resulting in stretchy, soft and breathable fabrics. Knitted fabrics can be produced both by hand knitting and machine knitting.

Knitting Techniques

The knitting process is carried out using different techniques. There are two commonly used techniques:

  1. Plain Knitting (Knitwear): It is obtained by knitting the loops in a straight row. Knitwear fabrics are more suitable for clothes worn in cold weather and are widely used in garments such as sweaters and cardigans that need to be flexible.
  2. Circular Knitting: It is created by knitting the loops in a circular pattern. This technique is often used in the production of fabrics for clothing such as t-shirts, sweatshirts and tracksuits. It is possible to obtain fabrics with different patterns and textures suitable for four seasons.

Knitted Fabric Types

Knitted fabrics are divided into several categories according to the type of yarn used and the knitting technique:

  1. Cotton Knitted Fabrics: Soft, breathable fabrics made from natural materials. It is widely used in products such as T-shirts and underwear.
  2. Synthetic Knitted Fabrics: Produced from synthetic yarns such as nylon and polyester. Durable and flexible, it is preferred for sportswear and active wear.
  3. Blend Knitted Fabrics: It is obtained by mixing natural and synthetic yarns. It offers both the comfort of natural yarns and the durability of synthetic yarns.

Uses of Knitted Fabrics

Knitted fabrics have a wide range of uses in the textile industry:

  • Casual Wear: Used in comfortable and flexible garments such as T-shirts, sweaters and dresses.
  • Sportswear It is preferred in sportswear thanks to its breathable and flexible structure.
  • Underwear It is used in underwear products with its soft and comfortable structure.
  • Home Textiles: It is also found in home textile products such as blankets, pillowcases and towels.